Waitomo Caves

Waitomo — "Water Holes"

Beneath the green rolling hills of New Zealand's Waitomo district lies a labyrinth of caves, sinkholes and rivers that invites an exciting journey of discovery. The Waitomo Caves are located roughly twelve kilometres northwest of Te Kuiti and rank among the most popular natural attractions on the North Island. The Māori name for the area derives from the two words "wai" (water) and "tomo" (hole). Underground streams have carved the caves out of the soft limestone over millennia, creating fascinating formations. Some of the subterranean chambers impress with stalactites hanging from the ceilings and stalagmites growing up from the floor. These, too, were formed by water over hundreds of years from layered rock. On the walls, entire colonies of native glowworms illuminate the caves.

Three Impressive Main Caves

The three main caves of the Waitomo Caves are the Waitomo Cave, the Ruakuri Cave and the Aranui Cave. The Waitomo Cave is particularly renowned for the glowworms that live within it. The largest of the three is the Ruakuri Cave. Its name — "cave of the dogs" — derives from a pack of feral dogs said to have lived here. This cave, too, is home to thousands of glowworms and impressive stalactites and stalagmites. From the Ruakuri Cave, discovered in 1904 by James Holden, you can abseil down into the Mangapu Cave, roughly 100 metres below. The smallest cave open to visitors is the Aranui Cave. It lies around two kilometres from the Waitomo Cave and was discovered in 1911 by the Māori Ruruku Aranui. The many stalactites hanging from the ceiling are particularly striking.

Underground Exploration Tours

The dark caves can be explored in a variety of ways. Abseiling and black water rafting promise plenty of action. But the subterranean worlds can also be discovered on a more leisurely boat tour or on foot and by climbing. Such an expedition is well worth it in any case, as there are thousands of glowworms, impressive stalactites and stalagmites and underground waterfalls to marvel at.

Activities Outside the Caves

There is plenty to see and explore above ground too. Numerous walking trails wind through the countryside, past fascinating rock formations and through the species-rich Pureora Forest. The local farm shows, which offer an insight into rural New Zealand life, are also very popular. You can also take a guided horse ride, go on a climbing excursion or visit the Otorohanga Kiwi House to discover New Zealand's rarest birds. The Waitomo Caves Museum introduces you to the history of the region, shaped by Māori culture, farming and the unique natural environment.

By car

The small town of Waitomo is easily reached by road. The nearest larger cities are Auckland (roughly three hours away), Rotorua (about two hours) and Hamilton (approx. one hour).

Coming from Auckland, follow SH1 to Hamilton and change there onto SH3. Follow this to Hangatiki, just south of Otorohanga, where you turn right onto SH37 towards Waitomo. Those arriving from the south are best following SH4 northward until it meets SH3. Then continue on SH3 via Te Kuiti to Hangatiki and turn off towards Waitomo.