Glittering rooms below the Earth
There is nowhere like Waitomo Caves to see and experience the true subterranean beauty of the Earth. The Caves were created more than 30 million years ago and offer some of the country’s best natural history and beauty.
Where? What is it?
The Waitomo Caves, in the North King Country, lets you explore the real underworld of New Zealand. It’s a twoand-a-half hour drive from Auckland along SH1 and SH39. Waitomo in Maori translates to ’’water which flows into a hole in the ground’’, and comprises a number of underground caving networks.
Why go?
Entering the Waitomo Caves is a real underground adventure - whether it’s on foot, abseiling through a hole in the ground, or plunging butt-first in to the water. Under the Earth’s surface, chambers of pure white limestone, stalactites and stalagmites are illuminated by glow worms. Almost every corner of the cave system’s roofs and walls are adorned with the Earth’s sparkling creations coloured in pale brown, pink and white. Water flowing through the caverns for millions of years has built a series of chambers and cathedrals where even a choir and 600 people can enjoy the natural wonders of the Earth. The labyrinth of dark tunnels are lined with inky black water, where the glow worms’ luminescent shine reflects like a night sky. The Waitomo region hosts sightseeing and tourist attractions where adventure is always at hand. It’s worth taking a few days to explore the whole region.
Insider tip
Get to know the locals, especially the local kaumatua. They are the storehouses of tribal knowledge, know the history behind every scratch and surface of Waitomo. Locals can tell you the stories of the haunted hotel, give you directions and tell you where the best local beer is brewed (Curly’s Bar). They can even tell you about the best swimming spots in the region (the old quarry, 1638 Oparure Rd).
On the way/near by?
It’s definitely worth heading out of Waitomo, 45 minutes up Te Anga Rd to The Marokopa Falls, the Piripiri Cave and the Mangapohue Natural Bridge. Walk through the native bush to see the remains of an ancient cave system and 25-million-year-old fossils exposed in the rocky outcrops at the natural bridge. The Marokopa Falls have been described as one of the best in the country.
The labyrinth of dark tunnels are lined with inky black water, where the glow worms' luminescent shine reflects like a night sky.
How much?
Cave tours and adventures range from $49 upwards, from a range of tour companies and organisations.
Best time to go?
The caves are underground so you can go any time of the year. The temperature inside ranges from 12-14C year round and the water temperature doesn’t change a whole lot either. Although winter always has the best money-saving deals, spring is a good time to experience the region’s other activities.