Cave Stream Scenic Reserve

The underground wonderland known as the Cave Stream is one of the most spectacular natural features in the Canterbury region.

This region is known as an ancient pathway and a flax backpack, found on a ridge above the reserve (and now in the Canterbury Museum), is estimated to be 500 years old.

Within the 16ha reserve there are striking limestone cliffs, gorges and boulder outcrops as well as a few different walking options. Some short walks lead to the cave entrance and one goes right through – the 594m-long limestone cave is high enough for walkers to traverse its entire length. While it is not a difficult walk, heed the warnings and be prepared – people have died in this cave.

There are some interesting local inhabitants to meet along the way. Eels are known to travel up the stream, sometimes by hanging on to the clothing of cavers. These young long fin eels (elvers) migrate up the Waimakariri and Broken rivers between July and December. If they hitch a ride the experience has been described as “disconcerting” but they are harmless and, as our only native species and under threat, they are precious.

Another interesting local is the cave harvestman spider, which is a rare species (found only in this cave and on the West Coast) that lives in the ‘dark zone' of the cave's upper reaches. Cavers are asked to stick to the stream bed to leave the habitat of this threatened invertebrate alone.

The walk through the cave isn't suitable for young children but the reserve is a wonderful spot for a picnic. They'll have fun trying to spot eels and swimming in the always-icy but beautifully clear Broken River close to the cave.

Cave Stream Scenic Reserve is located 40 minutes south of Arthur's Pass on State Highway 73. The car park is off SH 73 between the Broken River Road bridge and the entrance to Craigieburn Forest Park. No camping.