Caving & Underground 

Discover the mysterious and breathtaking underground world of Aotearoa with Aotearoa Adventures. From stunning glowworm caves to challenging subterranean hikes, New Zealand offers unique caving experiences for every adventurer. Explore our guide to the best spots, safety tips, and what makes caving here so special.

Kia ora! what makes caving in aotearoa so unique compared to anywhere else?

Aotearoa's caving experiences are uniquely shaped by its geological history and indigenous culture. The abundance of limestone formations, sculpted over millennia by water and seismic activity, creates intricate cave systems adorned with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and glowworms (Titiwai). What sets these caves apart is not just their beauty but also the cultural significance they hold for Māori, who have long revered them as sacred places. Additionally, New Zealand's commitment to conservation ensures that these natural wonders are preserved for future generations.

What kind of person would enjoy a caving or underground adventure here?

If you're the kind of person who gets stoked by venturing into the unknown, loves a bit of adventure, and appreciates natural beauty in its rawest form, then you'll absolutely froth a caving adventure in Aotearoa. Whether you're a seasoned spelunker or a newbie keen to explore, the thrill of discovering hidden chambers, navigating narrow passages, and witnessing the magical glow of Titiwai is bound to get your adrenaline pumping. It's perfect for those who enjoy pushing their boundaries, connecting with nature on a deeper level, and creating unforgettable memories.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves — Gentle show cave

Picture drifting under a galaxy of blue-green pinpricks while the guide hushes the boat and the whole group holds its breath. That “starry sky” isn’t the night—it’s thousands of glowworms clinging to the ceiling of Waitomo’s limestone caverns. Walkways and a short boat ride make this the most accessible underground wow in the country.

  • Why it’s great: Zero fitness required; huge glowworm displays; iconic NZ experience.
  • Best for: Families, first-timers, rainy-day magic.
  • Logistics: Guided tours only; timed departures; combine with nearby Ruakuri/Aranui for a fuller day.
  • What to bring: Warm layer (caves sit ~12–14°C), closed shoes, camera for the walk sections (no flash/bright lights in glowworm areas).
  • Good to know: Stay quiet and keep lights low—noise and bright beams make the glowworms dim or “switch off.”

Black Water Rafting (Ruakuri/Tomo) — Waitomo (abseil + tubing)

Now take the glowworm dream and add adrenaline. You’ll zip into a wetsuit, clip a harness, and either abseil or climb down into a stream cave. From there it’s headlamps on, leap into a black inner tube, and float beneath glittering ceilings with the occasional scramble, squeeze, or zipline in the dark. It’s part caving, part canyoning, all grins.

  • Why it’s great: Adventure + glowworms; safe, guided, and ridiculously memorable.
  • Pick your poison:
    • Intro tubing (no abseil): gentle floats with a few fun jumps.
    • Big trip (abseil/zipline): 30–35 m abseil, underground zip, tubing, climbs.
  • Skill/fitness: Confident in water; okay with heights and tight spaces. Guides teach everything technical.
  • Gear provided: Wetsuit, socks/boots, helmet, light, harness. Bring swimwear, towel, dry clothes.
  • Season & safety: Year-round but weather dependent—heavy rain can cancel (rising water). Trust the guide call.

Charleston Cave Rafting — West Coast (quieter, adventurous)

West Coast limestone, ancient rainforest, and far fewer people. You’ll take a tiny train through bush, hike to a cave entrance, then wander decorated chambers—stalactites, shawls, flowstone—before inflating tubes and floating a silent underground river under dense constellations of glowworms. It’s intimate, eerie, and beautiful, with that “off-the-beaten-path” vibe.

  • Why it’s great: Big formations + glowworms + tubing, minus crowds; real sense of exploration.
  • Skill/fitness: Comfortable walking on uneven ground; confident in cool water.
  • Logistics: Guided only; half-day to full-day trips from Charleston (between Westport & Punakaiki).
  • What to bring: Warm base layer for under the wetsuit, thick socks for after, snack.
  • West Coast note: Trips are weather/river-level dependent—flex your day if the forecast turns.

Ōpārara Arches — Karamea (scenic limestone)

Not a cave tour so much as a limestone wonderland you can stroll through. The Moria Gate and Ōpārara Arch are cathedral-sized openings carved by tea-coloured rivers under dripping forest. Sunbeams slant in, ferns frame the entrances, and you’ll get that “lost world” feeling without going fully underground.

  • Why it’s great: Zero technical faff; gigantic arches; moody West Coast rainforest.
  • Access: Drive north of Karamea to the Ōpārara Basin; well-formed tracks to each arch.
  • Time on foot: 20–45 mins per arch; allow 2–3 hours for the area.
  • What to bring: Rain layer (showers come and go), grippy shoes, sandfly repellent.
  • Care: Stay on track and obey closures—fragile cave fauna live here.

Cave Stream — Castle Hill, Canterbury (low-flow only, self-guide with care)

A short, committing stream cave that feels like an honest mini-expedition. You wade (and sometimes swim) up a 594-m limestone tunnel, bracing against the current, with smooth walls, pools, and one short waterfall climb near the end. In low flow it’s magic; in high flow it’s dangerous. Treat the weather and water levels with full respect.

  • Why it’s great: DIY sense of achievement; beautiful sculpted passages; fast, fun outing.
  • Standard route: Enter at the downstream (lower) entrance and travel upstream to the large upper entrance.
  • Absolutely required: Low flow only (no recent/heavy rain or snowmelt), two headlamps per person (plus spare batteries), helmet, warm non-cotton layers, sturdy shoes. Expect chest-deep pools and cold water.
  • Hazards: Sudden flow rises, slippery boulders, submersion risk, a waterfall step with fixed rungs/chain—turn around if unsure.
  • Smart moves: Tell someone your plan, go with at least one experienced person, keep small kids out, and be prepared to bail if conditions feel sketchy at the entrance.

Safety first, aye?

Before you head underground, remember that safety is paramount. Always check weather conditions, as heavy rain can cause flash flooding in caves. Never enter a cave alone; explore with a buddy or join a guided tour. Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, and bring a reliable light source with backup batteries. Let someone know your plans and expected return time. Be aware of potential hazards such as slippery surfaces, uneven terrain, and wildlife. Respect the environment by not touching formations and leaving no trace of your visit. With these precautions in mind, you're set for an awesome and safe caving adventure!