Waitomo Caves
- National Park
143 km (89 miles)
Approximately 1.75 hours
Road Conditions: State Highway
The Waitomo Caves region is famous for its subterranean splendour. Beneath the surface of this ancient limestone region is a series of vast cave systems decorated with stalactites, stalagmites and glow-worms. Some caves open to the public, and are easy to walk through, others require specialised caving equipment.
After the rural town of Te Kuiti, which hosts NZ sheep shearing championships each year, you’ll drive through the area of farmland known as the ‘King Country’. Taumaranui, on the edge of the Whanganui River, is a good place for a break.
The terrain becomes more volcanic in appearance as you approach National Park Village, a small settlement well positioned for those who want to explore the Tongariro National Park. All three volcanic peaks can be seen from here.
New Zealand’s first national park, Tongariro was gifted to the New Zealand people in 1887 by the Ngati Tuwaretoa tribe and is now a World Heritage area. The Tongariro Crossing is regarded as one of the best one-day walks in the world.
Scenic Highlights
The 42 Traverse
If you're reasonably fit and enjoy mountain biking, you'll love this all-day ride through mountain wilderness.
Lake Rotoaira and Lake Otamangakau
Pause at these lakes to cast for trout, kayak for fun or capture images of distant volcanic mountains.
Waitomo Caves
Wai means water, tomo means hole. Put them together and you have the perfect name for a region that's packed with limestone caves.
Tongariro Northern Circuit
If you're fascinated by volcanoes, both dormant and active, make this multi-day walk your next great hiking challenge.
Activities
Ruapehu
Kayaking – Fresh Water (8),
Walking/Trekking (5)
Waikato
Caving (8),
Rafting (2)
Tour and Sightseeing
Waikato
Caving (2)
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