Access

600 m past Waitomo Caves take the first left at the roundabout along Tumutumu Road. The caves are signposted on Ruakuri Road.

Carparks have picnic tables, toilets and information boards.

Track

Maps are posted on the information boards at the entrance. Essentially there are two loops, which are well-signposted. It can be disorienting in the depths but there’s always a way out.

Extensive boardwalks, steps, bridges and platforms weave through the labyrinthine tunnels and clefts between limestone outcrops. The highlight is the viewing platform in the natural tunnel. Take a torch.

Geology

Caves such as this are formed like other limestone caves. The limestone here, as elsewhere, is the compacted remains of a reef system which once lay in shallow warm waters. Subsequent tectonic uplift has resurfaced the rock, which is mainly composed of calcareous matter, derived from the shellfish, fish and coral organisms. Limestone is susceptible to dissolving once water passing through it has an acid makeup, usually derived from absorption of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This percolating groundwater decomposes the limestone, creating fissures and cracks streams can later exploit to form cave systems.

Polynesian History

A member of Taane Tinorau’s war party is said to be the first discoverer of the cave. Whilst foraging and hunting he was attacked by a pack of kuri (wild dogs). He diverted their attention with carnivorous canapé and returned with reinforcements. The dogs were killed, their flesh eaten and their chief adorned with a dog skin cloak. ‘Rua’ means ‘two’.

European History

James Holden first led tourists through in 1904.