Added: 02/08/2006 |
Waitomo is an area renowned for limestone cavesWaitomo, in the central North Island, is an area renowned for limestone caves, glowworms, adventure and fun, and is a place not to be missed. The name Waitomo comes from the Maori wai, water and tomo, hole or shaft. Activities centre around a small village called Waitomo Caves (or simply Waitomo) where the Museum of Caves is the focal point.
The Waitomo Caves are located in the southern Waikato region of the North Island of New Zealand, 12 kilometres northwest of Te Kuiti. The town of Waitomo Caves itself has a population of less than 40.
The limestone caverns are a popular tourist destination, as the caves are easily accessible. The main caves are Waitomo Cave, Ruakuri Cave, and Aranui Cave. They are noted for their stalactite and stalagmite displays, and for the presence of glowworms. Glowworm grotto in Waitomo Cave is justifiably regarded as one of the country's most impressive caving spectacles.
The word Waitomo comes from the Maori language wai meaning water and tomo meaning doline or sinkhole; it can be translated to be water passing through a hole.
For over 100 years Waitomo Glowworm Caves have attracted millions of people from all over the world. The glowworm, a small glowing insect no bigger than an average mosquito, has fascinated and intrigued people from all walks of life. The walk-through guided tours of the Glowworm and Aranui caves may seem tame in comparison to the adventure caving trips, but are still well worth doing to see the exceptional beauty of these caves.
The moment you enter this subterranean wonderland you'll discover an ancient underground labyrinth of limestone caves and grottos, and marvel at amazing stalactites and stalagmites - mother nature's decorations created by nature. You?ll experience a boat trip like no other, journeying through the starry expanse of the Glowworm Grotto, while your way is lit by a multitude of tiny glowworm lights.
The Waitomo region is home to three caves that are open to the public: The Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Ruakuri Cave and Aranui Cave...
Waitomo blackwater rafting is an underground adventure, which begins with donning a wetsuit and caver's helmet with a light in front. The other necessary equipment is a black inner tube to keep you afloat through the underground river?s more difficult passages or simply to keep you steady while you gaze in marvel at the limestone formations you see.
The shorter blackwater rafting adventure takes about three hours and includes leaping over a waterfall, sailing through a passageway lit by glow-worms, and generally just having fun floating in the pitch black subterranean environment.
The longer blackwater rafting adventure takes place in other sections of the Ruakuri and additionally includes abseiling (about 30 meters) and a caving expedition. This takes all of six hours.
Both underground adventures end with a hot shower and hot soup. Abseiling training is given for those taking the six-hour blackwater adventure. Entry to the Museum of the Caves is usually included in the blackwater rafting cost. Blackwater rafting bookings may be made at the Museum of the Caves. Book well in advance during the busy summer holiday period.
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