Waipu Caves

The Waipu Caves track is located on Waipu Caves Road, south of Whangarei near Waipu, off State Highway One. Take Shoemaker Road from Waipu or Springfield Road from the north to get to Waipu Caves Road from SH1. This cave ranks fith on our list of the most beautiful caves in New Zealand.

The Waipu Caves area has weathered rocks and a karst / limestone setting. The name "karst" refers to a type of topography that is characterized by closed depressions or sinkholes, caves, and subsurface drainage that is created over limestone, dolomite, or gypsum by rock solution. Because karst surface formations provide a diversity of habitats for plant species that are restricted to or prefer growing on calcareous soils, karst sites have significant natural heritage significance. They also serve as a safe haven for species that were once more widely distributed across the terrain.

Caves provide habitat or shelter for a variety of animal species that rely on or have adapted to dark, chilly, wet environments with little daily variations in varying degrees. Bats, birds, amphibians, and reptiles' bones are frequently found in caves. Fossil invertebrates, frequently of previously unknown or locally extinct species, can also be found in caves.

Location: Waipu 0582, New Zealand

Opening time: All day

Prices: Free