Kaniwhaniwha Caves

Useful Information

Location:	Kaniwhaniwha car park, 573/615 Limeworks Loop Road, Karamu 3285. (-37.940130, 175.069610)
Open:	no restrictions. [2022]
Fee:	free. [2022]
Classification:	Karst cave
Light:	bring torch
Dimension:	L=20 m.
Guided tours:	self guided, L=7 km, D=2.5 h.
Photography:	allowed
Accessibility:	no
Bibliography:
Address:	Kaniwhaniwha Caves, Te Rapa Office, 5 Northway St, Te Rapa, Hamilton 3200, Tel: +64-7-850-8378. E-mail: Kaniwhaniwha Reserve, 573/615 Limeworks Loop Road, Karamu 3285, Tel: +64-7-858-1000.
As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then. Please check rates and details directly with the companies in question if you need more recent info.

History

Description

The Kaniwhaniwha Caves Walk has its emphasis on walk, not on caves. Of course, it is impossible to walk any distance in this area without seeing an abundance of karst features, and so this nice walk is definitely worthwhile. However, if you expect lots natural caves you might be a little disappointed. There are actually two small caves, the main 20 m long cave which you can walk through except for a short crawl section, and the smaller cave which is tight and narrow. The trail also offers swimming and picnicking opportunities. Undoubtedly much fun for children.

The caves are not big or long, but as they require crawling we strongly recommend helmet with headlamp, appropriate shoes and clothes, probably kneepads and gloves.

The Nikau Walk track starts from the Kaniwhaniwha car park aka Nikau Walk Carpark on Limeworks Loop Road. From here its 2 km walk along Kaniwhaniwha river, until finally the forest is reached. Along the stream the loop walk is lush with nikau palms and tree ferns. Some parts are on elevated trails or bridges. When the Bell Track branches off on the right take this track to the Kaniwhaniwha Caves Walk. After the short loop you return on Bell Track to Nikau Walk, and now you can either return or walk the rest of Nikau Walk. The track is ideal for family cycling but with bike you must follow directional signs around the loop track.