Unveiling the Past: The History of Three Iconic Waitomo Caves

The Waitomo region in New Zealand is famous for its spectacular caves, each with its own unique history and character. For holiday travellers, exploring these caves offers more than just a visual feast; it’s an opportunity to delve into the rich history that has shaped these natural wonders. In this blog, we’ll take a brief journey through time to uncover the stories behind three of Waitomo's most iconic caves: Ruakuri Cave, Aranui Cave, and the Waitomo Glowworm Cave.

Ruakuri Cave: The Cave of Dogs

Ruakuri Cave, the longest underground walking tour in New Zealand, has a fascinating history that dates back over 500 years. The name "Ruakuri" translates to "den of dogs" in Maori, and according to legend, the cave was discovered by a Maori hunter who stumbled upon a pack of wild dogs living near its entrance.

The cave has been a significant site for the local Maori people for centuries, serving as a burial ground and a place of spiritual importance. However, it wasn’t until 1904 that the cave was opened to the public by James Holden, a local farmer who recognised its potential as a tourist attraction. Ruakuri Cave remained a popular destination until the entrance was closed in 1988 due to land ownership issues. After nearly two decades, a new entrance was constructed, and the cave was reopened in 2005, allowing visitors to once again experience its stunning limestone formations, underground rivers, and sparkling glowworms.

Today, Ruakuri Cave is renowned for its dramatic spiral entrance and the intricate beauty of its interior. The guided tours provide an in-depth look at the cave’s history, its geological features, and the cultural significance it holds for the local Maori community.

Aranui Cave: The Hidden Gem

Aranui Cave, often referred to as the hidden gem of Waitomo, is smaller and more intimate than its counterparts, but it’s no less impressive. Discovered in 1910 by Ruruku Aranui, a local Maori, the cave was named in his honour. The discovery was purely accidental—Aranui stumbled upon the cave while hunting wild pigs in the dense forest above Waitomo.

Unlike the other caves in the region, Aranui Cave does not have an underground river or glowworms. Instead, it’s celebrated for its spectacular formations of stalactites and stalagmites, which have been formed over millions of years. The cave’s interior is a wonderland of delicate limestone formations, with a range of colours and textures that create a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

The cave was opened to the public shortly after its discovery, and it has remained a favourite among visitors who appreciate its tranquility and the close-up experience it offers. Aranui Cave’s compact size means that guided tours are intimate, allowing travellers to fully immerse themselves in the cave’s natural beauty and the history that surrounds it.

Waitomo Glowworm Cave: The Starry Night Underground

The Waitomo Glowworm Cave is perhaps the most famous of all the caves in the region, and its history is as enchanting as the glowing spectacle it offers. The cave was first explored in 1887 by local Maori Chief Tane Tinorau and English surveyor Fred Mace. Using only a raft and candles, the duo ventured into the dark, discovering a dazzling display of glowworms illuminating the cave’s ceiling like a starry night sky.

Chief Tane Tinorau and his wife Huti later opened the cave to the public in 1889, initially guiding visitors themselves. The cave quickly gained international fame for its unique beauty, drawing travellers from around the world. In 1906, the administration of the cave was taken over by the New Zealand government, but in a historic move, the land was returned to the descendants of Chief Tane Tinorau in 1989.

Today, visitors can enjoy guided boat tours through the cave, gliding silently beneath the glowworms that continue to captivate and inspire awe. The history of the Waitomo Glowworm Cave is a testament to the enduring connection between the land, its people, and the natural wonders that define the region.

Reflections:

The history of Ruakuri Cave, Aranui Cave, and the Waitomo Glowworm Cave is deeply intertwined with the culture and traditions of the local Maori people, as well as the natural history of the land itself. As you explore these incredible caves, take a moment to reflect on the stories that have shaped them over the centuries. Each cave offers a unique glimpse into the past, making your visit to Waitomo not just a journey through stunning landscapes, but a journey through time itself.