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Waipū Caves Track
Where is it?
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40 minutes south of Whangarei, or 25 minutes north of Waipū Beach off SH1 on Waipū Caves Rd.
Terrain
The caves are wet, slippery and a torch and suitable footwear are a must. The track itself is not always well formed and can be muddy.
Need to Know
No dogs, unless you have a DOC permit
TIME & DISTANCE: Approximately 1.5hr return; 2km one way (walk only, not including cave exploration)
FITNESS: Basic fitness, suitable for all ages
TERRAIN: Steep in parts
Track Overview
The Waipū Caves Track is a walk of two halves. It begins at the mouth of the Waipū Caves which are mere steps from the car park and will beckon curious types inside. Entry to this three-cave system is free but completely at your own risk. There are no guided tracks and wading through mud and water is expected. Inside there are stalactites, stalagmites, a surreal network of limestone shapes and best of all, a metropolis of glowworms. Follow the underground stream (unsuitable in winter as there will be too much water), creep between low rocks, narrow walls and venture as far as you can.
It is possible to emerge 175m downstream, but most visitors scramble out the way they came. From here you can embark on the actual Waipū Cave Track which climbs steeply out of the valley across open farmland. There are no further caves to explore but follow the orange flags and 45 minutes later you’ll reach the ridgeline. Panoramic views stretch across the Whangārei Harbour to Bream Head and as far out as the Hen and Chicken Islands.
Waipū Caves
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