Ruakuri Walk

One of the best things to do in Waitomo, this walk features an impressive forest gorge, limestone formations, bridges and a pretty stream.

Where is it?

Four kilometres from Waitomo Village, turn left at the roundabout into Tumutumu Rd, then head to the well sign-posted Ruakuri car park.

Terrain

Well-maintained bush paths, some steps.

Good to know

Take a torch and do this walk at night when you’ll see glowworms along the banks.

Track Overview

Setting off from the car park, follow the stream and admire the amazing limestone walls before descending to the trail known as Ruakuri Natural Bridge Walkway. Walk to a platform that reaches out into a large cavern-like tunnel where you can search for stalactites and stalagmites.

If you want to make the walk longer, start the trail in the Waitomo Village and go along the 3.3km Waitomo Walkway.

Look for a variety of native birds including tūī, pīwakawaka/fantail and kererū, the native wood pigeon.

Above ground in Waitomo

Once you’ve found what’s lurking beneath Waitomo, resurface for some above-ground exploration. Mangapohue Natural Bridge is 30-minutes west of Waitomo village and features a 17m-high natural arch over Mangapohue Stream. Allow 20-minutes to walk the 700m loop.

Need to know

NO DOGS: This is a kiwi area.

TIME & DISTANCE: 45min loop; 1km

FITNESS: Easy fitness required

TERRAIN: Easy walking

Glowworms at Waitomo Caves © www.hamiltonwaikato.com

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Main Image: Exploring the caves in Waitomo © Discover Waitomo