Glow Worm Cave & Puketi Kauri Forest

OVERVIEW

Visit thrilling natural wonders like a cavern illuminated by glowworms and a forest of giant kauri trees, and see several man-made attractions, too. Kawiti Caves contains plenty of bizarre and impressive stalagmites and stalactites, but its most wondrous sight is the galaxy of blue-green lights given off by thousands of tiny glowworms attached to the inky-black ceiling. It’s a spectacular sight and your guide will share fascinating facts about the lifecycle of these famous little New Zealand residents. The denizens of Puketi Forest are a bit larger – like, say, 150 feet tall and up to 2,000 years old. Rivaling the California redwood in height and girth, thousands of mighty kauri trees once cloaked the Bay of Islands. The reserve you’ll tour is one of the last protected areas where they still stand, and the boardwalk through the forest allows visitors to admire these gargantuan wonders up-close without damaging their sensitive roots. A side trip to colorful Kawakawa adds levity to the day, with its train tracks running down the main street and whimsical public restrooms designed by an Austrian artist.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a guided tour of Kawiti Caves and see the brilliant light show created by thousands of tiny glowworms attached to cavern ceiling.
• Stroll along a boardwalk path through the towering kauri trees of Puketi Forest reserve.
• Visit Kawakawa, where the vintage railroad runs through downtown and the public restrooms are… colorful.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing; include a light jacket or sweater.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.