New Zealand - Waitomo Glowworm Caves


Waitomo is famous for its glowworm caves. The glowworms have bioluminescent tails that glow to attract insects, which get caught in sticky lines hanging down from the glowworm’s perch on the cave ceiling. There are many limestone caves in the Waitomo area, and many tour operators. Some of the tours involve caving, climbing, or tubing (as I did 25 years ago). But we elected for a tamer experience which included two caves: one we walked through, one we floated through on a raft. It really is amazing to see the expanse of tiny lights from the glowworms in what is otherwise total darkness. Comparisons to a starry nighttime sky are both inevitable and appropriate.










Glowworms in a dark cave aren't exactly easy to photograph, but hopefully you get the idea.


The sticky lines. When an unfortunate insect flies into one the glowworm will reel it in like a fishing line.


Another cave resident.


Opening in the cave ceiling.


(photo courtesy of Spellbound Glowworm and Cave Tours)






Exiting a cave.
(photo by Deborah)


Some of the beautiful countryside near the caves.

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