Ruakuri walk
Track category
Short walk
Time:
45 min return
Distance:
1 km
Description
Ruakuri bushwalk
A real highlight of the Waitomo area, this spectacular loop walk is a must. Ruakuri Caves and Bush Scenic Reserve contains classic limestone outcrops and is also a place of strong spiritual and cultural significance to Maori.
The walk loops through a forest-covered gorge alongside the Waitomo Stream, passing through small caves along the way. The highlight of the walk is the Ruakuri Natural Tunnel, a spectacular high-ceiling cave with the Waitomo Stream flowing into it. The entrance to the viewing platform inside the cave is dark so take care when walking down the steps. As your eyes adjust to the darkness, you can see large speleothems (stalactites and stalagmites) in the cave.
Glowworms illuminate the banks of the track at night. The best place to see them is at either side of the main bridge, but please don't touch as this will destroy them. Be sure to take a torch to help you negotiate the steps and rocky outcrops.
Guided tours are available through Aranui and Ruakuri Caves.
View larger map to print (JPG, 89K)
Ruakuri Walk corresponds to #4 on the map.
Getting there
4 km from Waitomo Village, on Tumutumu Road.
Activities
Bird and wildlife watching
Specialist activities
Bird and wildlife watching
A number of native birds fly through the scenic reserve, around the car park, and around the track.
More commonly seen forest birds include kereru (native wood pigeon), tui, piwakawaka (fantail) and tauhou (wax eye). Karearea (New Zealand falcon) are often seen and heard from the car park.
Be sure to take a pair of binoculars and a camera with you.
Specialist activities: Limestone and karst appreciation
Dolines (enclosed depressions), karren (fluted outcrops), arches tunnels and caves are collectively known as karst. This special landscape is a feature of Waitomo, with the Waitomo Caves world famous for their beauty and abundance of glow worms (arachnocampa luminosa).
Plan and prepare
There is a small general store at Waitomo where supplies may be bought.
Fill up your vehicle with fuel at Otorohanga, Piopio or Te Kuiti as there are no service stations from Waitomo west.
Dress for the weather and be prepared for it to change.
Before you go into the outdoors, tell someone your plans and leave a date to raise the alarm if you haven't returned. To do this, use the New Zealand Outdoors Intentions process on the AdventureSmart website. It is endorsed by New Zealand's search and rescue agencies and provides three simple options to tell someone you trust the details about your trip.
Guides and commercial tourism providers