Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Words cannot adequately describe how amazing the glowworm caves are that we toured in Waitomo. We started off at Ruakuri Cave where we walked for 2 hours with a guide looking at the stalactite and stalagmite formations. We then came to the glowworms. These little creature (larvae actually) use their bioluminescence to attract bugs to their silk string webs in the dark caves. The tiny points of light are a vivid aqua blue.  Later they transform into flies for only a few days to mate.

We then headed to a different cave for the boat tour. A river flows into the cave and the ceiling and walls are COVERED with shining glowworms. We were fascinated. Natalie compared them to stars, and the people seated behind us just kept repeating, "This is so special." We felt the same way.

Natalie in the cave. Stalactite above.

Waiting for the boat.

There are old unused mining tracks in this area. They have retrofitted golf carts so people can explore the tracks. This one was in our lobby.

Yup we stayed here. Actually it was a fine motel.