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waitomo: general info
· city links
· history
hostels
· tours
· things to do
· read reviews
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WAITOMO
Calling Code: +64 7
Back in 1887, Maori chief Tane Tinorau and European surveyor Fred
Mace chose to ignore Maori legend and explore the depths of the local river cave.
Although no gods were found that day, the two spelunkers were treated to an otherworldly
display of bioluminescent blue, courtesy of thousands of
glowworms. Within a year,
Tinorau opened the cave for a few visitors to experience the ethereal wonder.
One hundred years later, the glowworm population remains stable but the number of tourists has soared to over
half a million each year, putting this miniscule hamlet (pop. 250) squarely on the map.
There are a range of caving activities starting from a foot exploration of the Waitomo cave, with its
aptly named Glowworm Grotto, to other more daring caving trips.
The more sedate will enjoy a bush walk in the Ruakuri Scenic Reserve and a look at the Opapaka Historic Pa Site where you will witness
the last vestiges of a traditional Maori fortress.
If there's a place you've stayed or something you've done, but we haven't listed, review it for us!
 Activities
Black Abyss - raft with the legendary blackwater rafting co
Ultimate Lost World - a true test of yourself
Hostels
Lazy Hedgehog
Kiwipaka YHA - one of the nicer hostels in nz
Nature
Marakopa Falls - a natural bridge and piri piri cave
Photos
City Scapes - pictures of waitomo
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