Additional Information

Our guides are expertly trained for the tours they run and place your safety as paramount. They are trained and practiced in emergency procedures and evacuations and have current advanced Outdoor First Aid Certificates.

Ruakuri has displays of glowworms and is filled with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. Points of interest include softly folding shawl-like formations (formed by flowing rivers) and even fossilised seashells, which indicate how the caves were once part of the seabed. Major features include Holdens Cavern, named after James Holden who first opened the cave to the public, The Drum Passage, The Pretties, and The Ghost Passage.

Ruakuri has always been a spiritual place for local Maori, who, amongst other things, originally used the cave as a sacred burial ground (or wahi tapu). The original public entrance to the cave went right through the burial ground but the new spiral entrance ensures todays visitors do not disturb this sacred place.

• Please do not touch formations. Stalactites and stalagmites take a long time to form. They are easily discoloured by people touching them and the more fragile formations can break. Please help us protect the beauty of the cave.
• To protect the cave atmosphere and for the enjoyment and consideration of others, we ask that you do not smoke in the cave.
• Photography and video are permitted in selected areas of the cave.