Track to the caves

The track to the limestone cave follows a poled route over private farmland. Keep to the poled route as this is private property.

The track is not formed and it passes through open farmland, which can be wet, muddy and slippery. Some sections of the track are narrow and rutted. There are sometimes cattle or sheep on the track, which you would need to walk around.

The first part of the track leads up a steep hill, which requires a good level of fitness. Once past the first steep section, there are magnificent views of the coast. On clear days you can see as far as Mahia.

Inside the caves

At the caves, steps lead into the main cavern, which is around 40 m long. The floor of the cave is very muddy and slippery. There is a section covered with water, generally up to ankle deep in normal conditions, though it rises during/after heavy rain. We recommend wearing sturdy shoes with good grip that you don’t mind getting dirty and wet.

There are two side passages, approximately 3 m above the floor of the main cavern, which are reached by ladders. Take care getting from the ladders to the side caves, as there is a gap with a steep drop. There are tight squeezes in the side caves.

Carrying a torch per person is essential, plus spare batteries. We recommend wearing a headtorch, to keep your hands free for the ladders and handrail. A helmet/hard hat is useful, as the roof is low in places.

The walking time listed is the time to and from the cave entrance. Plan extra time to explore the cave.

This reserve is 40 km from Wairoa. Turn off SH2 onto Mangaone Road, approximately 4 km north of Nuhaka or 5 km south of Mōrere Springs. Continue for 6 km up the narrow, winding and unsealed Mangaone Road.

The track is signposted on the roadside, where you can park your vehicle on a grassed area.

Be aware that logging trucks use Mangaone Road.

Come prepared with torches and good footwear

These caves are suitable for people without caving experience, as long as they take care and carry the right equipment. 

We reccommend these items for your cave trip:

• a head torch for each person, plus spare batteries. Do not rely on your phone torch.
• sturdy footwear with good grip, such as tramping boots or hiking shoes. Expect to get muddy and wet. 
• helmet or hard hat. 

The entrance to the caverns is narrow, slippery and requires you to step over a small hole. The main cavern is usually wet and muddy.

Supervise children carefully

Children must be supervised at all times. There are slippery surfaces, 3 m ladders, tight squeezes and steep drops in the cave. Getting from the ladders into the side caves requires supervision and hands-on help from caregivers, as there is a gap between the ladders and the caves. It will not be suitable for all ages.

Take care and use your judgement about whether it is suitable for your child.

Look after the cave

It took thousands of years for the cave features (like stalactites and stalagmites) to form. They are easily broken. Even the oils on your hands can damage them. Do not touch or remove them. Never write or put graffiti on the cave walls or formations.

All living things and fossils in the cave are protected. Leave them where they are.

Stay on the track

The track passes over private farmland – stick to the track and leave gates as you find them. There are also limestone bluffs and holes in the area, so following the track will keep you away from steep drop-offs.