Deep in the depths of the Murchison Mountains in Te Anau are hundreds of glowworms creating a whole other-worldly setting beneath the ground. These glowworm caves are visited by cruising across Lake Te Anau followed by a short walk to the cave’s entrance. The RealNZ experience that takes you here and back is one for the books. Caves carved by powerful waters, a silent hidden grotto and walls of shimmering glowworms. It’s a gem in Fiordland that should be on your must-do list!
The Murchison Mountains is also where the takahē was rediscovered in 1948 after they were thought to be extinct. This mountain range on the edge of Lake Te Anau is a mystical place, very fitting for the Fiordland region.
1. A Te Anau Must-Do
Explore the Te Anau glowworm caves for a memorable experience in Fiordland. Te Anau is the hub for all things adventure in Fiordland. This infectious town is right on the doorstep of Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, the Kepler Track, Doubtful Sound / Patea and so much more. The glowworm caves experience is just over two hours and begins on the shores of Lake Te Anau. Cruise across the South Island’s largest lake and enjoy the views from the open deck. You then make your way to the caves entrance and the Cavern House. Forest flora is all around at this point and you’ll have time to roam the area before or after you’ve visited the caves.
2. The Cavern House
All good things are started by people with a passion. The RealNZ guides are particularly passionate about the area and about sharing their knowledge. The entire experience is immediately elevated thanks to the people at the wheel. The Cavern House is where you’ll find plenty of information donning the walls. Here you get briefed and you begin the short trek to the entrance of the caves.
If you’ve got some more time to spare while in Fiordland, check out the Real Fiordland experience. This includes a Doubtful Sound day cruise, exploring the glowworm caves and a Milford Sound day cruise. What a way to discover Fiordland!
3. The Caves
As you enter the caves you’ll crouch down and make your way through under a large rock overhang. This dramatic entrance sets the scene for the rest of your journey. Water is gushing under the footbridge beneath you and the sound echoes through the caves. Be sure to take care on the wet steps and walkway. These caves are considered young, and the force of the water rushing through them is still carving the rock and limestone. It doesn’t get much warmer than 12 degrees Celcius inside the caves, so be sure to wear a warm jacket. Follow the dim lighting as you head deeper into the caves with your guide and small group.
For more details on the experience and to see the answers to some frequently asked questions check out their website here.
4. The Grotto
Leave the roar of the water behind as you board a small boat and cruise into a silent hidden grotto. It’s here that you’re surrounded by hundreds of spectacular glowworms. Every direction you turn, there are clusters of these bioluminescent insects living in the grotto walls. Your guide will share some information with you as you drift around on the still waters. With nothing but the glowworms in sight, it’s an opportunity to truly appreciate these special creatures that are unique to New Zealand. This underground starry show is something you’ve got to see for yourself.
This article was created in paid partnership with RealNZ.
