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Duration: | 2 Hour(s) - 0 Minute(s) |
Tour Category: | Glow-worm Caves |
Glow-Worm Caves Lake Te Anau:
At approximately 12,000 years old, these spectacular Glow-worm caves are part of the ‘youngest’ section of the greater Aurora system. For this reason the caves are considered high energy the risk of flooding and low stalactite and stalagmite growth are a sign of this.
The Tunnel Burn stream that flows through the entirity of this underground system would have originally run across the surface from Lake Orbell then on to Lake Te Anau. However, gradually this water cut through the mountain and down into the soft limestone within the cave system. The caves appear to still be growing, probably because of the continuous flow of water – the coursing power and mildly acidic nature of the stream dissolves the rock surface and then turns small cracks, crevices into large open voids.
Explore the caves
The twists and turns of this amazing Aurora cave system are special - legendary. While you visit some interesting places, it certainly does not cover the full distance of the underground system.
6.7 kilometres long, and with four sprawling levels, the cave system is equal parts dark and treacherous, magical and enthralling, see for yourself, enjoy an experience like no other!