in Queenstown New Zealand
|
|
BEST VIEWED IN LANDSCAPE MODE ON MOBILE DEVICES
U.S.FTC GUIDELINES PLEASE NOTE: we act as an affiliate for several companies that feature on our website. In some cases we may earn a commission from referrals to those companies. For further information please refer to our Privacy and Disclaimer policies which can be found in the "About" tab.
U.S.FTC GUIDELINES PLEASE NOTE: we act as an affiliate for several companies that feature on our website. In some cases we may earn a commission from referrals to those companies. For further information please refer to our Privacy and Disclaimer policies which can be found in the "US" tab.
Welcome to the te anau glowworm caves
The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are one of fiordlands natural wonders
The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a must see for any nature lover visiting Fiordland National Park.
This highly rated attraction is the perfect addition to any visit to Te Anau, which is the service town for Fiordland, and the closest town to both Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.
To protect the local eco-system, tour visitor numbers are restricted each year, so bookings are essential.
a little caves history
Part of the larger Aurora cave system, the caves are part of Maori legend and were "rediscovered" in 1948 by Lawson Burrows, who, after a three year search, located the upper entry.
He then set up a tourism business (Fiordland Travels) with his partner, Wilson Campbell, to promote the caves. In 1965 they sold the business to Olive and Les Hutchins, who in 2002 rebranded as Real Journeys. In 2022 they again rebranded as RealNZ.
Where are the Te Anau Glowworm Caves
The caves are located on the western shore of Lake Te Anau, on New Zealand's South Island. The adjoining area is a significant area as it's also home to the endangered native bird, the Takahe.
How do i get to the caves?
the Te Anau Glowworm Caves are not accessible by road, so you will need to join a tour from Te Anau that includes a short boat ride across the lake.
Your tour (information current as at August 2025)
Your tour begins as you board your tour boat for a short ride across the shimmering waters of lake Te Anau. The surrounding mountains tower above the lake, and in the cooler months, almost glow with their snow cap.
After you disembark, it's a short stroll to Cavern House, where you can learn about the caves from some excellent information displays.
Then, it's time to head underground. Welcome to the stunning subterranean wonderland of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves.
Carved out of the surrounding limestone hills over a period of around twelve thousand years, the caves are actually reasonably young, and continue to evolve under the force of the river (the Tunnel Burn stream) that flows through them.
But that doesn't detract from their features or beauty. Limestone passages twist and turn through the caves, and feature some remarkable natural sculptures, whirlpools, and even a waterfall.
Your tour guide is a fountain of knowledge, and an excellent source of information about the caves history and features.
Then it's time to see what you came to see. After descending into the caves, you board a small boat, and silently glide into a cavern inhabited by thousands of twinkling glowworms.
Their display is mesmerising.
Inclusions
- A relaxing scenic cruise across stunning Lake Te Anau to the caves
- Your guided cave tour including expert commentary
- Free beverage (coffee and tea)
Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Unfortunately the tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues, wheelchair users, or infants.
Some bending is required for some of the cave entrances, and flat sole non-slip shoes should be worn. Please also take a warm weather proof jacket as the temperature inside the caves sits between 8 - 12ºC.
Please note that camera use is not permitted inside the glowworm cave.
Where does the tour start?
Your tour begins at the RealNZ Visitor Centre at 85 Lakefront Drive Te Anau.
