Why do Waitomo Caves glow?
The glowworms in the Waitomo and Ruakuri caves are the larvae (grubs) of a species of gnat called Arachnocampa luminosa, which is unique to New Zealand. Their scientific name means ‘spiderlike (arachno) ‘larva’ (campa) ‘that produce light’ (luminosa).
Do glowworm caves exist in New Zealand?
The glowworm (Arachnocampa Luminosa) is unique to New Zealand, making the Waitomo Glowworm Caves an absolute must-do. See thousands of these tiny creatures as they radiate their unmistakable luminescent light in a subterranean world. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves tours are made up of two levels.
Where are the best glow worm caves in New Zealand?
7 Best Places to See the Famous Glowworms in New Zealand
- Te Anau Glowworm Caves. At only 12,000 years old, Te Anau Glowworm Caves are one of the youngest in New Zealand.
- Lake McLaren.
- Waitomo Caves.
- Paparoa National Park.
- Kawiti Caves.
- Lake Karapiro.
- Waipu Caves.
Why do glowworm caves glow?
Over the period, these limestone caves at the bottom of the ocean have worn out and exude charm with mild light thus illuminating the scenic underground caves that have attracted visitors from all over the world. These glowworms glow because of the reaction between chemical emitted by the insects and oxygen.
Are glow worms only in New Zealand?
This particular species of glowworm can only be found in New Zealand and parts of Australia. Glowworms in other parts of the world actually refer to beetles, making our glowworms unique. Don’t miss this special opportunity to see nature at its best and book a tour to the Te Anau glowworm caves today!
What is special about Waitomo Caves?
The Waitomo Caves are not only a home for glowworms, but then also hold another amazing insect called a cave weta. Otherwise known as a cave cricket, weta are endemic to New Zealand. There are 70 different species, with one of those species, the giant weta, being the heaviest insect in the world.
Can you eat glow worms?
No, glow worms are not poisonous to humans, but some species emit a toxic substance that immobilizes their prey.
Do glow worms glow in winter?
Glow worm season is during the warmer months of the year, between December to March. They are usually found in wet habitats, so caves and rainforests are usually the places that these little organisms tend to dwell in.
What time can you see glow worms?
Where is the best place to see glow worms?
Glow worms, typically found in New Zealand and Australia, cover cave ceilings and undisturbed woodland areas where they hunt for prey using their alluring blue glow and a long thread of sticky web. As they fish for food, glow worms create an astonishing sea of starry lights.
What time of year do glow worms glow?
noctiluca are active between May and September, usually with a peak of activity in June and July. The larvae are often active for a little longer, seen between April and October. Glow-worms are usually found in locations where there is a good supply of small snails for larvae to feed on.
Do glow worms glow all night?
The glow worms are only visible at night. You can walk to the cave by yourself or take a guided tour, which you can find on the internet. You must remember, that if you shine a torch or bright light at the glow worms, they will stop shining for up to an hour.
Why visit New Zealand’s Waitomo Glowworm Caves?
World renowned and a magnet for both local and overseas visitors, the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves have been guided since 1889 and occupy a high place in the New Zealand vacation wish-list. Stare in wonder at the thousands of illuminating glowworms above as you glide silently by boat through the glowworm grotto.
How were the Waitomo Caves formed?
Over millions of years, these fossilized rocks have been layered upon each other and compressed to create limestone and within the Waitomo region the limestone can be over 200 m thick. The caves began to form when earth movement caused the hard limestone to bend and buckle under the ocean and rise above the sea floor.
How far is Waitomo cave from Auckland?
This cave is about 2 hours south of Auckland, 1 hour south of Hamilton, and 2 hours west of Rotorua by car. The directions to the Caves are to exit State Highway 3 onto Waitomo Caves Road and to continue on the road for about 8 km.
What is the best cave combo in Waitomo?
Extend your stay in Waitomo with our most popular cave combo where you can visit both the famous Waitomo Glowworm Cave and… If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable glowworm experience, then our most popular combo is for you!