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7 Caves where you can see GLOWWORMS for free in New Zealand
New Zealand is famous for its stunning nature, and one of the most fascinating phenomena and unique things you can experience here is see glowworms, or glow worms.
These tiny insects emit a bioluminescent light, creating 'starry skies' inside caves. It's a unique natural spectacle in the world, which is spectacular especially the first time you see it. In this article we tell you what they are, how they emit light and where you can see glowworms in New Zealand. for free.
What are glowworms? or glow worms
Glowworms, known in Spanish as "worms of light", are actually larvae of a species of fly call Luminous Arachnocampa. These larvae emit a blue bioluminescent light to attract small flying insects, which are trapped in sticky threads that they themselves produce. You will be able to see how some shine brighter than others, This is because they have not eaten for longer, so they have a greater need to attract prey.
Although it is also possible to see glowworms in Australia, not in such an intense way, nor in such large colonies. We could say that it is a unique phenomenon, one that is definitely a reality. you have to add to your New Zealand itinerary. By the way, they have no relation to the firefliesThese arecarThey go down and produce their bioluminescence in different ways.
In case you are curious, the light is emitted due to a chemical reaction in a small organ with a function similar to the human kidney.
Where watch Glowworms for free
There are many places to see glowworms in New Zealand. These need very humid environments to survive, which is why they are mainly found in caves, but also on mossy walls in forested areas. Always in rather vertical positions so that the sticky threads they produce can hang down.
The most famous place to see glowworms in New Zealand It is the Waitomo Caves, But they're not free. You'll need to book a one-hour boat tour. ✅You can check it out → on GetYourGuide.
Another popular, more adventurous, and also more alternative cara, it's a tubing activity inside the caves. We haven't done it, but we've heard good things about it.
Now, let's get to 7 places to see glowworms for free in New Zealand. The first 4 are on the North Island y the rest in the South Island.
Nighttime is the best time to see glowworms.
1. Mangapohue Natural Bridge
📍Near Waitomo Caves, North Island.
Just a few kilometres from the famous Waitomo Caves lies the Mangapohue Natural Bridge. This place would be worth a visit even without the glowworms living there, because it is a gigantic natural stone arch.
In the same parking lot begins a very short trail that takes you to the arch, all This path is full of glowworms. It was where we saw them for the first time and we were completely alone, it was magical. Plus, you can stay overnight for free, so you can spend the night there with your camper van, as we did.
Keep in mind that since you are not inside a cave you will need it to be at night, or at least, at sunset time to be able to see them. And while we're at it, also note the Marokopa Falls, a spectacular waterfall just a few kilometres from Mangapohue.
2. Waipu Caves Scenic Reserve – The best cave in the north to see glowworms
📍Northland, North Island
These are real caves, located in Northland, about two hours from Auckland They are one of the best places for me What to see on New Zealand's North Island. The Waipu Caves They are a very popular place to see glowworms because of their easy access. You just have to follow the water course for about 50 meters to reach the first room, which is where they are seen the most and best. You can also continue moving forward to other rooms.
Although they are The most accessible caves to see glowworms You'll need shoes that can get wet and a headlamp. The Waipu Caves became one of our must-see places. What to see on New Zealand's North Island.
3. Limestone Creek Reserve Glow Worm Caves
📍Rohahine Forest Park, North Island
It takes about 10-15 minutes to get to them from the parking lot. They are not very dark, so it is recommended to go at dusk to see the glow worms better. You will need shoes that can get wet, and that it doesn't get too cold, because the water in New Zealand's rivers is freezing.
These caves are kind of in the middle of nowhere, I'm sure. If you go there you will be alone in them. You can detour to Limestone Creek when heading towards South Island coming from the Togagiro Alpine Crossing or Taranaki. In fact, closer to Tongagiro National Park there are other caves, the Okupata Caves, but for these it is recommended to wear a helmet.
4. Blue Lake Track
📍Rotoroute, North Island
This is a trail that runs along a lake very close to Rotorua. All along the trail you can see glow worms when night falls. So you know, a night walk is some of the things to do in Rotorua.
Another place not too far away, about 60km away, is the trail of the McLaren Falls where you can also see some glowworms at night. As you can see, there are many places where you can see glowworms for free, the ones we are telling you about here and many more that you might discover by chance.
5. Minnehaha Walk
📍Fox Glacier, South Island.
The Minnehaha Walk, located near Fox Glacier, is a trail of about 20 minutes, which if you do at night you will be able to see the glowworms shining along the path. It is a place that is quite frequented by those who spend the night in the area, but as it is a trail you will not get the feeling that there are many people at any time.
???? Another animal you shouldn't miss on the South Island? We tell you like and Where to see penguins in New Zealand
6. Glow Worm Dell – See Glowworms on the West Coast
📍Hokitika, South Island.
Glow Worm Dell, on the West Coast, is one of the places Most popular places to see glowworms on the South IslandIt's practically at the foot of carYou walk a little over a minute to reach some leafy walls full of them.
When we visited there were several people coming and going, talking and using their cell phones at full brightness, which takes away a bit of its charm compared to other places. But it is certainly a good option if you sleep in the area. It is also one of the few places accessible to carritual and wheelchair.
7. Nicols Creek Glow Worms
📍Dunedin, South Island.
Near Dunedin, in Nicols Creek, there is another short trail of about 15-20 minutes that is full of glow worms. If you are staying in the area it is a very good plan once it gets dark. In fact, along the beaches in the area there are also you can see blue penguins at sunset, so ending the day like this would be the perfect combination.
These are our recommendations for seeing glowworms in New Zealand for free. As you can imagine, there are many other places, but I think these 7 are very cool and accessible. If you have any questions or another recommended place to see glowworms, don't hesitate to leave a comment! To continue organizing your trip you can read our New Zealand guides.
