ABBEY CAVES
Just a few kilometres from the city centre, in a secluded reserve, you can explore three unspoilt underground caves with glow worms and stalactites. The caves are surrounded by naturally sculptured limestone outcrops and mature native bush with impressive Puriri trees.
They are linked by a loop track through farmland, which is a beautiful and interesting walk if you aren’t too keen on venturing underground.
Entry is free. We would recommend allowing at least 3 hours to explore all three caves. The loop walk takes around an hour.
Safety Info
Go with a friend or make sure someone knows where you are heading and expected return time.
The descent into the caves is steep, rocky and slippery – moderate fitness and strength required. Be prepared to get wet.
You’ll need some sturdy shoes with a good sole and a torch – we recommend a headlamp as you’ll often need both hands to climb safely – take a spare.
The water level in the caves will change with rainfall. Do not go in winter.
Livestock grazing and electric fences (marked).
History
The current 18 hectare reserve was once part of a 168 hectare farm owned by Nathaniel and Amelia Clotworthy who settled here in around 1860. Their house resembled an Irish ‘Abbey’ leading to the name. The land was bought by Golden Bay Cement to establish a mine but in 1989 they sold it to the City Council as a reserve for the people of Whangarei.
Location
Located on Abbey Caves Road approx. 5.5km from the city centre. Limited parking on side of the road. No Toilet facilities.
WAIPU CAVES
If you are willing to venture “off the beaten track” Waipu Caves is worth a visit. Untouched and non-commercialised, you can experience the raw beauty of underground caves complete with stalactites, a galaxy of glowworms and a bit of mud!
There is an accompanying walking track through farmland with limestone formations and weathered rocks. The ridgeline at the end of the track offers views across Whangarei Harbour to Bream Head and beyond.
Safety Info
Don’t cave alone.
You’ll need some sturdy shoes with a good sole and a torch – we recommend a headlamp as you’ll often need both hands to climb safely – take a spare.
Moderate fitness and strength required.
There are no tracks or paths to follow, be prepared to get wet and muddy, some areas are narrow and tight.
The water level in the caves will change with rainfall.
Location
On Waipu Caves road (gravel), 25 minutes south of Whangarei.
AH REED MEMORIAL KAURI PARK
Just a few kilometres from the city centre you can experience mature Kauri trees up close along a magical canopy walkway through historic native forest with bubbling streams and waterfalls.
Entry is Free. There are three track options to choose from ranging from 15 minutes to 1 hour.
History
The park received recreational reserve status in 1889 and was named in 1956 after well-known New Zealand author, historian and long-distance walker A H Reed who had a special interest in Kauri Trees.
Location
Located on Whareora Road approx. 4.5km from the city centre. Forms part of the Hatea River Walkway which extends from Elliot Reserve to Whangarei Falls.
