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Cave · Te Anau, Southland
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Limestone caves on the far side of Lake Te Anau, with an underground river, waterfalls and a chamber whose ceiling is covered in glowworms, seen by boat in the dark. Access is only by guided tour.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Te Anau Glowworm Caves
The Te Ana‑au caves lie on the western shore of Lake Te Anau, on the far side of town, and are reached only by boat. They are relatively young limestone caves, still being shaped by the underground river that runs through them, with rapids and small waterfalls along the way.
The visit is a guided tour. After crossing the lake, groups follow boardwalks to the cave entrance, then board a small boat that glides in silence through the dark into a cavern whose ceiling is covered in glowworms. The lights are larvae of an insect found only in New Zealand that uses the light to attract prey.
The caves were known to Māori and were rediscovered in 1948. To protect the glowworms, photography inside the cave is not permitted. The tour includes an explanation of cave formation and the insects’ life at the visitor centre on the far shore.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2½ hours, including the lake crossing.
Best time
At any time, day or night, because inside the cave it is always dark. Times are fixed; book in advance.
How to get there
Boats depart from the Te Anau jetty on the lakefront, near the town center. The crossing takes about half an hour.
Tip
The tour is paid separately; check the current price list. Bring a jacket: the cave is cold and damp. Do not use a camera or phone inside the glowworm cave.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Te Anau Glowworm Caves
How do you visit the Te Anau glowworm caves?
On a guided tour that crosses Lake Te Anau by boat and explores the caves on foot and in a small boat in the dark.
Can you photograph the glowworms in the Te Anau caves?
No. The ban protects the glowworms, which are sensitive to light.
How long is the tour to the Te Anau caves?
About two and a half hours, including the lake crossing.