Cave Stream

Just north of Arthur's Pass, Cave Stream is a hidden gem on the West Coast that offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty. This 594-metre-long limestone cave, carved by a crystal-clear stream, invites you to wade through its chilly waters and marvel at ancient glowworms clinging to the ceiling. It's a truly immersive experience, combining a gentle hike with an underground expedition that feels like stepping into another world.

Highlights & What to See

• Glowworm Grotto: Inside the cave, thousands of glowworms create a starry ceiling. Bring a torch and turn it off to see them shimmer.
• Limestone Formations: Stalactites, stalagmites, and sculpted rock walls line the cave, formed over millions of years.
• Cave Stream Walkway: A short 1.5 km loop track leads to the cave entrance and exit, passing through beech forest and alongside the stream.
• Waterfall at the Exit: The stream emerges from the cave via a small waterfall, a perfect photo spot.
• Nearby Arthur's Pass National Park: Combine your visit with a hike to Devils Punchbowl Falls or a scenic drive over Arthur's Pass.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the full experience: a 20-minute walk to the cave entrance, about 30–40 minutes to wade and scramble through the cave (the water is waist-deep in places, and sturdy footwear is essential), and a 15-minute walk back via the loop track. If you're not keen on getting wet, you can just walk the track and peer into the cave mouth. Best visited on a dry day, as the water level can rise after rain.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Arthur's Pass Village – 20 minutes south, with café stops and trailheads for alpine walks.
• Castle Hill – 40 minutes east, famous for its dramatic limestone boulders and rock climbing.
• Greymouth – 45 minutes northwest, the West Coast's largest town, with breweries and the Pancake Rocks at Punakaiki.
• Hokitika – 1 hour south, known for pounamu (greenstone) galleries and wild beaches.
• Lewis Pass – 1.5 hours north, a scenic route with hot springs and tramping tracks.

Please check official sources for current details.