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Okupata Caves (Trip #1 AM) | Project Tongariro
Monday 23 January 2023

WADE THROUGH AN UNDERGROUND STREAM BENEATH THE COVER OF DARKNESS, AND AMONG THE LABYRINTH OF CAVES HOME TO GLOW WORMS, UNIQUE LIMESTONE FORMATIONS AND NATIVE CAVE WETA. EXPERIENCE THE STILLNESS OF THIS UNDERGROUND WORLD AND SQUEEZE THROUGH GAPS VIA THE GLOW OF TORCHLIGHT.

Trip length: 3 hours
Minimum Age: 7 years
Max Participants: 10
Meeting Place: Meet on the corner of John McDonald Rd and SH 47. An instructor from Hillary Outdoors will meet participants to check gear and provide a briefing.
Transport: Own - 4WD VEHICLE WITH A HIGH WHEEL BASE ONLY or car pool 20 km to the caves (some of this is on gravel roads).
Cost: $22
Grade: 2 Easy - Suitable for people with average fitness and reasonable health. Includes moving through confined spaces, getting wet to at least knee height and crawling through shallow water.

PARTICIPANTS ARE ASKED TO BRING: 

  • Warm clothes (clothes will get wet and dirty)
  • Gloves
  • Raincoat
  • Sturdy boots
  • Torch and spare batteries - you will not be allowed into the cave without a torch
  • Bicycle helmet - you will not be allowed into the cave without a helmet
  • Snack and drink
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Personal medication
  • Dry shoes and spare clothes for afterwards.


If you are adequately equipped, activities will be enjoyable, otherwise, they can be cold and miserable. 

Please note: the trip leader reserves the right to refuse anyone who is insufficiently equipped.

More information: https://www.tongariro.org.nz/mahi-aroha-2023/okupata-caves-trip-1-am-2023