Clifden Caves Track

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undisputed stars of the show are the glow worms (Arachnocampa luminosa). In the darkest, stillest parts of the cave, if you turn off your torch and wait for your eyes to adjust, a subterranean galaxy will slowly reveal itself. Thousands of tiny, bioluminescent lights cling to the ceiling, mimicking a starry night sky. These carnivorous larvae use their light to attract prey into sticky silk threads—a beautiful but deadly trap that creates one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural spectacles.

• Stalactites and Stalagmites: Impressive formations created by mineral-rich water dripping over centuries.
• Flowstones: These look like "frozen waterfalls" of rock, where water has run down the walls and left behind shimmering layers of calcite.
• Fossils: Because this limestone was once a shallow seabed, you can often find the outlines of ancient shells and pebbles cemented into the rock walls.

Getting There

To find this hidden gem, head towards the Clifden area in Western Southland. The caves are located on Clifden Gorge Road. If you are coming from Tuatapere, it’s a short and scenic drive.

There is a gravel parking area located directly opposite the cave entrance signpost. It is a basic roadside area with no formal facilities (no toilets or rubbish bins), so make sure you use the loo before you arrive and be prepared to take all your rubbish home with you. From the car park, simply cross the road and climb the stile to begin your underground trek.

Wildlife Spotting

While the interior of the cave is home to the glow worms and the occasional cave spider, the area surrounding the entrance and exit is teeming with native New Zealand birdlife. The limestone cliffs and surrounding bush provide an excellent habitat for several species.

Keep an ear out for the friendly Fantail (pīwakawaka), which will often follow you to the cave mouth, fluttering about to catch insects stirred up by your footsteps. You are also likely to see and hear the Tūī and Bellbird (korimako), whose melodic songs echo beautifully against the rock faces.

If you are lucky, you might spot a South Island Robin (toutouwai) hopping near the track entrance; they are famously curious and may even approach you if you stand still. If your visit extends into the dusk hours, listen for the haunting "boo-book" call of the Morepork (ruru), New Zealand’s native owl, which nests in the surrounding trees.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Clifden Caves are a fantastic year-round destination. Because the temperature inside the cave remains relatively constant, it can be a cool escape in the heat of Summer or a sheltered adventure during a crisp Winter day. However, your safety depends entirely on the weather.

• The Golden Rule: Never enter the caves during or after heavy rain. The system is prone to flash flooding. If the sky looks threatening or rain is forecast, save the trip for another day.
• Timing: Any time of day is fine, but starting mid-morning allows you to enjoy the surrounding scenery and head to a local cafe for lunch afterward.
• What to Wear: Leave your jeans at home! Wear wool or polypropylene layers that stay warm even when wet. Sturdy boots with good grip are essential, as the limestone is incredibly slick.
• Lighting: This is non-negotiable. Every person in your group must have at least two reliable light sources (a headlamp and a handheld torch is a great combo) plus spare batteries.
• Safety Gear: A lightweight climbing or cycling helmet is highly recommended to protect your head from low ceilings and sharp rock edges.
• Group Size: The Department of Conservation recommends a group of 2–6 people. Never go in alone, and always tell someone responsible where you are going and when you expect to be back.

Local & Regional Context

The Clifden area is steeped in both geological and human history. These caves began their life millions of years ago when New Zealand was partially submerged under a warm, shallow sea. The accumulation of marine life created the limestone, which was later uplifted and carved out by acidic groundwater.

For humans, the caves have been a point of fascination for over a century. They have been a recognised tourist stop since the 1890s, making them one of the oldest "attractions" in the region. Unlike the highly developed Waitomo Caves in the North Island, Clifden remains raw. It represents a time when exploration was about personal discovery rather than guided tours and gift shops. Access is granted through the kindness of local landowners, so please respect the private property and the delicate cave environment—take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints.

After the Walk

Once you emerge back into the daylight, likely a bit muddy and damp, you’ll probably be looking for a place to warm up and refuel.

Head 14 kilometres down the road to Tuatapere, the "Sausage Capital of New Zealand." Here, you’ll find Tui Base Camp. This local institution is the perfect spot for hikers. It has a welcoming, rustic atmosphere and serves up hearty meals that are exactly what you need after a subterranean scramble. Whether you want a big burger, a hot coffee, or a chance to chat with other adventurers about the glow worms you just saw, it’s the heart of the local community and a great place to support the Southland region.