Exploring Cave Stream in Craigieburn New Zealand

Cave Stream is a popular walk and is enjoyed by many tourists to New Zealand. While participants need to be properly equipped and prepared, children over five can manage the walk. My husband and I have done it several times and found it challenging and fun.

What does the Cave Stream Walk Involve

People are directed by signage to the downstream entrance of the cave where the stream gushes out to join the Broken River. The cave passage is almost 600 metres long and it takes between 45 minutes and an hour to complete the walk. It is pitch dark inside and the cave twists and turns before emerging at the upstream entrance.

Preparing for a Walk through Cave Stream

I am not an experienced caver but managed the walk with minimal difficulty. However, it would not suit people with mobility problems as the floor is uneven and scattered with rocks. The New Zealand Department of Conservation suggests that people adhere to these guidelines when entering Cave Stream:

• Never enter the cave on your own. Go in groups of three or more.

• Carry one torch or headlamp per person plus spare batteries.

• Wear warm polypropylene or wool tops.

• Wear shorts or long-johns. Don't wear jeans as they become heavy in water and can be a hazard.

• Wear sturdy footwear as you will be clambering over rocks.

• Enter the cave at the outflow end and walk against the flow of the stream.

• Have clothing to change into when you finish.

• Check the weather forecast and do not enter the cave during heavy rain.

• Look for signs of flooding such as discoloured or foaming water, debris in water, and the sounds of rocks rolling.

• Check the water levels and do not enter if they are above chest height.

• Don't go through the cave in winter as you will risk hypothermia.

What are the Challenges of the Cave Stream Walk

I found one of the hardest things was entering the cave. The stream is at its deepest point just past the entrance and at its normal level, reaches between waist and chest height. Even in summer, the water is icy and a great shock to the system.

Once inside, the cave winds along with the floor alternating between smooth rock and large rounded rocks. Every footstep has to be tested or you risk twisting your ankle. In places the cave widens and small splash pools are fun to take a rest in.

Cave Stream is punctuated by several waterfalls and if the water is flowing fast, it can be challenging to climb up these. It is best to have your hands free and friends next to you to push and pull you up if necessary.

The exit to Cave Stream is an ascent up a rock face using iron rungs that are sunk into the rock. These lead to a narrow passage that you crawl through to reach daylight. There is a chain along the passage floor to help those who are nervous.

Cave Stream is a limestone formation and includes little alcoves and high vaulted ceilings in places. It is a memorable experience and in the summer months many tourist groups go through the cave. I have enjoyed all my walks through Cave Stream and will definitely visit again.

Reference:

Cave Stream Brochure