Ruakuri Cave Black Water Rafting Guided Experience

Your experience

Experience New Zealand’s most famous underground tubing adventure, the 3-hour Black Labyrinth at Ruakuri Cave. Float, jump, and weave your way through glowworm-lit waters on this rafting tour with expert guides.

Getting started

Meet your guide at the Ruakuri Cave base, where you’ll be given a safety briefing and fitted with your wetsuit, helmet, and tubing gear. Your guide will walk you through basic tubing techniques before you head underground.

What to expect

• Enter the cave through a rock hole: Slip into the cool waters and instantly feel the excitement as you’re surrounded by the cave’s natural limestone walls.

• Underground tubing & gentle rapids: Float through twisting channels, navigate small rapids, and drift quietly beneath a glittering ceiling of thousands of glowworms (Arachnocampa Luminosa).

• Local legends & glowworm facts: Hear fascinating Maori legends and learn about the glowworms’ unique life cycle as you journey through the dark.

• Waterfall jumps: For an extra rush, take the plunge from low underground waterfalls, perfectly safe yet thrilling enough to get your adrenaline pumping.

• Snack break: Pause mid-tour to enjoy complimentary snacks and recharge before the final stretch.

• Return & refresh: After your adventure, enjoy a hot shower back at The Base, then relax at the on-site café.