Tuatini Cave
Tuatini
A large cave between Lake Tiriara and the village of Tamarua in the south, in an unspoiled state, where stalactites and crystalline walls are most spectacular.
Tuatini Cave lies in the coral cliffs of the south of the island, between Lake Tiriara and the village of Tamarua. It is large and little developed, with stalagmites and stalactites rising throughout, and its floor and walls gleam with crystal lustre. Visits are led by the Mauteri family. Their guides point out ancient cooking tools left in the cave, fishhooks and cave crabs, and tell the family's stories of the cave. The tour takes about 2 hours and costs about NZD 50 per person, or about NZD 80 combined with an island tour. From the Lake Tiriara viewpoint, a trail continues about 600 m and then loops around the southern side of the lake to the cave mouth, about 1.6 km one way. It is easier going than Te Rua Rere, so families with children can also take part.
Opening hours
Guide reservation required
Nearby sights
- Tamarua CICC Church
- Maumaukura Lookout
- Lake Tiriara
- Rangimotia
- Saragossa Shipwreck
- Tua'ati Rock Pools
- Toru a Puru Cave
- Oneroa CICC Church