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Onepoto Caves Track

The Onepoto Caves were formed by the same upheaval that created Lake Waikaremoana some 2,200 years ago. The caves range from small cavities and rock overhangs to deep recesses and tunnels up to 50 m long.

The Onepoto Caves Track is a 2 km long return trip and is signposted at the road side, at the site of the original lake outlet. The end point or turning point of the track is a lookout and parking place above the edge of the lake, right next to State Highway 38.

The track starts with a gentle 10 minute climb, through a number of rocky outcrops and over-hangs. It then follows an undulating ridge, branching off at different points, to allow exploration of the various caves in the area. There is a lookout point along the ridge that has a clear view of the stratified layers of rock comprising the "intact block" of rock that slid down from the Ngamoko Range.

At one point the track takes two different routes (marked "track" and "bypass"). The track takes you down through a rock tunnel several metres long and the bypass takes you around a large, jutting rock over-hang.

The track then descends into a small valley that contains the largest number of caves on the walk. It is essential to take a torch if you intend to explore the caves as they have little natural light ad some of them contain hazards such as deep holes and slippery floors. Children should be accompanied by an adult.

From the valley, the track climbs back up to a narrow ridge. Part-way along the ridge there is a second lookout point that gives good views of the lake and Panekire Bluff to the west. From this point you can see back over the valley to the ridge you originally climbed, and to the first lookout opposite.

From this lookout the track continues (very close to SH 38), eventually emerging near a small car park and lookout of the edge of the lake. You can either return back along the caves track, or walk back along the road.

Information thanks to the Department of Conservation