Glow Worm Cave Express

OVERVIEW

Explore the Kawati Caves, a cavernous wonderland filled with thousands of glow worms that eerily illuminate the interior. The descendants of the Māori chieftain Kawiti own the caves, which are home to a species of gnat – commonly called a glow worm – that emits a blue-green light from an organ near its tail. That bioluminescence is created when chemicals and enzymes in the gnat react with oxygen in the air. The mesmerizing light show resembles a galaxy of stars in the inky blackness. The lights attract other insects that get caught in the network of silky yet sticky threads that the glow worms leave hanging from the ceiling like icicles. Caves are the ideal habitat for the glow worms because there is enough dampness to draw prey but little wind to disturb the threads. However, the slightest noise – sneezing, coughing or even whispering – can be enough to disturb the glow worms and turn off their lights.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through a cave whose only light is bioluminescence from glow worms.
• Look up at the cave’s ceiling, which is covered with thousands of glow worms.
• Discover how the glow worms produce their lights and how they attract insect prey.
• Learn a bit about the history of the cave, which the Māoris have long owned.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.