Ngarua Caves
About
Ngarua Caves is a series of limestone caves in the Takaka Hill range, south of Abel Tasman National Park, alongside State Highway 60 between Motueka and Upper Takaka. Guided tours run hourly from 10am to 4pm along a walkway through the caves, past stalagmites and stalactites and a skeletal display of the extinct moa. Above ground, visitors can view Tasman Bay and browse a souvenir shop.
Reviews
Amazing experience at Ngarua Caves! The guide was knowledgeable and made the tour engaging. The cave formations are stunning, and seeing the ancient moa bones was unforgettable. Easy walk and well organized. Definitely recommend stopping here.
rakesh b. · April 2026 · via Google
This is such a cool experience at the Ngarua Cave. A great place to witness history, we are talking from 600-800 years ago. It is $30 per person and there are specific timeslot, it is a guided tour for around 45mins. You can take pictures but no videos. Make sure you dress warm as it is relatively cool in the cave.
Lo J. · April 2026 · via Google
This is a must see but I'm very disappointed in the history telling about the extinction off the moa there is no evidence that the moa was drying off . It was over hunting by the indigenous people at that time that lead to their extinction ,apart from that I highly recommended a stop
Peter F. · April 2026 · via Google
The staff were lovely, can’t remember our guides name but he was from America! And has a very good singing voice !! It was just me and my partner on the tour so it went quickly but thoroughly enjoyable! They do tours by the hour btw!
Megan W. · March 2026 · via Google
Great walk through the cave. Guides are amazing and caring. Beautiful area as you walk back.
Pleiades N. · March 2026 · via Google
Services
- Guided cave tours
- Walkway through the caves
- Stalagmite and stalactite formations
- Moa skeleton display
- Souvenir shop
- Coffee and refreshments
- Tasman Bay lookout