Walk Details

NZ Walking Routes > Nelson > Nelson City > Maitai Caves

Maitai Caves

Location

Near the end of Nile st east, turn into Maitai Rd and head 11km up Maitai Valley. Cross the Maitai Forks Bridge to the start of the dam reserve. Track begins at footbridge 100m back down the road from the gateway into the reserve.

Please note: follow the signs to Maitai Caves – DO NOT take any of the Dun Mountain forks.

Description

The Maitai Valley to the east of the city is a popular recreational area with numerous picnic and swimming spots.

The Maitai Cave walk takes a southern turn into the limestone area of the mineral belt. The limestone has been tilted to vertical by earth movements, making channels for water that carve out cave formations. These have their own unique insect and plant life including a rare limestone kowhai.
This is well worth the walk-the last 45 minutes is close to a mossy creek and the limestone cave entrance is wonderful to explore.

A good challenging walk to clear the cobwebs – a few slippery scrambles!!

Three hours return, includes some inclines and can be uneven but still well marked. Wear strong footwear.

There is an uphill scramble at the end to the cave-take a torch!!

Duration

3.0 hours

Level

Medium

Amenities

• Carpark
• Historical
• Plant Life
• Tramping

Source

www.nelsoncitycouncil.co.nz

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