Explore the Majestic Cathedral Caves: A Natural Wonder
Discover the stunning Cathedral Caves, a natural wonder on New Zealand's southern coast, featuring breathtaking rock formations and serene coastal beauty.
Nestled along the stunning southern coast of New Zealand, the Cathedral Caves offer an awe-inspiring experience with their towering rock formations and serene beach. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, these caves are a must-visit destination for tourists eager to witness New Zealand's natural beauty.
A brief summary to Cathedral Caves
- Cathedral Caves Walk, Otago, 9586, NZ
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during low tide for the best access to the caves.
- Wear sturdy footwear for the uneven terrain.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning rock formations.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit for the best experience.
- Take your time to explore the surrounding beach and cliffs for additional views.
Getting There
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Car
From Invercargill, head north on State Highway 1 (SH1) for about 45 kilometers until you reach the town of Balclutha. Continue on SH1 for another 30 kilometers. At the small town of Milton, take the exit onto State Highway 8 (SH8) towards Lawrence. Follow SH8 for approximately 50 kilometers until you reach the junction with State Highway 1 again. Take a left onto SH1 and continue driving for about 35 kilometers until you see the signs for the Cathedral Caves. Turn onto Cathedral Caves Road and follow it to the parking area. There is a small parking fee; please ensure you have cash on hand as cards may not be accepted.
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Public Transportation
Take a bus from Invercargill to Dunedin, which takes about 2 hours. Once in Dunedin, catch a bus to Balclutha. From Balclutha, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you to Cathedral Caves as public transport does not service this remote area directly. Ensure to book your taxi in advance, and expect the fare to be around NZD 50-70 for the trip from Balclutha to Cathedral Caves.
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Walking
Once you arrive at Cathedral Caves, you will have to walk approximately 10-15 minutes from the parking area to reach the cave entrance. The path is well-marked but can be steep and uneven in places. Wear sturdy walking shoes and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
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