Abbey Caves

Announcement

Tracks are open after being assessed for damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle.

Photo of a limestone rock outcrop at Abbey Caves.

The Abbey Caves Reserve features dramatic limestone outcrops, sink holes and three significant caves; Organ, Middle and Ivy. 

A well-established native forest includes particularly fine specimens of puriri trees.

There is a toilet block at the entrance to the reserve. 

Parking

Lay-by and roadside parking area is available on Abbey Caves Road. 

What to expect

  • Grass paths may be muddy and slippery after rain
  • Steep stile and steps at the entrance
  • Large rocks to be negotiated in places
  • Seasonal grazing by livestock
  • Electric fencing (marked)

Abbey Caves walkway

Grade:        3
Time:          40 minutes
Distance:   1162 metres 

Access is over a steep wooden stile and down a series of box steps onto a circular walkway of mown grass. The three caves are signposted and lie just off this walkway.

Only experienced cavers should enter the underground caves, as there are risks from rapidly rising water and roof falls. The Organ Cave entrance is dangerous due to a roof fall.

The walkway comprises of naturally sculptured limestone outcrops, sink holes and three significant caves, Organ, Middle and Ivy. 

Along the walkway, you will see two distinct areas of native bush, podocarp-hardwood forest, specimens of puriri trees, and site of the historic house of Nathaniel and Amelia Clotworthy.

 

Location

71 Abbey Caves Road, Whangārei 0175  View Map

Google Map
Tagged as:

Facility Snapshot

Features

  • Dog friendly - on leash
  • Shade Areas
  • Toilets
  • Walking Trails Unpaved

Trail grades

1 - A well made path with easy access for most people including families.  

2 - A short walk generally on well made path but may include steeper sections.  

3 - A longer walking track usually well made including steps and more suitable for people with reasonable fitness.

Information and maps

Abbey Caves map(PDF, 244KB)

Summer safe carparks

Summer safe carparks

Back to top