CATHEDRAL CAVES

Cathedral Caves are a highlight for visitors to The Catlins. Located in cliffs at the northern end of pristine Waipati Beach, they have attracted international interest for their length - the two sea-formed passages together measure just on 200 metres - and their impressive height, up to 30 metres.
Popular for decades, this outstanding natural feature is 15km south of the village of Papatowai and 2km off the highway. From the car park a one-kilometre walking track descends through lush coastal forest to the beach. Visitors cross Maori freehold land, which is managed by a trust.
There is a small charge for the use of the car park and access to the bush track, beach and caves.

Please note

• The Caves are open for visiting between  late October and May. Sometimes spring tides delay the opening a few weeks.
• Access is limited to  one and a half  hours before low tide and up to one hour after low tide. It is not available before 7.30am or after 8.30pm. Please refer to the tide timetables. Access is not available on Christmas Day.
• The walk one-way takes about 30 minutes. Do not disturb  wildlife ( sea lions, penguins) you see on the beach or in the Caves.
• Be prepared to get your feet wet as there are often seawater pools forming in the sandy floor of the caves.
• A torch (flashlight) will be useful for the dimly lit inner reaches. The caves are not open for visiting at night.
• A few smaller caves are located further along the cliffs but visitors should be wary of incoming tides and getting cut off. There is no alternative track back to the car park.
• Insect repellent  is necessary sometimes.