The Glowing Grotto of New Zealand


Image: perdidoseachados

This spectacular sight is a cave in Waitomo, a township on the North Island of New Zealand that is populated with glowworms. The cave ceiling, luminous in blue and green, is lit by Arachnocampa luminosa, a species only found in New Zealand and parts of Australia. The "worm" is actually a larva that weaves a web which, when strung from the cave ceiling, resembles a glowing strand of pearls. 

The Māori were aware of this magical cave system for hundreds of years prior to the first official survey, lead by a Māori tribal chief and an English surveyor in 1887. The dazzling lights in what is now known as the Glowworm Grotto had the team awestruck.

Tours of the caves are available to visitors, on which they are treated to a boat ride through the radiant grotto. Yet another reason why I'd love to visit New Zealand! Via Viral Nova.

 
Image: desmondkukf


Login to comment.
Click here to access all of this post's 0 comments




Email This Post to a Friend
"The Glowing Grotto of New Zealand"

Separate multiple emails with a comma. Limit 5.

 

Success! Your email has been sent!

close window
X

This website uses cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using this website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

I agree
 
Learn More