The Waitomo Glowworm Caves in New Zealand are known for their populations of Arachnocampa luminosa, a glowworm species exclusive to New Zealand.
The glowworms, which are not actual worms but the larvae of a type of fungus gnat, emit a phosphorescent glow. This glow comes from their waste and snot that is then used to attract prey into their sticky threads, making the cave ceiling resemble a starry night sky.
These caves are part of a larger limestone cave system that has formed over the last 30 million years due to geological and volcanic activity.
The Waitomo Glowworm Caves have a rich history, initially discovered in the late 19th century by a local Māori chief and opened to the public shortly after, with local Māori acting as guides. The caves were eventually taken over by the government but were later returned to the Māori, and today, many of the cave’s employees are descendants of the original founders.
The name “Waitomo” comes from the Māori words wai meaning water and tomo meaning hole or shaft.
