Cracroft Caverns

Cracroft Caverns is a cave system in Cashmere, Christchurch, carved into the hillside and containing multiple chambers. The largest room measures 7 meters high, 10 meters wide, and 30 meters long, revealing the extent of the underground construction.

Construction of these caverns began in 1942 as a military headquarters project designed to protect against potential Japanese attacks during World War II. The project reflected the wartime concerns that gripped New Zealand at that time.

The caverns are named after the Cracroft Wilson estate, established by Sir John Cracroft Wilson in 1854, which the military later commandeered for operations. This connection links the site to both early European settlement and its later military purpose.

The caverns are located in Cashmere, a suburb of Christchurch, and are relatively accessible, though visitors should expect uneven ground and confined spaces. It is wise to wear sturdy footwear and bring a flashlight to safely explore the underground rooms.

After World War II, the caverns were sealed and forgotten until 1987 when reporter Jeff Field rediscovered them through information from a local gardener. This unexpected rediscovery brought an important piece of city history back to light.