Bulmer Cavern

Bulmer Cavern is an extensive cave system beneath Mount Owen featuring limestone passages, chambers, and formations spread throughout its sprawling network. The underground passages contain stalagmites, stalactites, and other rock formations visible along the cave walls and ceilings.

The cave system was discovered in 1984 when researchers first explored its depths. Since then it has become the longest known cave system in New Zealand.

The cave network holds particular importance for New Zealand speleologists who document and study its geological characteristics and underground formations.

Access requires specialized equipment and experienced guidance as sections demand technical climbing or diving. Visitors should prepare for challenging physical conditions and uneven underground terrain.

Large sections of the cave system remain unmapped and unexplored, with the possibility that hundreds of kilometers of additional passages lie hidden beneath Mount Owen. Researchers regularly discover new connections between previously separate cave sections.

Location: Tasman District

GPS coordinates: -41.55830,172.51880

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:21