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ruakuri caves

This project provides access to the Ruakuri Cave system near Waitomo in the central North Island. The structure comprises a 10 metre diameter shaft buried 4 stories into the ground. Within the shaft a spiral ramp leads down to an airlock, beyond which is the cave system. The suspended walkways lead deep into the cave system, running above an underground river which is used for black water rafting. The drama below ground is contrasted by the natural feel of the cave entry above ground, made from sprayed concrete to replicate local rock formations.
Leuschke Group Ltd Registered architects, Auckland, New Zealand