Abseil 100m into the surreal Lost World. Descend slowly, suspended in the massive void. Mist-filtered light gives unreal qualities to the strange plants and formations. Then embark on an underworld trek and climb back through the majestic dry passages of the Mangapu cave system.

The abseil (rappel) descent takes around 20 minutes of the total 4 hours required.
Abseil slowly alongside your instructor who although on a separate rope provides information, reassurance …and a backup safety tether.

Imagine free-hanging in this massive void…bouncing a bit & turning because of the sheer length of the rope. Look around into upper levels of the cave and giant spagatites (look like giant green hands growing out of the walls). Weird plants struggle to cling to the sheer walls and all the while the roar of the Mangapu river echoes up from caverns far below.

It feels like you’re descending into the bowels of some gigantic prehistoric beast…a sensory feast.

Why is this Chuffed Worthy?

It’s one of those experiences that is uniquely Kiwi. Pioneered in the 1980’s it has grown to be a activity synonymous with outdoor adventure in New Zealand. Most of the Chuffed team have done this experience and rate it very highly.