Harwoods Hole
Tasman District
Harwoods Hole is a remarkable cave system located in the northwest of New Zealand's South Island within Abel Tasman National Park. It features the country's deepest vertical shaft, plunging 183 metres (600 feet) from a 50-metre diameter entrance. The cave was discovered by Henry Harwood and his companions in the 19th century but was first explored only in 1958 when a team of cavers descended using a home-built winch. The hole connects to Starlight Cave and is part of a larger karst system on Tākaka Hill. Geologically, it was formed by water runoff from a large catchment area that carved the vertical shaft, though the river has since changed course. Water continues to enter through sinkholes, depositing calcite inside the cave, gradually filling it. The descent into Harwoods Hole is considered one of the most spectacular caving experiences in New Zealand, though the track to the hole is no longer maintained due to safety risks. A memorial cairn at the bottom commemorates Peter Lambert, the first fatality of the New Zealand Speleological Society, who died in a rock fall during exploration in 1960. Visitors can access the site at their own risk, appreciating the dramatic natural formation and its place within the region's notable cave networks.
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Tip: Visitors should be aware that the track to Harwoods Hole is no longer maintained or marked due to significant safety hazards including unstable and slippery rock surfaces near the unfenced hole. Access is at personal risk and proper caution is advised. The best time to visit is during dry weather for safer footing. Although the Department of Conservation does not manage the track, nearby campsites and mountain bike trails remain open. Visitors interested in caving should seek experienced guides and ensure they have appropriate equipment. Planning ahead and considering weather conditions will enhance safety and enjoyment.
Interesting facts
- •Harwoods Hole is New Zealand's deepest vertical shaft at 183 metres (600 feet).
- •The cave connects to Starlight Cave, forming part of a larger underground system.
- •A home-built 255 kg winch was used in the first descent in 1958.
- •The cave's outflow was confirmed by green dye tracing to The Gorge Creek at East Tākaka.
- •A memorial cairn with the helmet of Peter Lambert, who died in 1960, is located at the bottom of the shaft.
History
Harwoods Hole was discovered in the late 19th century by Henry Harwood with John Horton and Thomas Manson while opening the Canaan Downs area.
The cave remained unexplored until the summer of 1958/59 when seven cavers descended using a home-built winch.
This exploration established Harwoods Hole as New Zealand's deepest explored cave at the time.
Further exploration in 1959/60 confirmed its connection to Starlight Cave and the underground outflow at The Gorge Creek.
Tragically, in 1960, Peter Lambert, leader of a caving expedition, died in a rock fall, marking the first fatality in New Zealand Speleological Society history.
Since then, the site has been recognized for its geological significance and challenging caving experience.