#Waitomo Glowworm Caves
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One of the Most Surprisingly Impressive Natural Attractions in the World
One relatively lesser-known natural attraction that often surprises and delights visitors is the Waitomo Glowworm Caves in New Zealand. The caves are located in the North Island of New Zealand and are renowned for their unique phenomenon of glowworms illuminating the darkness.
Inside the Waitomo Caves, you’ll find thousands of tiny glowworms called Arachnocampa luminosa. These bioluminescent…
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Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Waitomo, New Zealand
#Waitomo Glowworm Caves#Waitomo#New Zealand#glow worm#waitomo new zealand#cottagecore astheic#cottagecore#cave#photography#pretty places#pretty#astheic#fairy tale authentic#fairy tail astheic#fairy tail
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Planning Your Trip
Click Here To Book FlightsClick Here To Find AccomodationsClick Here To Find Adventures and ToursClick Here To Find Tickets To Concerts, Sports, and Theater
Hidden mysteries, unmatched adventure and nature’s best kept secrets, these are the first thoughts that come to mind when we think of ‘caves’. Nature never fails to leave us awestruck with its splendour and…
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Your trip to New Zealand can never be complete without visiting the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. This place offers a unique experience because it has a world-only insect. Every seasoned traveler has Waitomo Glowworm Caves on their wish list, and we don’t see why this should pass you.
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Worms of Wonder: A Review of Spellbound Glowworm Cave Tour
Learn about the best attraction on New Zealand's North Island: the glowworm caves
Early Morning in the Waikato Region, North Island, New Zealand
It’s been long established that New Zealand has an embarrassing wealth of natural wonders and attractions, so for me to wax poetic about how beautiful the landscape is; how mind-bogglingly stunning the scenery can be; and the plethora of adrenaline-inducing activities on offer, it would probably come across as redundant. But even in…
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#best things to see New Zealand#Glow worm caves#glowworm caves#glowworm tours#Marakopa Falls#most beautiful places New Zealand#New Zealand#North Island#Spellbound tours#Waikato#Waitomo village
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The Most Amazing Thing About Nature
Welcome nature enthusiasts to my blog and prepare to be mesmerized!
Have you ever just opened up a travel brochure and seen beautiful pictures of islands with clear blue water or glowing beaches at night? Well, imagine this, a warm summer night with you standing right by the shore with your toes digging into the sand and waves gently rushing towards your feet. The moon is the only bright thing in sight, until suddenly the water starts to glow a bright blue, illuminating the darkness. What you are imagining isn’t a scene from a disney movie but one of nature’s most amazing displays.
Bioluminescent waves spotted at Long Beach in California
(https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/01/04/bioluminescence-beach-waves-orange-county-california/72102677007/ )
Bioluminescence is one of the most mesmerizing phenomena nature has to offer. If this rings a bell or you’re not sure what it is let me backtrack and refresh your memory. Bioluminescence is when living organisms produce light (US Department of Commerce, 2010). Bioluminescent creatures exist in places like the deepest parts of the ocean to the dense woodlands. Each creature is unique in the way it emits light (US Department of Commerce, 2010). You’ve probably seen or noticed some of these organisms and never realized they are known to be bioluminescent like fireflies (US Department of Commerce, 2010)! One of the most iconic examples consist of marine organisms where an abundance of tiny dinoflagellates cause the ocean to glow, also known as bioluminescent bays.
When the dinoflagellates are disturbed or they sense movement, they respond by creating trails of light wherever they go (The Ocean Portal Team, 2023). Imagine canoeing through these waters at night (although I do not recommend it) while trailing your hand and watching as the water comes alive with shimmering light under your fingertips! It truly feels like a scene straight out of a fairytale. For example, bright waves traveling with the movement of dolphins spotted at Huntington and Newport beach in California. It’s not just the ocean but high in the treetops at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in South Africa where you’ll see enchanting fireflies. Or in depths of caves like the Waitomo Glowworm caves in New Zealand where the darkness is disrupted by the light from glowworms (Watkins et al., 2018). These insects found in dark and damp caves, emit a green light to attract prey or potential mates (Watkins et al., 2018).
An image of the caves in New Zealand lit up due to the glowworms
(https://www.nationalgeographic.co.uk/travel-and-adventure/2019/01/see-natures-amazing-glow-in-the-dark-spectacles)
Did you believe these organisms only light up to claim the title of the coolest creatures around? There’s more to it than meets the eye! Some bioluminescent organisms attract prey using their light like the glowworms (Watkins et al., 2018). Others use it to camouflage with their environment (The Ocean Portal Team, 2023). Most often it is used for communication like how fireflies flash their lights to attract mates (The Ocean Portal Team, 2023). Animals like jellyfish use their ability to defend themselves by scaring their predators (The Ocean Portal Team, 2023).
The magic of bioluminescence doesn’t stop there! Scientists are still discovering new species and finding out how and why these organisms produce light. From glowing fish to fireflies high up in the sky, there is a diverse variety of bioluminescence. So next time you look out into the ocean or gaze out at the night sky, think of all the glowing organisms. Hopefully, after reading today’s blog, I’ve gotten my message across and brought the experience directly to you!
The Ocean Portal Team. (2023a, May 11). Bioluminescence. Smithsonian Ocean. https://ocean.si.edu/ocean-life/fish/bioluminescence
US Department of Commerce, N. O. and A. A. (2010, February 12). What is bioluminescence?. NOAA’s National Ocean Service. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/biolum.html#:~:text=Bioluminescence%20is%20the%20production%20and,surface%20to%20the%20deep%20seafloor.
Watkins, O. C., Sharpe, M. L., Perry, N. B., & Krause, K. L. (2018). New Zealand glowworm (arachnocampa luminosa) bioluminescence is produced by a firefly-like luciferase but an entirely new luciferin. Scientific Reports, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-21298-w
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🔥 Waitomo Glowworm Caves in New Zealand are home to thousands of twinkling glowworms.
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#1975 - Arachnocampa luminosa - New Zealand Glowworm
Photos by @purrdence at Ruakuri Cave, Aotearoa.
Ruakuri Cave is one of the longer caves in the Waitomo area of New Zealand, and the only wheelchair-accessible cave in the Southern Hemisphere. It first discovered by local Māori between 400 and 500 years ago. The name Te Ruakuri, or "The Den of Dogs" was given to the surrounding area when wild dogs were discovered living in the entrance. One of the cave entrances was used by Māori as an urupa or burial site, and is no longer used for tourism, but the cave is now accessed by a spiral drum entrance built some distance away from the sacred site.
The glowworm’s Māori name is titiwai, meaning "projected over water". Arachnocampa luminosa means ‘glowing spider-worm’.
A fungus gnat found over most of New Zealand’s North and South Island, on overhanging banks and under fallen trees whereever humidity is high, but most famously in caves. The larvae use a blue-green bioluminesence to attract fly flying insects, which become entangled in the sticky silk lines hanging down from the fungus gnat’s nest. The unfortunate prey is then hauled up and devoured, along with any spiders or other invertebrates that encounter the traps. The glow is produced in modified excretory organs known as Malpighian tubules in the abdomen, but the luciferin that the luciferase enzyme acts upon is entirely different to that of fireflies or any other currently known bioluminescent compound.
The first written record of the species dates from 1871 when it was collected from a gold mine in New Zealand's Thames region, but was original believed to be related to the European glowworm beetle Lampyris noctiluca.
After a year and five larval instars, the maggot will suspend itself on a long thread to pupate, although the pupa continues to glow. Adults usually emerge in winter, are poor fliers, and die within 4 days.
Predators include cave harvestmen, parasitic fungi, and possibly other glowworms when the adults blunder into the traps.
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Fantasy/sci-fi world building inspiration (part 2)
Dallol volcano, Ethiopia (volcano, neon yellow edition)
Painted Dunes, Lassen Volcanic national park (beige and pink sand dunes)
Lake Retbal, Senegal (a sea of Pepto Bismol)
Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah (a perfect mirror when flooded, optical illusion when dry)
Richat Structure, Ouadane Mauritania (Earth’s version of the giant swirl on Jupiter)
Black Forest, Germany (fairy-tale forest, creepy edition)(yes this is where the ham comes from)
Moss Swamp, Romania (the yassified version of Shrek’s swamp)
Giant Kelp Forest, California (pretty sure they went here in Finding Dory)
Yakushima forest, Japan (fairy-tale forest)
The Tarkine Rainforest, Tasmania (fairy-tale forest, Tasmanian edition)
Sequoia National Park, California (biggest trees in the world. Also where they filmed Star Wars)
La Chiva Beach, Puerto Rico (bluest beach in the world)
Honopu beach, Kauai (giant ocean cliffs in Hawaii)
Crystal Cave, Bermuda (millions of white stalactites over crystal-clear water)
Reed Flute Cave, China (giant cave, rainbow edition)
Waitomo Glowworm Cave, New Zealand (like glow-in-the-dark stars stuck to the roof of a cave, but more magical)
Skocjan Cave, Slovenia (ENORMOUS scary-yet-awesome double-cave system)
Eisriesenwelt ice cave, Austria (largest ice cave in the world)
Krubera cave, Georgia (deepest cave on the planet)
#worldbuilding#moorkavia#writing#fantasy#scifi#scifi inspiration#scififantasy#star wars#travel#bucket list#placesyouveneverheardof#places
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Waitomo Glowworm Caves on the North Island, New Zealand(OC) (1755×1220)
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Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand
In 1887, English surveyor Fred Mace and local Maori Chief Tane Tinorau decided to explore the Caves of Waitomo. They entered the cave system on a tiny raft where a stream descends into the underground, and with their candles, they carefully navigated the stream through the caves. In the darkness, they noticed starlike lights scattered across the formations above their heads.
Thousands of glowworms were hanging peacefully above their heads, forming a magnificent bioluminescent cosmos.
Elated with joy, the two men would return many times to explore further. On an independent trip, Tinorau found a land entrance, which is the same entrance that is used today by tourists from around the world.
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Skyless Stars
Masterlist
Wordcount: 1182
Summary: I got inspired by a gifset of glowworms from Waitomo Caves in New Zealand -> I like to think there are caves deep in Erebor like this and lovers take strolls there. Maybe there’s a pool and they go for dips in this little hideaway- away from the others for a moment of peace and privacy, contemplation... or secret kisses with Thorin.
It was early in the morning when Thorin decided to rouse his wife. You sat up as you became more alert, assuming there was something urgent happening, “What’s the matter? Is everyone okay?”
“Everyone is fine.” He assured her, “I just wanted us to spend the day together. Fili has agreed to take over most of our duties, Balin and Dis are to help him.”
As you tried to absorb his words, you rubbed your face, still half asleep, “So, no one is hurt or dying? Why are we up so early then?”
You went to lay back down, shutting your eyes for a mere second while Thorin sat on the edge of the bed by your legs.
“I want to show you somewhere that not many people know of.” He said, brushing hair from your face, “I’ll carry you there, if that’s what it takes to get you up.”
After a few more moments of silence, Thorin did just that. He scooped you off the bed as you held the blanket close. Your eyebrows furrowed at the loss of the mattress beneath you, but your husband was nearly as comfortable, and this outing was clearly important to him.
“Alright, I concede, where are we going?” You asked, noticing that the halls were empty, “What time is it?”
“Early.” He admitted, you saw the twitch of a smile as you rested your head on his shoulder, “It will be well worth it, I promise.”
“I believe you.” You said after a moment, “I just like my sleep.”
“I know.” Thorin chuckled, recalling some of the grouchier mornings you had had since he’d met you.
He continued down halls you weren’t familiar with, and you noticed that despite the torches being lit through these passages, there were still cobwebs in every corner and along most of the walls. Nobody had been down here in a very long time, except to light those torches.
“Don’t tell me you’ve already done this trek today?” You asked, sitting up as much as you could in his arms.
“If I didn’t, you wouldn’t have been able to see.” He explained, “I’ve always liked this walk, I hope you do too.”
The small corridor opened up to overlook a huge open space, but the balcony you stood up on was railed off, preventing access. Thorin set you down, and you noticed the trail of torches had stopped.
“Is this it? It’s a bit dark.” You said, “I know dwarves have better sight in the dark but-”
“You’ll have to follow me down here.” He called, and you noticed him sitting beside a lantern, his legs already through a large gap where the balcony was open, “I’ll catch you.”
With that, he vanished through the gap and though you heard it was a short drop, you were hesitant to slide through. Thorin reappeared at the gap, extending a hand to you, “I’ll catch you ghivashel.”
“I know.” You assured him, making your way to the gap, “How will we get back up?”
“There’s a path.” He promised, gesturing behind him. You placed your hand in his, allowing him to help you through the opening. He held your waist as you touched ground, before he took your hand again and led you along a narrow path.
You almost asked him if you were even allowed to be there, the whole thing felt sneaky, but then you remembered who you were with. It would be pretty hard for someone to tell the king he wasn’t welcome somewhere in his own mountain.
Another small drop and crawling through an opening brought you to a wide-open cavern that was like none you’d ever seen.
“I admit, that hole was easier to get through when I was seventy.” Thorin chuckled, rubbing a hand over his stomach before looking out at the glowing cavern, “What do you think? Was it worth the trek?”
“It’s beautiful.” You said, admiring one of the glowing… things on the roof of the cavern. Their light reflected off of the pools, making it your favorite place by far in the mountain.
The light flickered just slightly as the creatures moved, creating a unique dancing glow around the cove. Thorin rolled his pant legs up and took a seat on the water’s edge, dipping his feet into the water. He rested back against his hands, kicking his feet ever so slightly, you loved seeing him so at peace.
Still, you had your own plans for this private cove, and took advantage of your husband’s distracted state. Once you had disrobed, you gauged how deep the water was, checking with him just to be sure.
“How deep are these pools?” You asked, leaning over the side to try and figure it out.
“Well over my head.” He admitted, “Why?”
He got his answer in a splash, as you jumped into the pool. When you emerged from the water, wearing a huge grin as you wiped your hair from your face, he beamed your way.
He quickly copied, tossing his clothes on top of yours and hopping over the ledge of the pool. You were treading in place while he floated over on his back, stopping near you as he mentioned a shallower part near the far edge of the pool. You followed him to where you could both stand and the two of you rested against the edge.
You had to agree with him, this secret cavern really was beautiful, and he was the most relaxed you had ever seen him.
“This was definitely worth the early wake up call.” You told him, feeling his arm around you.
“I’m glad you think so. I spent many hours down here when I was young.” He said, “Though, this is the fondest memory I’ll hold of this place.”
It was late in the evening when you two finally returned to your wing and immediately caught the attention of Fili and Balin.
“How was your day?” Balin asked, the two of them noticing how much less tense you both looked, “I take it you enjoyed your day off?”
“It was wonderful Balin.” You assured him, adjusting your hand within Thorin’s just a bit. The day of relaxation and getting a break from everything was just what you two had needed.
“I’m glad uncle, but are you ready to take over again, because Balin was just explaining something about-” Fili began, looking a bit nervous.
“I’m afraid my day off isn’t over yet.” Thorin smiled, the two of you continuing to your room, “Whatever it is can wait until tomorrow.”
Balin and Fili were left dumbfounded in the hallway, but Balin just shook his head, “We’ll leave it until tomorrow, unless you’d like to learn now?”
Fili was gone the second he had been let off the hook. He was still in training after all, he didn’t have to worry about all of those kingly duties quite yet. Balin understood and decided to turn in himself, enough progress had been made for one day and it was nice to see the king and queen more relaxed.
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Black nail polish and plants 🌿
black nail polish: do you have a bucket list? if so, what are the top three things?
HECK YEA I DO. It’s not so much numbered in order of like “top things to do” as it is just a collection of ideas. Some of the Big Bucket List Dreams:
1) Visiting The Waitomo Glowworm Caves. What can I say? I like things that glow. Even if those things are just a bunch of worms. Actually, especially if those things are just a bunch of worms.
2) standing atop the Cliffs of Moher (preferably in a long flowing dress so I can dramatically stare out at sea and make passersby ask “who is that woman? And why does she look like she’s staring out to see for her long lost lover?” I’m in it for a not insignificant amount for the sheer Cinematic Value TM)
3) learning to sail and befriending a wild dolphin. (A Ring of Endless Light by Madeline L’Engle made quite the impression on me in my youth.)
Plants: pick a person to stargaze with you and explain why you picked them.
Aha! I got this ask from @daydreaming-optimist too, and you know what, I think we'd all have a blast stargazing together.
Aesthetic themed ask list
#hi I'm so sory this got lost in my drafts right after my shower started spitting bleach in my face#it’s fine now!!#draft cleaning day#asks#answered#contre-qui#Mari#mutuals#friends
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Want to witness the magic of a glowworm cave in Waitomo? Plan your New Zealand adventure today!
Get an enchanting journey to Waitomo, New Zealand, where the mesmerizing glowworm caves await your exploration! Begin your adventure by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the lush New Zealand landscape as you make your way to Waitomo.
Upon arrival, prepare to be awe-struck as you venture into the depths of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Guided by expert local guides, you'll navigate through a labyrinth of limestone formations adorned with thousands of twinkling glowworms. Marvel at the stunning luminescent display as these tiny creatures illuminate the darkness with their magical glow, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
After your cave exploration, take time to unwind and indulge in the picturesque surroundings of Waitomo. Whether you choose to hike through the scenic countryside, sample delicious local cuisine, or simply relax and take in the serene atmosphere, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Planning a trip to New Zealand? Don't forget to get your ETA visa online hassle-free! Apply now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! https://www.nzetaonlinevisa.com/
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10 Exciting New Zealand Tourist Attractions To Visit In 2023
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the captivating landscapes of New Zealand, where adventure awaits at every turn. In 2023, this enchanting island nation unveils a plethora of exhilarating tourist attractions that promise to mesmerize and delight travelers from around the globe. From the rugged beauty of its mountains to the pristine shores of its beaches, New Zealand offers an unparalleled experience for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike. Join us as we explore ten of the most exciting destinations that beckon adventurers to discover the magic of New Zealand in 2023.
Here are ten exciting places you might consider visiting in 2023:
1.Milford Sound:
Known for its stunning fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife, Milford Sound is a must-see destination on the South Island.
2.Tongariro National Park:
Home to the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, this park boasts dramatic volcanic landscapes and vibrant emerald lakes.
3.Rotorua:
Experience Maori culture and geothermal wonders in Rotorua, including bubbling mud pools, geysers, and traditional performances.
4.Queenstown:
Thrill-seekers will love Queenstown for its range of outdoor activities, from bungee jumping and skydiving to skiing and jet boating.
5.Hobbiton:
Visit the enchanting movie set of Hobbiton, where scenes from "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies were filmed.
6.Abel Tasman National Park:
Explore pristine beaches, lush forests, and coastal tracks perfect for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
7.Franz Josef Glacier:
Witness the majestic Franz Josef Glacier on the West Coast, where you can take guided walks or even heli-hike onto the glacier itself.
8.Waitomo Glowworm Caves:
Marvel at the mesmerizing glowworms that illuminate these underground caves, creating a magical experience.
9.Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park:
Discover New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook, surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery and hiking trails.
10.Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland:
Immerse yourself in colorful geothermal landscapes, including the famous Champagne Pool and Lady Knox Geyser..
Conclusion :
Exploring New Zealand's stunning landscapes, rich Maori culture, and adventurous spirit is an experience like no other. With an array of exhilarating attractions, 2023 promises to be an exceptional year for tourism in this breathtaking country.
From the ethereal glowworm caves of Waitomo to the adrenaline-pumping adventures in Queenstown, New Zealand offers something for every traveler. The majestic beauty of Milford Sound, the vibrant city life of Auckland, and the tranquil beaches of the Bay of Islands are just a few highlights awaiting your discovery. However, before embarking on your journey to this enchanting land, ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including your New Zealand visa. This essential step will ensure a seamless and stress-free adventure, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders that New Zealand has to offer.
Read More-: China visa
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Exploring the Mystical Depths: Current Popular Caving Locations
As the sun sets and the world above quiets down, a hidden realm awaits beneath our feet. Caving, or spelunking, invites us to venture into the Earth’s secret chambers, where ancient formations and untold stories await. Here are some of the most captivating caving destinations around the globe:
Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand
Located in Waitomo, New Zealand, these caves are home to the mesmerizing Arachnocampa luminosa glowworms. Their luminescent bodies create a unique light pattern, turning the cave into a celestial wonderland. Take a boat trip to witness this natural light show up close.
Barton Creek Cave, Belize
Nestled in the Cayo District of Belize, Barton Creek Cave is both a tourist attraction and an archaeological site. Its giant passages stretch over 21,000 feet, adorned with massive speleothems. Dive into the underground river for an unforgettable experience.
Harrison’s Cavern, Barbados
Barbados’s Harrison’s Cavern, shaped by water erosion, boasts unusual stalagmites and stalactites. Explore its cathedral-like chambers, where calcium-rich water has sculpted otherworldly formations. A tram tour takes you through this subterranean wonder.
Marble Caves, Chile
Carved by the turquoise waters of General Carrera Lake, the Marble Caves in Chile are a surreal sight. The swirling patterns on the walls create an ethereal ambiance. Visit during sunrise or sunset for magical reflections.
Son Doong Cave, Vietnam
As the largest cave in the world by volume, Son Doong is a jaw-dropping wonder. Its massive chambers stretch for 9 kilometers, reaching heights of 200 meters. Prepare for an otherworldly adventure deep within the Vietnamese jungle.
#adventure#funny caving#exploration#spelunking#outdoors#nature#escape#wanderlust#thrill#underground#discovery#subterranean#adventure seeker#escapism#wanderer
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