Safety

Regulations
The Waitomo Experience has a Safety Management System audited and certified by AdventureMark against the Safety Audit Standard for Adventure Activities, governed by WorkSafe NZ.

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Our staff
Our staff undergo extensive training, ensuring they meet the highest standards. Your safety is our top priority and our guides take pride in being the best in the business.

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Photography
We do not allow customers to bring their own cameras, GoPro’s etc. We want you to be able to enjoy the cave in all its natural beauty without the distraction of trying to take photos or videos while on the tour. This is for your own safety and to avoid any liability should you damage any of your own valuable equipment. Our guides will capture photos of you throughout the adventure and send these photos to you free of charge at the end of your tour. Please note, our guides primary focus is your safety, they will not prioritise photos over safety. We are not professional photographers but rest assured we will endeavour to capture some epic photos of you on your adventure.

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Physical Requirements
We aim to make the Okahua Glowworm Cave tour accessible to almost anyone, however the cave is completely natural. There are no footpaths, no handrails and no easy options to get out once in the cave. Our tour, although breathtaking requires physical effort and may be strenuous to some people. The terrain is uneven and you will be required to walk, crawl, climb, swim and navigate natural obstacles on our tour.

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We ask that all of our participants meet these requirements:
- Minimum weight of 45kg
- Maximum weight of 130kg
- Minimum age of 12
- Adult supervision (18 or older) for any participants aged 12 - 16
- Step up 50cm unaided
- Climb onto a 1m high object unaided
- Climb a ladder unaided
- Hike 2km in rough terrain
- Not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Be comfortable in deep water. You do not need to be a confident swimmer however deep water is unavoidable on our tour.

If we believe you fail to meet these requirements, we reserve the right to refuse your participation on the tour, resulting in forfeiture of the ticket price.

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These requirements are in place for your safety. Please ensure you meet all requirements to guarantee your tour with us at The Waitomo Experience.
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Pre-existing medical conditions
All pre-existing medical conditions must be disclosed to our staff upon arrival. It is important this information is disclosed for your safety and for those on your tour. Most minor medical conditions will not preclude participation.

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If you suffer from any of the pre-existing medical conditions listed below, please contact our team before booking your Okahua Glowworm Cave tour:

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- Epilepsy
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Heart conditions
- Head injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Recent or regular dislocations
- Artificial limbs
- Serious mobility issues
- Neurological disorders
- Serious visual or auditory impairment

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Flooding
Like most caves in Waitomo, the Okahua cave can occasionally flood. The Waitomo Experience regularly monitors weather conditions and water levels to ensure you have a safe experience with us. We operate under a traffic light system which is updated daily to ensure our staff are informed and educated on current water levels in the cave.

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Green traffic light: The water level in the cave is well below cut off level, with no forecast rain. All tours can go ahead as normal. Orange traffic light: The water level is higher than average but below cut off level in the cave and/ or rain is forecast which may affect water levels in the cave. Tours can go ahead but might be rescheduled/cancelled on short notice if safety is a concern. Red traffic light: The water level is above cut off level and/ or a severe rain event is forecast, which may take water levels above the cut off level. Tours will be rescheduled and cancelled.

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We understand how frustrating it can be to have a tour cancelled while on a trip of a lifetime. Unfortunately, we do not control the weather but please be assured we take no pleasure in cancelling our tours. These decisions are not made lightly but ultimately your safety is our priority.

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In the event of the cave flooding, we will endeavour to work with you to reschedule your experience with us. If rescheduling Is not an option, a full refund will be offered.

RISK DISCLOSURE STATEMENT:

Important Information for Participants

Thank you for choosing to join The Waitomo Experience – The Okahua Glowworm Cave tour. We are committed to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. To ensure your safety, please follow the instructions of our team at all times. While we undertake rigorous audits and work to national standards, there are inherent risks involved with caving. 

Inherent Risks

Caving is an adventure activity that takes place in a natural and unpredictable environment. Potential risks include, but are not limited to:

Water-related hazards: Swift currents, submerged objects, changes in water levels, deep water and cold-water temperatures.

Environmental hazards: uneven surfaces, slippery rocks, confined spaces, darkness, falling debris and natural disasters.

Physical strain: The activity may involve walking, climbing, and manoeuvring through tight spaces.

Wildlife encounters: Potential interactions with insects, birds, or other wildlife.

Equipment failure: Although we maintain our equipment to high standards, there is a small risk of failure.

Equipment misuse: Follow all instructions given by our guides, to ensure equipment is used correctly.

Weather conditions: Sudden changes in weather, including rain or temperature drops, can increase risks.

These inherent risks and hazards include but are not limited to; falling, drowning, slipping, hypothermia, rockfall injuries, natural disasters, mental distress, bruising, physical tiredness and delayed access to medical facilities. 

Participant Responsibilities

1. Health and Fitness: Participants must be in good physical health and disclose any medical conditions, injuries, or medications that may affect their ability to participate.
2. Safety Instructions: Follow all instructions and guidance provided by our guides. Failure to do so may increase the risk of harm.
3. Personal Judgement: Assess your comfort level with the activity and communicate any concerns to our team.
4. Proper Attire: Wear suitable swimwear and socks that can get wet. Wetsuits, helmets, lights and gumboots will be provided and must be worn at all times.

Guided Experience

Our guides are trained professionals who prioritize your safety. They will provide a thorough safety briefing, demonstrate techniques, and assist you throughout the activity.

Acknowledgment of Risk

By signing this form or participating in the activity, you confirm that:

• You understand the risks involved in caving.
• You agree to follow all safety instructions provided by the guides.
• You are participating voluntarily and at your own risk.
• You confirm you are not impaired by alcohol, recreational drugs or prescribed medication.

If you have any questions or concerns about this activity, please discuss them with our team before participating. Your safety and satisfaction are our priority.

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