Aucklands Lava Caves
One of the unique things about Auckland is that its built on 55 volcanoes. Which means there are also a huge amount of lava rift caves which are hidden below homes, business and schools. Some of them got filled with heaps of rubbish before being sealed, whereas some got filled in by the contracting company before anyones could even begin to try and protect them. (ASCOT HOSPITAL)
We first started exploring Lava caves in 2011. I was lucky enough to visit the biggest Lava cave known to the public in Auckland in 2012, the Wiri Lava cave which is said to be around 290 meters long. This sort of underground exploring was different from what I was used to, not only was it alot drier but going into a space that was formed up to 45,000 years ago was extremely exciting. I was told by someone else who explored Wiri around the same time as myself that it was far exciting then the paid tour of the Waitomo caves, which are usually quite crowded. See, sometimes a hobby like Urbex pays off as we really do get to see some of the best places, without paying. Wiri Lava cave is a unique location and its a pity its closed off to the public, with a helmet and overalls I can't see why others cannot be enjoying this fantastic cave too. Thanks OSH. Unfortunately at this stage the local council and Iwi are at heads over who should be able to go inside and when, same story with the surrounding land. Pictures below are of Wiri...
-Nathan
