Ruakuri Cave is the longest cave in the Waitomo area, it was first discovered by local Māori between 400 and 500 years ago. The name Ruakuri, or "den of dogs" was created when wild dogs were discovered making their home in the cave entrance some 300 years later. The cave entrance was used by the Maori as an urupa or burial site. It is this sacred area that has now been protected with the construction of the impressive spiral drum entrance some distance away. Inside there is a dynamic natural environment, with glowworms, limestone formations, underground rivers, and hidden waterfalls.
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