Macleans College geographers study Waitomo Caves

The students were excited to see carbonation first-hand after learning about the process as part of the ‘rocks and weathering’ topic.

The class split into two groups, appropriately named the ‘stalactites’ and the ‘stalagmites’. While one group went underground to see limestone formations, the others went zip-lining above karst landscape that had been formed as a result of those very formations.

The students were fascinated to step into the caves and see columns that had taken millions of years to form. Apart from limestone, they also saw glow worms during a boat ride in the main cave and weta that were fast asleep in the Aranui cave.

The zip-lining experience was enjoyed too - donned with helmets, harnesses and two layers of protective gloves, students learnt quickly and were zooming high across the karst scenery in no time. The zip-lining instructors also pointed out fossils that had been preserved in limestone around the area.

After a quick lunch break and completing the activities on the agenda, the class got back on the bus for the ride home. It was a busy but fun-filled day, and all students appreciated the opportunity to get outside the classroom to view the unique landscape of Waitomo.

Many thanks to Mrs Glasgow-Palmer and Mr Percival for accompanying the class and making this field trip possible.