Frequently asked questions

What do we need to bring when Underworld Rafting?

Just your swimwear, a towel, and some warm clothes for afterwards. Waterproof cameras are optional at your own risk (but we'll take ours through and take plenty of pics which are FREE to download after your tour!)

What time do we need to meet at the Cafe?

If you are attending the Underworld Rafting Tour, please meet at the Adventure Centre in Charleston 30 minutes before the tour starts. For the GlowWorm Cave Tour, please meet 15 minutes beforehand. This will allow time for registration and briefings.

Where are you?

We are based at the Adventure Centre and Cafe on the main highway in the historic town of Charleston, in the untamed natural wilderness of the West Coast of New Zealand. From Westport follow State Highway 67 for 5km, then turn right onto State Highway 6 South for a further 20km. From Greymouth or Punakaiki, follow State Highway 6 North.

What time are the tours?

For Summer we are running 9am and 11:30am time slots for both Underworld Rafting, the Glow Worm Cave Tour and the Nile River Rainforest Train. Our Winter timetable (outside of Daylight Savings time) is a 10AM departure.

How long do the tours go for?

Please allow 3.5-4h for the GlowWorm Cave Adventure, 4h for the Underworld Rafting and around 90 minutes for the Nile River Rainforest Train.

What is the age limit?

Underworld Rafting has a strict age limit of 10 years or older. Any age is okay for the Glow Worm Cave Tour if they are able to walk unassisted uneven surfaces for 1-2 hours. Please note that back/front packs and strollers for infants are not appropriate for these cave adventures.

How hard is the adventure? Is it a tight squeeze?

Both Cave adventures require a Medium level of physical activity. You are walking on natural cave surfaces, bending down for low points in the cave, stepping up onto and down from steps and ledges, and using your hands for support at multiple points within the cave. There are no handrails or man-made paths and walking/trekking poles are not permitted. There are no squeezes and you do not have to crawl or climb at any point.

What's your cancellation policy?

Cancellations or changes made more than 24h prior to departure may be made at no cost, with refund of deposit or any monies paid (less any booking fees). Cancellations or no-shows within 24h of departure may attract the full value of the reservation. If inclement weather conditions result in us cancelling the tour at any time prior to departure, then a full refund will be supplied.