Nettlebed Cave: Crystals In a Pool (Photos)

The crystals in the pool inside Nettlebed Cave are calcite crystals. Calcite is a common mineral that is found in many different environments, including caves. It is formed when calcium carbonate dissolves in water and then recrystallizes.

The crystals in Nettlebed Cave are thought to have formed millions of years ago, when the cave was first formed. The water that flowed through the cave dissolved the calcium carbonate in the rocks, and then the water evaporated, leaving behind the crystals.

The crystals in the pool are a beautiful sight to behold. They are clear and colorless, and they sparkle in the light. The pool is also home to a variety of other cave formations, including stalactites and stalagmites.

Inside Nettlebed Cave

The cave is primarily formed in Arthur Marble, a type of metamorphic rock composed of recrystallized limestone. This limestone was originally deposited as sedimentary rock millions of years ago, likely from the shells of marine organisms. Over time, intense heat and pressure transformed this limestone into marble, giving the cave its characteristic white and grey hues.

Nettlebed Cave, on Mt Arthur in Kahurangi National Park, is New Zealand’s deepest cave at 1174 metres.

Hundreds of metres below the ground, far beyond where natural light has ever penetrated, a group of Kiwi cavers have discovered something small, but significant – a connection between two massive cave systems in the Arthur Mountain range of the South Island of New Zealand.

Nettlebed Cave is a limestone cave located in the Mount Arthur region of the northwest South Island of New Zealand.  Nettlebed Cave was thought to be the deepest cave system in the southern hemisphere. The Nettlebed system is now 1174m of vertical (The deepest in NZ) with the discovery of a new entrance series that was recently connected, and is now the second longest passages at 38.252km.


Nettlebed Cave: Crystals In a Pool (PHOTOS)
Crystal formations in a pool, Photo credit: WHiO Photography


A trip through the cave usually takes two days, and a chamber known as Salvation Hall serves as the sleepover spot. Large systems like Nettlebed took many expeditions and years to explore.

The crystal pool is a popular tourist destination, but it is only accessible to experienced cavers. The cave is located in a remote area and the hike to the entrance is challenging.

Nettlebed Cave Photos

Nettlebed Cave
Crystal formations in a pool, Photo credit: WHiO Photography
Nettlebed Cave
Crystal formations in a pool, Photo credit: WHiO Photography



Inside Nettlebed Cave: Crystals In a Pool (PHOTOS)
Photo credit: Nicolas C. Barth.

Inside Nettlebed Cave: Crystals In a Pool (PHOTOS)
Photo credit: Josep HerrerĂ­as & NĂºria Zendrera
Inside Nettlebed Cave: Crystals In a Pool (PHOTOS)
Photo credit:  Neil Silverwood/Barcroft India
Nettlebed Cave: Crystals In a Pool (PHOTOS)
Photo credit:  Neil Silverwood/Barcroft India

Nettlebed Cave is not just a beautiful natural wonder but also holds valuable scientific information. Studying the cave's geology can provide insights into the region's tectonic history, past climates, and even the evolution of cave life.

See also:
Cave of Crystals "Giant Crystal Cave" at Naica, Mexico
Enormous crystal Geode discovered in Spain
Top Spots For Gem Hunting In The US
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