auckland waitomo caves tour

• Waitomo Attractions

Black Water Rafting

• Waitomo Caves Zipline Park

Ruakuri Cave

Aranui cave, waitomo cave tours.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour with Optional Ruakuri Cave Tour

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Join a 45-minute slow-paced guided tour spanning over 250 meters through Waitomo Glowworm Caves' 2 beautifully sculpted underground levels.
• Witness the luminous glowworms light up the Glowworm Grotto like a celestial galaxy, a species unique to New Zealand.
• Take a boat ride through the lower-level streams, encountering glowworms and the towering Cathedral chamber, known for its acoustics.
• Stroll through the upper level and admire the natural formations that adorn the cave walls, ceilings, and floors, dating back 30 million years.
• Listen to the age-old tales about the cave from the descendants of the Maori chief who originally explored the cave.
• Want to go beyond the surface into New Zealand’s longest underground cave system? Opt for a 1.5-hour tour of Ruakuri Cave.
• Maori descendant expert tour guide
• Small group tour
• 45-minute tour of Waitomo Glowworm Caves (optional)
• Boat ride along Waitomo River (optional)
• Guided walk inside Waitomo Grotto (optional)
• Extended 1.5-hour guided walking tour of Ruakuri Cave (optional)
• Exclusive access to deeper and untouched areas of the cave (optional)
• Access to Holdens Cavern, the Drum Passage, the Pretties & the Ghost Passage (optional)
• Up close views of glowworms, stalagmites & stalactites (optional)
• Entry & exit through the grand spiral staircase (optional)

Note: The inclusions may vary depending on the package you select during the next step of your booking.

• Tip: The Visitor Centre only accepts contactless payments. Please use a credit card, Apple Pay, etc. for purchases at the shop and cafe.
• It's recommended to wear a warm jacket along with comfortable shoes.
• Ruakuri Caves are accessible for wheelchair users, in contrast to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves which are accessible to those with reasonable mobility.
• Photography is permitted in designated areas of the Ruakuri Caves. However, in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, photography is strictly prohibited.

From Auckland: Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour

• You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Explore the magical Waitomo Caves on a full-day tour. Opt for a Te Puia upgrade to explore Rotorua's geothermal wonders.
• From Auckland, go on a drive south through the Waikato countryside exploring its beauty with scenic photo stops. Shop for souvenirs at Waitomo's gift shop.
• Visit the glowing caves and geothermal sights with a knowledgeable guide. Discover ancient tales and the intriguing geology of these unique locations.
• Follow your guide into the Waitomo Caves, famous for their stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and limestone columns.
• Venture deeper underground for a boat ride through the dark caves. Marvel at the natural light show created by thousands of glowworms inside.
• With the Te Puia upgrade, see Pohutu Geyser erupt, explore boiling mud pools, visit a Māori village, and observe artisans at the Carving and Weaving Institute.
• Round-trip hotel transfers from Auckland
• Expert guide
• Complimentary snacks & water
• 45-minute guided tour of Waitomo Glowworm Caves:
• Boat ride along Waitomo River
• Guided walk inside Waitomo Grotto
• Transfers to Rotorua (based on option selected)
• 1.5-hour guided tour of Te Puia Geothermal Valley (based on option selected)
• Hotel pickup from Auckland
• Arrive at Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Drive to Rotorua (if opted for)
• Guided tour of Te Puia Geothermal Valley (if opted for)
• Visit National Carving and Weaving Institute (if opted for)
• Visit Maori village (if opted for)
• Hotel drop-off in Auckland
• Photography is not allowed at Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
• This tour is accessible to those with reasonable mobility.
• The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.
• Infants aged 0 to 2 can travel for free if they do not occupy a seat.
• The pick-up and drop-off are available only within the Central Business District Area of Auckland.

Guided Black Water Rafting in Waitomo

• Join a 3-hour rafting adventure exploring the underground river system. See the glowworms light up the limestone caves as you sail in the dark.
• Get fitted with the necessary gears and learn the basics of caving from an expert guide before heading in.
• Witness the glowworms light up the caves, jump off waterfalls, and make your way around the underground formations.
• Let your guide acquaint you with the geology of the limestone caves, the lifecycle of the glowworms, and the ancient traditions of the Maori people.
• Refresh yourself with some complimentary snacks and drinks and get some amazing photos clicked that you can buy later.
• 3-hour underground black water rafting
• Safety equipment (footwear, tubes, wetsuits, helmets, abseiling devices)
• Small group of up to 12 guests
• Arrive at Waitomo Caves
• Safety briefing
• Tubing & black water rafting
• Return to Waitomo Homestead
• All participants on this tour must weigh at least 45 kg.
• Guests aged 12 and under are restricted from participating in this experience.
• The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, pram/stroller users, people with mobility issues, people with back and neck problems, and guests who don't have a moderate fitness level or are too small.
• Prior caving or swimming experience is not required as you will have tubes and will be accompanied by expert guides.
• Bring along your towel and swimwear.
• The water temperature is approximately 10 degrees Celsius.
• Note that the following are not allowed on this tour: camera equipment, tripod, selfie sticks, and GoPros.
• Facilities: Lockers, changing rooms, and hot showers.

From Auckland: Waitomo Caves, Rotorua & Te Puia Guided Tour

• Join a full-day tour from Auckland to Waitomo's glowing caves and Rotorua's geothermal sites. Get hotel transfers from central locations in Auckland.
• Discover intriguing geology and rich cultural stories from your guide as you explore each destination.
• Explore the massive Waitomo Caves on foot with your guide, including a chance to visit Cathedral Cave.
• Hop on a flat bottom boat to step into a magical underground world, lit by thousands of glowworms, mimicking a star-filled sky.
• Head to Te Puia Geothermal Valley, home to the world-famous Pohutu Geyser, boiling mud pools, and steaming vents.
• See Maori artisans at work in the National Carving and Weaving Institute. Then visit a traditional village to experience the Maori culture.
• Round-trip hotel transfers from Auckland on a luxurious vehicle
• Complementary water & snacks
• Transfers to Rotorua
• 1.5-hour guided tour of Te Puia Geothermal Valley
• Kiwi bird-watching
• Visit following locations in Rotorua:
• Pohutu Geysers & boiling mud pools
• Prehistoric Maori village
• National Carving & Weaving Institute
• Drive to Rotorua
• Guided tour of Te Puia Geothermal Valley
• Visit National Carving and Weaving Institute
• Visit Maori village

From Auckland: Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Caves Guided Tour

• You can cancel these tickets up to 72 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Experience the magic of Middle Earth and the glowworms of Waitomo in a day on this combo tour of 2 of New Zealand's iconic attractions.
• Get round-trip transfers from Auckland and enjoy guided tours of Hobbiton and Waitomo, focusing on the scenery, not the map!
• Explore the Hobbiton Movie set. See the Hobbit Holes, The Mill, and The Double Arched Bridge. Sip a drink at the famous pub from the movie.
• Witness Waitomo Caves' ancient limestone cave formations. Cruise along the Waitomo River and watch the glowworms light up the cave.
• Choose a private or a small group tour. Get more privacy and flexibility with a private tour, or join like-minded travelers on the small group tour.
• Expert tour guide
• 2-hour guided tour of Hobbiton Movie Set
• Complimentary crafted beverage at The Green Dragon Inn
• Personal expenses
• Hotel pickup
• Arrive at Hobbiton Movie Set
• Explore Hobbit Holes, The Mill, and The Double Arched Bridge
• Stop for a drink at The Green Dragon Inn
• Drive to Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Depart from Waitomo Caves
• Hotel drop-off
• Infants can travel for free if they do not occupy a seat.

Ruakuri Cave Guided Tour

• Explore the magical Ruakari Cave on the longest guided underground walking tour in Waitomo Caves.
• Witness the cave walls lit up by thousands of bio-luminescent worms on a dreamy 1.5-hour walk.
• Take jaw-dropping pictures as you learn about the glowworms from your expert tour guide.
• Admire the limestone structures and crystals that decorate the cave, from the spiral entrance to the hidden chambers.
• Listen to the musical burbles of distant waterfalls that add to this extraordinary experience.
• 1.5-hour guided walking tour in Ruakuri Cave
• Access to Holdens Cavern, the Drum Passage, the Pretties & the Ghost Passage
• Photography and video are permitted in selected areas of the cave.
• It's recommended to wear a warm jacket along with comfortable shoes as this experience involves a fair amount of walking.
• This experience is wheelchair accessible and has pram/stroller accessibility.
• Wheelchair/stroller width must not exceed 65cm.

Aranui Cave Guided Tour

• Explore the smallest and most delicate of Waitomo's caves – the Aranui Cave on a 1-hour walking tour.
• With the help of a guide, experience the beautiful scenic beauty inside of caves and learn more about the native culture.
• Take a scenic stroll through the Ruakuri Scenic Reserve leading to the hidden entrance of Aranui Cave.
• Witness the native cave wetas, a unique sight in this dark, dry haven. The cave houses little life beyond its entrance with no water flowing through it.
• Get a glimpse of the long, narrow chambers of the Waitomo cave and Aranui's high chambers, adorned with white, pink, and brown stalactites.
• 1-hour guided walking tour in Aranui Cave
• Access to Ruakuri Scenic Reserve
• Photography and video are permitted inside the cave.

Waitomo’s Black Abyss Guided Tour with Black Water Rafting & Zip Lining

• Experience the ultimate cave adventure in New Zealand's Waitomo Caves with the Black Water rafting and ziplining tour.
• On this adrenaline-packed cave tour, enjoy a mix of abseiling, flying fox activities, climbing, and floating through an other-worldly cave system.
• Learn from expert guides how to use abseiling and tubing equipment and skills in the cave. Enjoy a delicious snack in the cave.
• Descend 35 meters into the depths of the Ruakuri Cave and zip-line through a passage illuminated by glow worms.
• Marvel at the glow worms that light up the ceiling as you float on a tube through the subterranean river.
• Challenge yourself by climbing over rocks and up waterfalls, and witness the breathtaking beauty of the cave formations.
• 5-hour underground cave adventure (training, abseiling, zip lining, rafting, rock climbing)
• Complimentary photos
• Small group of up to 8 guests
• Towels (available at extra cost)
• Any other meals and drinks
• Abseil 35 meters into the Ruakuri Cave
• Snack break
• Guests aged 16 and under are restricted from participating in this experience.

Waitomo Caves Zipline Park Tickets

• Zipline over Waitomo Caves' native forests and limestone cliffs. Enjoy 2 hours of non-stop adventure in the park.
• Enjoy the scenic views of the area as you glide through the air on 10 ziplines in a 1km circuit.
• Learn how to control the zipline gear with the help of professional guides.
• Build your confidence on the lower and slower ziplines before making your way to the longest and fastest one.
• Master the technique and zip down the longest zipline, which is 280 meters long and reaches speeds up to 80km/hr.
• Access to 10 zip lines in a 1km circuit
• 2-hour access to Waitomo Caves Zipline Park
• Safety equipment & briefing
• The zipline has a maximum weight limit of 120 kilograms.
• For families with children, the minimum age requirement is 8 years old, and younger children will need active assistance from an adult.
• Groups with participants under the age of 18 must have at least 1 adult participating in the adventure.

Top things to do in Waitomo

Waitomo Glowworm Cave Tours | New Zealand's 30 Million Years Old Bioluminescent Underworld 

Deep within the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island lies the Waitomo Glowworm Caves — an intricate network of subterranean passages dating back over 30 million years. It’s not just any cave system; it's a constellation of shimmering glowworms native only to New Zealand, majestic rock formations, and ancient Maori legends. Its discovery in 1887 by Maori Chieftain Tane Tinorau unveiled a hidden world, forever etching the Waitomo Caves onto the map of New Zealand's must-see destinations. Did you know that Waitomo is a compound word in the Maori language meaning water (wai) and entrance or hole (tomo)?

Read on to find everything you’ll need to plan your perfect Waitomo journey. From choosing the right tour to discovering hidden points of interest, and other essential information— we’ve got you covered.

Why tour the Waitomo Glowworm Caves?

Thousands of glowworms, native only to New Zealand

Picture yourself gliding under thousands of tiny glowworms, Arachnocampa luminosa, that drape the caverns in an ethereal blue-green luminescence, It’s a starry sky trapped beneath the earth. And the best part? You’ll only find this species here.

30 million years in geological making

See how geological activity has played a part in making over 300 limestone caves. Watch stalactites and stalagmites that have been slowly and naturally sculpted by water alone, for over 30 million years. Fun fact: The average stalactite grows only one millimeter every 100 years and they are very delicate.

Learn Maori lore, directly from the source

Led by a descendant of Chieftain Tane Tinorau, discoverer of the caves, your tour will unveil stories of taniwha, guardians of underworld rivers, atua, Maori gods shaping the caverns, and Tane, god of forests, illuminating the caves with glowworms, adding cultural richness to your experience.

Curated adventures for every spirit

Thrill seekers, assemble! Navigate heart-pounding rapids in Ruakuri Cave with only your headlamp. Nature lovers, witness the bioluminescent ballet of Glowworm Grotto. History buffs, learn Maori legends from the discoverer's descendants. Cinephiles, explore the Lord of the Rings set! Waitomo offers adventures for every explorer.

Daredevil’s delight: Guided blackwater rafting, abseiling, & ziplining fun

While the glowworms are the highlights, Waitomo also beckons bold adventurers. Brave the Black Abyss's churning rapids on a blackwater rafting expedition. Zip through hidden canyons, with sunlight slicing through darkness. Challenge yourself with an exhilarating abseil descent, headlamp piercing the pitch-black darkness.

Things to know before booking your Waitomo Glowworm Cave Tour

• If you’re staying in Auckland: Go for a guided Waitomo day tour with transfers.  Get more bang for your buck and choose to visit the geothermal valleys of Rotorua & Te Puia or see the sets of Hobbiton.  
• If you’re staying at Waitomo: Join your guided tour and adventure activities directly. For a seamless experience, you can choose a combo experience including a cave-guided tour with rafting, and ziplining.
• Tricky Waitomo roads: Navigating from Auckland to Waitomo involves winding roads through rolling hills and farmland. Make the most of the scenic views on the way with hassle-free round-trip hotel transfers (private transfers available) from Auckland. You won't have to worry about navigation or parking.
• No prior experience is required for adventure activities: Your tickets and tours come with expert guides who’ll be with you every step of the way. You don’t need to be familiar with caving, rafting, or ziplining. Also, all equipment will be provided.
• Adventure activity restrictions: Some adventure activities may have certain restrictions, Please check the height, weight, age, and other requirements during your booking process. Pregnant women may not be allowed on some adventure activities.
• Accessibility: The Ruakuri and Aranui caves are wheelchair accessible.
• Above-ground delights for travelers with constraints: If you have concerns about extreme claustrophobia or darkness, go for aboveground adventures that offer an equally enriching and comfortable experience.

Explore Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Cave

Journey beneath a galaxy of bioluminescent glowworms in the Glowworm Grotto, a structure dating back 30 million years.

Explore ancient canyons & hidden chambers in New Zealand's 1st solar-powered cave tour. Thrills meet sustainability!

Also known as "Cathedral Cave", it's one of the smaller caves with no water. It houses a rare array of white, pink, and brown stalactites and stalagmites.

Gloworms, the Black Abyss, Ruakuri & Aranui Caves — what to expect during your Waitomo Glowworm Cave tour

Waitomo isn't just a place, it’s an intersection of geology, biology, adventure, and culture. But with so much to see, where do you begin? Let's dive into the heart of this subterranean wonderland and the treasures you’ll uncover during your visit.

These 30 million-year-old limestone caves are adorned with thousands of Arachnocampa luminosa, unique bioluminescent glowworms native to New Zealand. Each emits a greenish-blue light, similar to fireflies. Though, unlike fireflies, Waitomo glowworms don't flicker creating a steadfast, luminous spectacle on cave ceilings.

Top things to do at Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Caving Guided Tours

Explore fascinating caverns adorned with shimmering glowworms. Learn about geological wonders and Maori legends from a descendant of the Maori Chief who discovered the caves.

Navigate churning rapids in Ruakuri Cave's hidden abyss, lit by headlamps. Discover glowworm chambers in this thrilling adventure.

Glide along a 280-meter zipline, reaching speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour. Witness the passage illuminated by glowworms from an aerial vantage point.

Test your courage rappelling down sheer cliffs within the Ruakuri Cave system, feel the cool spray of cave waterfalls as you conquer the challenging descent.

Waitomo Trail Run

Waitomo Trail Run stands out for its scenic routes through farmland, native bush, and even caves, offering diverse challenges and a unique underground adventure for runners of all levels.

Waitomo Falls

Navigate a challenging caving expedition through interconnected chambers in Ruakuri Cave. Master tight squeezes and climbs, discovering hidden formations unseen by most.

Black Labyrinth

Black Labyrinth in Waitomo Caves challenges experienced cavers with tight squeezes, hidden wonders, and technical maneuvers, offering an intense & thrilling subterranean adventure.

Plan Your Visit to Waitomo Glowworm Caves

• Waitomo Glowworm Cave guided tours: Slots from 9:20 AM to 5 PM (daily)
• Guided Tour with Black Water Rafting & Zip Lining: 9 AM and 2:30 PM (daily)
• Black Water Rafting: 9 AM and 2:30 PM (daily)
• Ruakuri/Aranui Cave guided tours: Slots from 10 AM to 3:30 PM (daily)
• Waitomo Cave Zipline Park: Slots from 9 AM to 2 PM (daily)
• Day trips from Aukland (with transfers): Departures from 6 AM, 7 AM, 8 AM

Best time to visit: For sunny adventures, visit Waitomo Caves in spring or summer, but expect more people. Autumn is pleasant with fewer crowds. In winter, enjoy thrilling caving and great deals, though it's cooler. Early mornings maximize glowworm brilliance, and evenings enchant with a transition to bioluminescence.  Ultimately, the perfect time for you depends on your priorities – choose warmth, solitude, or specific activities to plan your dream Waitomo getaway!

Address: 39 Waitomo Village Road, Waitomo Caves 3977, New Zealand

Find on Maps

• Auckland day-trip transfers: Forget planning, and enjoy end-to-end transfers from Auckland to Waitomo Caves with luxury coaches or private vehicle options. Also, get hotel pick-ups and drop-offs.
• By train: The Northern Explorer runs once per day from Auckland to Wellington, stopping at Otorohanga station near Waitomo. Shuttle connections to the caves are available. This option takes longer, though. 
• By plane: Taupo Airport is the nearest regional airport with connections from major cities. Hire a car or book an airport shuttle to reach Waitomo (an additional 1.5-hour drive).
• By car: Navigate a  3-hour scenic route via SH1 and SH3 providing stunning landscapes. From Rotorua, a 1.5-hour drive via SH5 is faster.

Forget logistical juggles, embrace Waitomo with ease! Here's why you should consider an Auckland to Waitomo day trip with transfers:

• Door-to-Cave convenience: Skip transport stress! Opt for hotel pick-up in Auckland and arrive relaxed, and full of energy to explore the caves.
• Reserved round-trip bliss: With the convenience of just 1 ticket, enjoy seamless transfers in spacious, modern coaches. Your journey becomes part of the thrill, not a pre-adventure hurdle.
• Luxury at your fingertips: Prefer going privately or solo? Opt for exclusive vehicle transfers and experience Waitomo on your terms.
• Unrivaled views. Guaranteed comfort: Gaze at rolling hills, farmlands, and dramatic cliffs. Plush seats keep you comfy as you soak in the scenery. And, you get to recharge with additional complimentary snacks and drinks.
• Go beyond the caves : Craving more Kiwi magic? Enhance your trip with add-ons like geothermal wonders at Te Puia, Rotorua's bubbling mud pools, or even a whimsical sojourn at the Hobbiton movie set.

Luxury: Waitomo Top 10 Holiday Park

Mid-range: Woodlyn Park Motel , Abseil Inn

Budget: Waitomo Orchard B&B , Waitomo Caves Hotel

If you’re looking to explore the F&B scene at Waitomo, here are some places to check out:

• Waitomo Homestead: Take a break at this cafe with gardens as you enjoy the scenic view of Waitomo. Be sure to try their pies. 
• Tomo Bar & Eatery:   Lively and stylish, this spot offers delectable modern cuisine, cocktails, and craft beers. You also get to grill your food at the table. Enjoy live music on weekends. 
• Te Kuiti Bakery: A local favorite, this bakery offers classic Kiwi pies, sandwiches, and sweet pastries. Perfect for a quick and satisfying bite.
• King Street Kitchen: This takeaway shop offers affordable fish & chips, kebabs, pizzas, and burgers. Ideal for a quick and budget-conscious meal.

• Visitor information office: Obtain needed information from here.
• Lockers : Lockers are offered at the visitor center, but they may be limited in number, especially during peak season. Consider bringing a small day bag for valuables you want to keep with you.
• Showers and changing rooms: Showers and changing rooms are primarily available for black water rafting participants and other water-based activities.
• Safety equipment: Helmets, life jackets, wetsuits, and other safety gear are provided for black water rafting, abseiling, and other adventure activities. Guides provide instructions and safety briefings before each activity.
• Gift shop: Find souvenirs, books, and glowworm-themed goodies.
• Public restrooms: Well-maintained restrooms are available throughout the property.
• Car park: Plenty of parking is available on-site.
• Picnic area: Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the scenic surroundings.

• Flash Photography: Flash photography is strictly prohibited. It can harm the glowworms and disrupt their bioluminescent activity.
• Photography Restrictions: Photography may be restricted in certain areas. Always follow any posted signs or instructions from guides,
• Don't touch anything inside the caves: This includes cave formations, glowworms, and any wildlife you may encounter.
• Use provided equipment properly: Wear helmets, life jackets, and any other gear provided for specific activities. Follow instructions from guides and ensure your safety throughout the tour.
• Stay on Marked Paths: Don't venture off designated walkways. This helps protect the cave environment and prevents accidents. Stick to the guided paths and appreciate the formations from safe distances.
• Food and Drink: Eating and drinking are prohibited inside the caves. This helps maintain cleanliness and prevent harmful waste from entering the delicate ecosystem.
• Smoking and Vaping: Strictly prohibited anywhere on the Waitomo Caves property.

• Warm layers and gear: It can get chilly at the cave with temperatures 12-14°C (54-59°F), so pack a sweater or fleece jacket, especially if you tend to get cold easily. Pack a raincoat or waterproof jacket in case of rain.
• Extra change of clothes: Especially for more adventurous activities like black water rafting, bring a dry set of clothes and towels for afterward.
• Comfortable shoes with good grip: You'll be walking around inside the caves, so choose sturdy shoes with good tread to navigate damp surfaces. 
• Compact backpack: Bringing a small backpack allows you to carry essentials like extra layers, snacks, medicines, and water.
• Waterproof pouch/dry bag: Protect your phone, camera, and valuables from accidental splashes with a waterproof pouch or dry bag, especially important for river tours.
• Baby carrier: The caves aren't stroller-friendly, so bring a comfortable baby carrier if you have young children.
• Cashless transactions only: The shops at Waitomo Caves only accept digital cashless transactions. Ensure your digital wallet is loaded in case you need to make a purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions about Waitomo Glowworm Cave Tours

There are various tours, including guided cave explorations, black water rafting, ziplining, and abseiling at Waitomo Caves. You can also opt for a guided tour from Auckland with transfers and add-on sights like Te Puia and Hobbiton movie set tours. Each caters to different preferences, from serene walks to thrilling adventures.

Tour durations vary. Guided cave tours typically last around 1 hour to 90 minutes. Adventure activities like black water rafting or ziplining may take longer, depending on the chosen package. Day trips from Auckland to Waitomo typically last anywhere from 7 hours to 12 hours, depending on your type of tour.

Depending on your choice of tour, you get to enjoy benefits like a guided tour of the caves led by a direct descendant of the Maori Chief who founded the caves, adventure activities like black water rafting or ziplining, and access to specific caves such as the Waitomo Glowworm Cave, Ruakuri Cave, or Aranui Cave. If your tour is from Auckland, you’ll enjoy luxury transfers with private transfer options, hotel pick-ups & drop-offs, additional sights, expert guides, complimentary snacks & beverages, and more.

Costs vary depending on the type of tour and activities chosen. Guided cave tours usually start from NZD 75.

Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy, non-slip shoes. For adventure activities, bring a swimsuit, towel, and an extra change of clothes. Also, carry warm layers as caves can get chilly, and a waterproof jacket in case of rain.

Bring essentials like a compact backpack, water, snacks, extra layers, and a waterproof pouch for valuables.

For thrill-seekers, engage in blackwater rafting through the churning rapids of the Black Abyss, zip-line through hidden canyons with glowworms illuminating the path, or experience an exhilarating abseil descent into the depths of the caves, with your headlamp cutting through the darkness.

The Ruakuri and Aranui caves are wheelchair accessible. Aboveground adventures provide a comfortable experience for those with concerns about claustrophobia or darkness.

For sunny adventures, visit in spring or summer. Autumn offers pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds. Winter provides thrilling caving experiences and the best deals, though it's cooler. Early mornings maximize glowworm brilliance, and evenings enchant with bioluminescence.

Flash photography is strictly prohibited as it can harm the glowworms. Follow the guides' instructions on photography restrictions in certain areas.

Yes, tours generally operate in various weather conditions.

Guided commentaries are typically available in English.

Access Waitomo with a day-trip transfer from Auckland. Go for private vehicle transfers or luxury coaches offer convenience and scenic views. You can also go by car, train (Northern Explorer), or via plane (via Taupo Airport).

• Our Unique Tours
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Are you ready?

To be spellbound..

New Zealand’s brightest glowworm cave experience. Our tours are safe and completely suitable for everyone from young children to older folk. Bring a camera for some photos and let us give you wonderful memories of Waitomo. Discover something new.

Waitomo's Brightest Glowworm Cave as filmed by Sir David Attenborough and the BBC!

Glowworm and cave explorer

Adult $75 NZD Child $26 NZD - 0 to 14 yrs

Glowworm cave essential

Adult: $64 NZD Children: $22 NZD - 0 to 14 yrs

Spellbound Private Tour

A private tour ensures that you enjoy an exclusive tour all to yourselves!

Camera friendly

Suitable for all ages.

Formerly Glowing Adventures. We're now Down to Earth! Learn more...

Explore a World of Glow Worms with our Private Cave Tours on our Family Farm!

We're totally committed to regenerative sustainable tourism.

We're dead serious about doing our bit for Mother Nature here at Down to Earth. Check out what we've been up to.

Forest Restoration

Since 2018, for every awesome customer who's dropped by, we've planted a native tree. Yep, that's right, you're helping us grow an actually real life forest! Learn more …

Carbon Footprint

We're stoked to say that we're keeping our carbon footprint on the down-low. We keep tabs on all the CO2 stuff we emit in our day-to-day operations. Learn more …

River Guardians

We've put up some fences to protect our precious waterways. Clean water = happy vibes! Learn more …

Pest Control

Our trapping program is a hit! The native bush and birdlife are doing their happy dances thanks to us. Talk about making new bird friends! Learn more …

No to Single-Use Plastic

If you're passing by with an empty water bottle, stop in and say hi. We've got fresh, filtered tap water to fill 'er up, free of charge. Learn more …

#1 glow worm cave tour in Waitomo

Don’t take our word for it. We love welcoming visitors from across New Zealand and the world and we get some "glowing" reviews. On Trip Advisor we are the #1 rated glow worm cave tour in Waitomo, and many overseas visitors say it was the highlight of their trip to New Zealand.

Why wait? Book your adventure today and choose from our fantastic eco tour options: ”Off the Beaten Track” eco tour , Private tour or Photography tour . We can’t wait to meet you.

Cameras welcome

You are welcome to bring along a small, pocket-sized camera or your trusty phone to capture the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand. If you're a photography enthusiast, you'll be delighted to know that on our private Photography Tour , you can even bring your larger camera and tripod to capture the perfect shot.

Off the beaten track

No stuffy tour buses or queues here! Our guided tours are for small groups of 8, so you can enjoy an up close and personal experience at your own pace. We’ll even email you awesome photos of your adventure afterwards for FREE!

Our caves are world famous

Waitomo boasts over 300 caves, but ours is one of just two cave systems classified as "of international significance" by New Zealand's Department of Conservation. Trust us, you're about to meet some very important glow worms!

An authentic eco experience

Prepare for a genuine, authentic caving adventure that takes you to untouched glow worm caves and reveals stunning limestone formations in their purest state. Forget about fancy gadgets like electric lights or handrails – we're all about keeping our glow worms happy.

Just the right amount of adventure

Our tours are designed to be incredibly fun and adventurous. Our experienced guides customize the tour to match your group's preferences, ensuring you'll be both challenged and thrilled with just the right level of adventure for your abilities.

Proudly Kiwi owned and operated

Our family has lived in Waitomo for over 100 years. We grew up exploring the incredible glow worm caves and pristine native bush on our family farm, and now we love sharing our piece of paradise with you.

• Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves Day Tour with Lunch

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Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves day tour from Auckland

Visit two iconic New Zealand attractions with this small group day tour to Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glow Worm Caves . The day includes a fully guided tour of the Hobbiton movie, including the NEW Explore inside a Hobbit Hole feature followed by a sumptuous lunchtime feast in the Party Marquee . This is followed by a guided tour of the Waitomo Caves with a boat ride through the glowworm grotto.

Our experienced guides look after you all day from pick up to drop off at your inner Auckland City accommodation. Enjoy full commentary on the way with insights into the areas you are travelling through and background to both Hobbiton and Waitomo caves.

Our first stop on the way to Hobbiton is at a small café – a chance to get a quick snack or coffee if you need it. Then we are off to Hobbiton Movie set, where you will be driven down to the set itself and have one of the specialist Hobbiton guides take you on a walking tour around the 44 Hobbit holes . You will  see the Party Tree and stand by the gate to Bilbo’s house ‘Bag End’ overlooking the whole set to the hills in the distance.

A highlight of the tour is the (New from 1st December) opportunity to go inside a Hobbit Hole. You will have the chance to explore inside a Hobbit home ! For example – try out a hobbit sized bed, sit at the dining table and check out the amazing detail that has gone into this creation .

Before your buffet lunch feast in the Party Marquee (which is included in the price) enjoy a complimentary ale, cider or ginger beer in the Green Dragon Inn . After lunch we’ll give you a $10 souvenir voucher to spend at the Hobbiton gift shop before we continue on to Waitomo caves. The drive to Waitomo Caves continues through beautiful countryside.

At Waitomo Glow Worm Caves one of their experienced guides will take you on a walking tour through the caves and talk about the limestone formations and the glowworms. At the end of the cave tour you take the iconic boat ride to glide along through the world famous glowworm grotto (subject to water levels). Marvel in silence at thousands of magical glow worms glowing overhead, a unique experience, before exiting the cave.

After your tour at Waitomo, return to Auckland with an afternoon tea stop on the way (own cost).

Bush and Beach have been running small group day tours from Auckland for 39 years so you are in very experienced hands. Our fleet of modern vehicles mean you will be comfortable all day.

“What a treat to travel to Hobbiton with Bush and Beach! It was an easy, fun trip with some nice extra perks that the other companies don’t seem to have. ” – Trip Advisor review

Tour code BB6 – $450 per adult

Some of the highlights of the hobbiton and waitomo caves day tour.

When you book on line you have the option to contribute to our  sustainability commitment  by donating $5 which will get a native tree planted on your behalf. We are working with  Trees That Count and their community-based planting projects to donate native trees to be planted in Auckland. (Bush and Beach will match your donation, which means every $5 donation from you equals a native tree planted in Auckland.)

Tour includes:

• Sumptuous buffet lunch in the Hobbiton Party Marquee
• Explore the inside of a Hobbit Hole
• Free Hobbiton souvenir voucher
• Admission and guided tour of Hobbiton Movie Set
• Admission and guided tour of Waitomo caves
• Boat ride through the glowworm grotto at Waitomo caves
• Return transport with full commentary from Auckland
• Bush and Beach guide with you for the whole day
• Ale, cider or ginger beer at the Green Dragon Inn
• Pick up and drop off at inner city accommodation

Operates 364 days of the year.

Child price for ages 5-14

There are staircases inside Waitomo Caves with approx. 75 stairs

Food or drinks at the morning and afternoon tea stops are at your own expense

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance –  learn more

If you just want to visit Hobbiton movie set from Auckland then check out our Hobbiton Express Tour .

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• About this activity

Waitomo Glowworm Cave Experience - Small Group Tour from Auckland

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Selective hotel pickup

Join us on a small group day tour from Auckland to visit one of New Zealand's most iconic and famous attractions, the amazing Waitomo Caves, where you'll be in awe of the cave formations and the thousands of Glowworms sparkling above you. The subterranean cave system is most unforgettable sightseeing experience as you walk through majestic caverns, exploring limestone shafts, marvelling at the stalactites and stalagmites and ride a boat beneath thousands of tiny glow-worms that inhabit the cave and put on a mesmerising light display likened to the twinkling night sky. This Waitomo Caves tour provides an immersive experience into the heart of New Zealand's underground treasures, allowing you to witness the magic of the glowworms and the breathtaking geological formations that make these caves unique.

Activity location

• Auckland Central, New Zealand

Meeting/Redemption Point

• 8 Customs Street East
• 1010, Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
• Thu, May 2 -
• Fri, May 3 -
• Sat, May 4 $200
• Sun, May 5 $200
• Mon, May 6 $200
• Tue, May 7 $200
• Wed, May 8 -
• Thu, May 9 $200
• Fri, May 10 $200
• Sat, May 11 $200
• Sun, May 12 $200
• Mon, May 13 $200
• Tue, May 14 $200
• Wed, May 15 $200
• Thu, May 16 $200
• Activity duration is 8 hours 8h 8h

Pickup included

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Stare up at thousands of glowing glow-worms above you
• What's included What's included Complimentary refreshments and water on board
• What's included What's included Fully guided return transfers from Auckland
• What's included What's included Admission to fully guided 45 minutes experience Waitomo Glow Worm Cave
• What's included What's included Unrivalled boat ride through the spectacular Glowworm Grotto
• What's included What's included Marvel at awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites during the tour of the iconic Glow-worm Caves
• What's included What's included Luxurious temperature controlled transportation in a minibus
• What's included What's included Walk through the Cathedral Cave and experience the amazing acoustics
• What's included What's included Air-conditioned vehicle
• What's included What's included Boat ride on an underground stream through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• What's included What's included Witness the history created over thousands of years
• What's included What's included Experience one of the best North Island destinations in one day on an all-encompassing tour
• What's included What's included WiFi on board
• What's included What's included Complimentary High-Speed Internet onboard the minibus
• What's included What's included See more glow-worms than you could ever imagine all lighting up above your head
• What's included What's included Be captivated by the thousands of magical glow-worms as you glide silently by boat
• What's included What's included A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour
• What's included What's included Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland CBD
• What's included What's included Immerse yourself in geology and history of the Waitomo caves with the help of a tour guide
• What's included What's included All Fees and Taxes
• What's excluded What's excluded Breakfast
• What's excluded What's excluded Lunch
• What's excluded What's excluded Dinner

Know before you book

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
• Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, & any essential personal items.
• Easy and good fitness level required.
• This is a guided walking tour and sensible walking footwear is recommended.
• No photography is permitted inside the Waitomo caves, and cameras and Go Pros cannot be taken on the tour.
• No backpacks or large bags allowed in cave due to delicate formations.
• Please do not touch the formation in the cave as it discoloured easily, please help us protect our cave.
• You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
• Tours are suitable for people of all ages and average fitness.

Activity itinerary

Auckland central, bombay hills (pass by), robert harris, te awamutu (pass by), waitomo glowworm caves.

• Admission ticket included

Best Deals on Things to Do

Top experiences in auckland central.

Waitomo Caves Tours

The enchanting Waitomo Caves have been attracting visitors for more than 120 years, thanks to their incredible limestone formations and luminescent glowworms. The subterranean cave system is located beneath the rolling green countryside of the Waikato, one of New Zealand’s prime farming regions. Your guided Waitomo Caves tour will be an unforgettable sightseeing experience as you walk through majestic caverns, explore limestone shafts, marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites and enjoy a boat ride through a grotto lit by thousands of tiny native glowworms.

Visitors to Waitomo Caves can also enjoy blackwater rafting and canyoning activities. From Waitomo you can travel east, onwards to Rotorua where a geothermal wonderland rich in Māori culture and heritage awaits, or take a Hobbiton Movie Set tour .

Fun fact: Do you know how to remember the difference between stalactites and stalagmites? Stalactites hold “tight” to the ceiling, while stalagmites “might” grow up to reach the ceiling one day!

2 Day Tours to experience

Waitomo & Hobbiton Experience from Auckland

• Full Day Tour
• Waitomo Glowworm Caves guided tour
• Hobbiton Movie Set guided tour

from $ 334 NZD

Waitomo and Hobbiton Experience (Auckland to Rotorua)

• 10 hours 15 minutes
• Waitomo Caves guided tour
• Tasty picnic lunch included

Free cancellation

You'll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 2 hours in advance of your tour experience.

New Zealand Tours

• City Sightseeing
• Nature & Wildlife
• Lord of the Rings
• Dolphin Watching
• Food & Wine
• Glowworm Cave
• Flightseeing
• Tours from Auckland
• Tours from Christchurch
• Tours from Rotorua

Destinations

• Bay of Islands Tours
• Auckland Tours
• Rotorua Tours
• Waitomo Tours
• Hobbiton Tours
• Wellington Tours
• Christchurch Tours
• Mt Cook Tours
• Queenstown Tours
• West Coast Tours
• Milford Sound Tours

Travel Info

• Our Drivers
• Our Coaches
• Hotel Transfers
• Tour Commentary
• Accommodation

Finance – Travel – Food

A Purple Life

Review: Glowworm Waitomo & Ruakuri Cave Tour From Auckland, New Zealand

So I had heard that a must see when visiting New Zealand were the glowworms at Waitomo. It’s about a two and a half hour drive from Auckland and way back in 2018 when my Mom and I were originally planning this trip Down Under, we were going to rent a car and drive around New Zealand ourselves…on the left side of the road.

Well that was 6 years ago and since then, I’ve become a little less adventurous in the driving side of things and also bougier in general. So when we were re-planning this trip for 2023, we started talking about alternate ways we could see these worms!

• From Frugal To Fuck It: The Evolution Of My Thoughts On Spending Money

In a surprise to no one who has been reading about my Down Under adventures, my Mom and I decided to book a tour from Viator , which is our go-to tour portal for their fantastic 24 hour free cancellation policy.

We paid $318.15 USD per person for the Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Experience with the company Experience Kart . The tour is 10 hours long and includes pick up from your accommodations, transportation in a van with wifi, snacks, and an amazing guide and obviously entrance to the caves.

If you want to just enter the caves, they cost $75 NZD/44.25 USD for Waitomo (where photography is not allowed) and $107 NZD/63.14 USD for Ruakuri (where photography is allowed). Obviously these fees were already included in our tour price.

So for an extra $210.76 USD, I received all the amenities above and didn’t have to rent a car or risk everyone’s life driving on the other side of the road. Wins all around!

The day of our tour arrived and we woke up bright and early to meet our tour guide. And he rolled up right on time at 6:15am. His name was Karthik and he was an absolutely phenomenal tour guide from the very start. Once we were situated in our van for the day, we were told that the van has Wifi and we were given cute gift bags with yummy local snacks, tissues, soda and a bottle of water. Above and beyond 🙂 .

My Mom and I also got lucky because there was only one other person on our tour that day. The van only has maybe 10 seats for passengers, so any tour group would be relatively small, but this was almost private. Love it 🙂 .

And then we were quickly off on our adventure. Karthik had on a headset, which was great even for the small van because we could clearly hear everything he said while facing forward to watch the road (which I appreciate 🙂 ). He then asked us about our interests and told us fun facts about New Zealand based on our interests – cool! Another way this felt like a personal tour.

It was a 2.5 hour drive to the caves and we watched the heavy morning traffic head towards the city as we drove out of it. As we looked at the gorgeous scenery, (including adorable baby lambs, lush green hills and even a full rainbow) Karthik gave us recommendations and told us fun facts through his headset, such as:

• Glowworms aren’t actually worms, but cannibal maggots that mostly eat each other in these caves. Adult glowworms only live for 3 days in which they starve to death because once they reach “maturity,” they no longer have a mouth or digestive track…the horror behind these beautiful sights. Also, those strings hanging down are used to catch prey and are made mostly of urine…yum?
• There are 300 caves in the Waitomo region and Waitomo is a small one. Maori own 80% of the caves.
• According to our guide, New Zealand experiences about 20,000 earthquakes a year , but most are too small to be felt. These earthquakes and the many hills of NZ are apparently because of all the volcanic activity (it’s part of the Ring Of Fire) and because NZ lies across a tectonic plate
• Lake Taupo , a lake near these caves, is the size of Singapore and is in the location of the largest volcano in NZ and it’s due for an eruption
• There is nothing deadly in New Zealand and apparently they have no predators , which is an interesting contrast to their close neighbor Australia where everything seems to be trying to kill you 🙂
• The native Kiwi bird sleeps 18 hours a day…now that’s what I’m talking about 😉
• Piha Beach , which is close to Auckland, is an iron rich black sand beach (and because of this comment we actually visited!)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by A Purple Life l Early Retiree (@apurplelife)

I was going to go to sleep during this drive since we had to get up so early, but we were learning so many cool things I stayed awake the whole time 🙂 .

Coffee Break

At 7:45am we stopped at a coffee shop named Robert Harris for a 20 minute break. A few people went to the bathroom and I got a coffee, which was delicious. It was a great space with kind staff and a clean bathroom. Would recommend 🙂 .

Waitomo Cave

At 9:30am we arrived at Waitomo Cave! Karthik checked us in, told us where to meet him after the tour and then we walked up to the entrance. There was another group going in that wasn’t full and we were asked if we wanted to head in early.

We said yes and joined the other group, which only had 6 people in it. In total there were less than 10 of us and apparently the tour has a max of 23 people at once.

We then walked into the caves. It was dark, but had handrails. Immediately we were faced with massive Stalactites (which grow down from the ceiling) and Stalagmites (which grow from the floor). Our new tour guide then told us that it takes over 100 years for a stalactite or stalagmite to grow 1 centimeter. So some of these took 13 MILLION YEARS to grow this big. WOAH!!!

We were also understandably told not to touch anything because the oil on our hands stops stalactite and stalagmite growth. We then walked down some more stairs into an area called the Cathedral.

Our tour guide asked if anyone wanted to sing a song because the cave room has great acoustics. Since that’s my social anxiety nightmare, we declined and the guide started singing a beautiful Maori song while we listened in the dark. It was lovely.

Then we headed back in the direction we came and went down some stairs to a boat. No one else was in the cave besides one tour group, so it was eerie, but cool. We then loaded up the boat from back to front, and once we were all settled, the guide stood on the front of the boat and guided it through the water by grabbing onto a rope across the ceiling.

We floated along in the boat in the dark while looking at the glowworms that adorned the ceiling and walls. It was beautiful, but in mere seconds we were outside in the light once again and the tour was over. That was fast 🙂 .

Once we were near the light outside, we were allowed to take pictures. Then we arrived at the dock and got out of the boat.

We walked up a path and stairs back to the entrance area. They had bathrooms and a gift shop. After walking through that, we met Karthik next to our van, which we got to by going under a bridge after the gift shop and up the stairs to the left.

Then we piled into the van and drove the whole 3 minutes to the next cave 🙂 . The whole tour was about 45 minutes long and ended at 10:25 with a small percentage of that time being on the boat looking at glowworms.

As we left, I realized that if we had done our original plan of only visiting this cave, it wouldn’t really be worth it to drive 5 hours total for a 45 minute tour, only a few minutes of which showed the titular glowworms.

Ruakuri Cave

Then we arrived at Ruakuri Cave and this experience blew Waitomo out of the water. Shoutout to our amazing tour guide Elana!

There were only two other people on our tour, which happened from 11am to 12:30pm. Elana checked us in and then warned us that the bathroom near the check in desk was the last until the tour is over. We were also given the wifi password, which was “Rai cave.”

After everyone was ready, we were led by the tour guide across the street and into the cave.

There are 8 entrances to Ruakuri Cave, but most are in water or require repelling into it. The cave is made of 25-35 million year old limestone and since it was under the sea, you can see fossilized shells in the walls!

We then entered the cave and it was understandably dark. We went down beautiful and creepy 🙂 spiral stairs and headed deep into the earth to the cave entrance.

Ruakuri Cave is 4.5km long and our guided walk explored 1.5km of it. During our 90 minutes in the cave, we saw people quietly in the distance twice, but were mostly in the dark with these glowworms and it was STUNNING!!

We saw glowworms during most of the cave walk and way more of them than during our time in Waitomo. There were also even more impressive stalactites, stalagmites and cave structures. I wanted to do this tour to see glowworms, but by the end, I was even more impressed with the gorgeous caves.

Elana told us cool fun facts throughout the whole tour and answered any questions we had. She was very knowledgable and the entire experience felt a bit like meditation with us walking through the empty, cool and dark caverns that were built slowly over millions of years while the blue light of glowworms shined down on us.

After that lovely experience, we re-entered the sunlight and walked back to our van. We hit the road and a little before 1pm, we arrived at a restaurant in case people were hungry. I was only a little peckish so I ate some of the lovely snacks we were given.

After everyone was full and our tour companion had eaten at the restaurant, we got back onto the road at 1:20pm. During the drive, the early pick up time caught up with me and I fell asleep. I awakened at 3pm when we stopped for a bathroom break.

Then around 4:30pm we were dropped off back at our Airbnb ready to reminisce on this wild experience.

Travel Tips

In case you want to take a tour similar to this, I’d suggest wearing something you don’t mind getting wet because you will be dripped on from the caves. For similar reasons, I would recommend wearing shoes with a good grip since the floor can be slippery. The caves also understandably require you to duck down a few times to avoid stalags.

And that was my experience seeing glowworms in New Zealand! However, I would recommend going to at least Waitomo and Ruakuri caves instead of just Waitomo. Waitomo has more glowworms in a concentrated area, but seeing them is over quite quickly in a boat.

However, in Ruakuri, you get to see them up close and also explore over a kilometer of a gorgeous cave filled with giant stalactites. I came for the glowworms, but would return for the caves! They’re massive, gorgeous and have fascinating history.

What’s your favorite natural wonder?

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12 thoughts on “ Review: Glowworm Waitomo & Ruakuri Cave Tour From Auckland, New Zealand ”

Sounds incredible! What a great experience.

> they starve to death because once they reach “maturity,” they no longer have a mouth or digestive track […] Also, those strings hanging down are used to catch prey and are made mostly of urine

Tell you what, nature is freaking metal

Nature really is metal 🙂 . And yeah it was a fun time.

Oh, aren’t caves fun! Glad you got to see so many interesting and pretty (though somewhat disturbing) things. Never knew about glowworms before. Did they tell you the reason why they strive in this environment? Can they be found elsewhere in the world?

There is an impressive cave in the Trieste region as well… not sure if it’s worth a trip from Venice though. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grotta_Gigante

They are indeed 🙂 . Learning about the Earth seems to often be interesting, pretty and disturbing lol. I believe glowworms are only found in that part of the world and I don’t know why they thrive there. If you find out feel free to let me know! And nice – that cave looks cool!

The cave glowworms sound both cool and kind of gross! I think I saw that in an episode of Planet Earth.

Last year, I saw Skyline Caverns in Virginia as a side trip on my way to Shenandoah. They flood the caverns with multicolored LEDs and turn out the other lights, which looked spectacular. Definitely not for the claustrophobic, but otherwise well worth the trip.

Haha yep! And that sounds really cool 🙂 .

Awesome post, thanks for sharing as per usual. Lol, reminded me of that horror movie where people are trapped under a cave.

Thanks for reading! And I’ve seen a few of those films and the ones I’m terrified of are where they’re exploring new caves, especially underwater ones. These luckily have lots of easy ways to escape while breathing air.

Kiwis are my soul animals! Glowworms… not so much.

Reminds me of Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico, U.S.A. I love a good cave!

I took my parents to Waitomo in 2010. My dad wasn’t impressed. He said it’s just fake LED lights. Hahaha. We drove around the north island in a converted camper van. It was a ton of fun. I’d love to visit NZ again. It’s one of my favorite countries. The people are so laid back. We missed Ruakuri, though. I didn’t even know about that cave.

Wow you really did get a really personal experience! And learned some cool facts! I don’t really remember anything from the cave tour haha except singing in some chamber underground… Were you a fan of the L&P (the drink)?

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WAITOMO CAVES & ROTORUA INCLUDING TE PUIA TOUR from Auckland

Waitomo caves & rotorua small group tour including te puia from auckland.

Waitomo Caves & Rotorua Tour, this small group, fully guided day trip combines Nature, Maori culture and two of the top attractions in the North Island together to form the ultimate day trip from Auckland. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

Please be aware that while lunch is not provided on this tour, there will be several opportunities for you to purchase food along the way.

Highlights:

·        Waitomo Glowworm Caves

·        Te Puia Geothermal Park & Pohutu

·        Maori Cultural Village and Arts School

·        Rotorua City Highlights

1.       Auckland - Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out of the city, your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today, but also point out and guide you past some of the city’s top highlights.

2.       Waikato – Exiting Auckland we drive south through the stunning Waikato countryside, the most extensive farming area in the world. Encounter stunning scenery, mighty rivers, great photo opportunities, beautiful mountains and several farm animals along the way. During this journey we pass through Taupiri which has many interesting sites of cultural significance including local Maori burial grounds & cultural totem poles.

3.        Pirongia - After passing through rich countryside and learning about some local history and the New Zealand Land Wars we stop in this idyllic little town for a quick coffee break.

4.        Otorohanga - Continuing our adventure we enter Otorohanga “The Kiwiana capital of New Zealand”. See all things Kiwi as you pass through this unique and charming town.

5.        Waitomo Caves – Arriving at our first feature attraction you will be guided through the ancient and amazing caves seeing many different cave formations including Stalactites, Stalagmites and Lime Columns before descending even further underground for your Glowworm experience. Board your glow-worm boat for a cruise on the grotto river with thousands of Glowworms sparkling above you. Unique to New Zealand for over 120 years, Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must-see for any traveller.

6.        Big Bird – On our way to our next destination, Rotorua, we stop outside Big Bird to see and meet some of our local friendly animals. These guys know our guides well and even though we do not have time to go inside the park, the friendly animals will often come to the fences for a photo or two, thrilling guests.

7.        Te Puia Geothermal Park – Arriving at our second feature destination, Te Puia, you will receive a fully guided tour to best experience the geothermal and cultural wonders including: Pōhutu Geyser, Māori Architecture, The National Māori Arts School, geothermal craters, geothermal events and even the chance to view a Kiwi bird in the Kiwi viewing house. 

8.       Rotorua City Highlights – To finish off our Rotorua experience we do a guided driving tour seeing the most famous sites in Rotorua city including: Lake Rotorua, Rotorua Museum, Government Gardens, Whangapipiro (Rachel Spring) & the Blue Baths. If there is time, we may even visit a special souvenir shop for some discounted shopping and to try Manuka Honey.

9.       Auckland – Sadly we must start to head north again but your day is not over with a fully guided return trip to Auckland.

Inclusions:

·        Small Group Tour

·        Fully Guided

·        Entry Tickets

·        Bottled Water

·        Snacks

Optional Extras:

·        One-way option from Auckland to Rotorua 

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it’s our small groups, guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

For further information on luggage, pickup locations, cancellation policy etc please  read our FAQ's  at the bottom of our home page. 

Ruakuri Cave

Discover the wonder of Ruakuri Cave

See glowworms right up close in this magical cave. journey down through the spectacular spiral entrance, marvel at the limestone formations and crystal tapestries in this uniquely sustainable experience (this is a solar powered cave)..

Ruakuri Cave is an experience that must be seen to be believed. Offering a captivating blend of the most compelling subterranean experiences (including glowworms), it will leave you open-mouthed, awe-struck and humbled by the sheer majesty of nature. Begin the tour by journeying down through the spectacular, man-made spiral entrance, marvel at the softly folding shawl-like limestone formations and crystal tapestries while listening to the distant thunder of subterranean waterfalls. If you want to see glowworms up-close and personal and learn about their fascinating life, then this is the tour for you. Photography is permitted in Ruakuri Cave, and we also offer photography tours .

Major features of the Ruakuri Cave tour include; Holdens Cavern, named after James Holden who first opened the cave to the public, The Drum Passage, The Pretties, and The Ghost Passage.

With clever and innovative design, Ruakuri Cave has full wheelchair and pushchair access and both the cave and its visitor centre is proudly powered by 100% renewable energy.

Compare all experiences  to find the right tour for you.

Please note - you will need your own transport to get to the Ruakuri Cave. Please note - wheelchair/stroller width must not exceed 65cm.

Backpacks are not premitted 

Wheelchair Access

Photography

NZD$107 Adult

NZD$41 Child

NZD$260 Family (2A+2C)

NZD$39 Extra Child (Family Pass)

Check out our combo deals to enjoy Ruakuri Cave alongside our other caves for a great price.

Top Cave Combo  - Ruakuri Cave + Aranui Cave

Most Popular Combo  - Ruakuri Cave + Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Essential Information

• Ruakuri Visitor Centre, Tumutumu Road, Waitomo
• 0800 456 922
• Open daily - Pre-Booking is essential
• Tours depart from 10am with the last tour at 3.30pm. Additional tours maybe available over summer period.
• [email protected]

Departure Information

Current departure times: Open daily 10am - 3.30pm Pre-bookings are essential - please book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Tours depart from 10am (last tour at 3.30pm) from the Ruakuri Visitor Centre on Tumutumu Road .

You must have your own transport for this tour (the Ruakuri Visitors Centre is located a short drive from the Waitomo Glowworm Cave Visitors Centre). Wheelchair/stroller width must not exceed 65cm.

Backpacks aren't permitted inside the cave

Allow 1.5 hours.

It is essential to check-in 30 minutes prior to tour departure - you will need to continue on from the Waitomo Glowworm Cave.

Failure to check in on time will result in missing your tour's departure and forfeiting your tickets.

Preparation

• Wear comfortable shoes
• Wear a warm jacket
• Bring your camera

Ruakuri Cave is accessible to everyone and is fully wheelchair and pushchair accessible (wheelchair/pushchair width must not exceed 65cm). If you require a wheelchair, please contact us prior to your tour.

Photography and video are permitted in selected areas of the cave.

You must check   in 30 minutes prior to your tour departure .

  Please note:  The Ruakuri Cave Visitor Centre is a cashless site. We strongly advise booking your tour online, and make sure you bring a contactless method of payment (credit card, apple pay etc) for on site.

 Please note: large backpacks aren't premitted inside the cave

Yes, pre-booking is essential to avoid missing out, especially over the summer months. Plus it's easy, just select your preferred date and time, and pre-pay for your tickets online.

Check-in for Ruakuri Cave tours is at the Ruakuri Visitor Centre, located on Tumutumu Road, follow the signs. The Ruakuri Visitor Centre is a short drive from the main Glow Worm Caves. Toilets are available at the visitor centre.

You must check in at the Ruakuri Visitor Centre at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour departure. If you're late or miss your departure time, your ticket will be non-refundable and fortified.

All you will need are comfortable walking shoes and a warm jacket.

Yes, there are, you can even grab a selfie with them!

Yes, Ruakuri if full accessible allowing for both wheelchairs and push chairs to enjoy the tour. However, due to our narrow passageways, the wheelchair or stroller must not exceed 65cm.

Under 4-year-olds go free but must be booked to secure a place on tour.

No, children over the age of 14 will need to be booked as an adult. Proof of age may be required.

Two adults and two children.

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Admire thousands of glowworms in the glowwrom-studded Waitomo Glowworm Caves as you drift silently through by boat

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Visit the Te Pohutu Geyser at Te Puia in Rotorua

Guests can choose to partake in cultural games in Rotorua

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Waitomo Caves & Rotorua Experience - Auckland Day Trip

102 Hobson St , Auckland Central , New Zealand .

Departing daily from Auckland, this action-packed full day tour visits a number of leading attractions including Waitomo Caves, a Maori cultural performance at Te Puia and the world famous Agrodome Farm Show. Tour returns to Auckland

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This action-packed full day tour visits a number of leading attractions in the Waitomo and Rotorua regions. Depart Auckland in the morning to Waitomo where you will enjoy a guided tour through the galleries of the world famous Glowworm Caves. Tour includes a boat ride through the glowworm grotto. Continue on to Rotorua in the afternoon (picnic lunch served en route) and see New Zealand's agricultural industry in action with sheep dog trials at the Agrodome, plus an organic farm tour. Continue to Te Puia where you will enjoy a Maori cultural performance followed by a guided tour to see the mighty geysers and boiling mudpools for which this thermal area is famous. Return to Auckland in the evening to complete this action packed day.

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Glow Worm Caves New Zealand North Island

Beneath the rolling green hills of Waitomo in the North Island region of south Waikato there are around 300 limestone caves, but the star attractions are the caves where you can view a galaxy of glowworms twinkling, and take the opportunity to try black water rafting. Waitomo’s impressive underground cave system was formed over 30 million years ago when the land was under the sea. In Māori, wai means water and tomo means cave or hole. Although Haka Tours do not provide a Waitomo caves tour from Auckland, we do have Waitomo activities available for those on Haka Plus tours on the North Island.

GET UNDERGROUND

The glow worms caves of New Zealand’s North Island are a highly popular attraction. There are two ways to see the caves and glowworms, one is easy access and dry, the other is a bit more intrepid and you’ll get wet! Either way, you’ll be able to admire amazing stalagmites and stalactites and underground rivers and rock formations, but you’ll also see a galaxy of tiny living lights on the cave’s ceiling. Opt to take New Zealand's longest guided subterranean walking tour and learn about the natural and Māori history of the caves. On another option you can sit back and enjoy a gentle boat ride through some of the cave. For the most adventurous option you get to don a wetsuit, abseil 37m down a dark cave and explore an underground river system through a combination of walking and floating on inner tyre tubes through glowworm lit caves.

WAITOMO’S GLOWWORMS

New Zealand glowworms (or Arachnocampa luminosa for the geeks) are not actually worms but the larvae from a small type of fly called a fungus gnat (similar in appearance to a mosquito). Glowworms use their glowing lights to attract smaller flying insects into a snare of sticky threads. The Māori word for glowworms is Titiwai, or light reflected on water.

Weird fact: the green-blue light you see is shining from the glowworm’s kidney! Ewwww! But it’s still a spectacular natural wonder that you won’t see anywhere else.

Did you know that limestone is a type of rock mainly formed from the skeletons of sea creatures? So remember when you’re in the Waitomo caves that you’re looking up at the light of thousands of maggots’ kidneys within a cave made from starfish, crabs, mollusks and seahorses who died over 30 million years ago when this land was under the sea! Nature sure is buzzy!

Photo Credits: Waikato NZ

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An unrushed exploration of the North Island’s top attractions including the Coromandel, Tongariro National Park, Rotorua & Wellington.

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Learn About the Amazing Waitomo Glowworm Caves in New Zealand

W hen you hear a name like Waitomo Glowworm Caves, how can you not be interested? It sounds too good to be true, but it’s real. The Waitomo caves, at least most of them, are filled with beautiful lights as a result of hundreds of glowworms living in the dark.

If you want to learn more about these caves, how to visit them, and what to expect when you go, keep reading below.

Where Are the Waitomo Glowworm Caves?

The Waitomo Caves are located in Waitomo. This is on the North Island of New Zealand . The name comes from the Maori people, with wai meaning water and tomo meaning hole or shaft.

Depending on how you plan to travel, it’s not terribly far from Auckland, New Zealand. It’s about three-and-a-half hours by bus, or two-and-a-half hours by car.

What Are the Waitomo Caves?

A total of three caves make up this attraction. These are the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Ruakuri Cave, and Aranui Cave. Each cave is a little different.

The Aranui cave is dry and doesn’t have any glowworms. However, the sparkling stones and multi-colored stalactites and stalagmites are sure to leave behind an impression.

Then there is the Ruakuri Cave. This is the largest cave in the area, big enough to easily be wheelchair accessible. There’s a mix of limestone formations and stunning crystals. Part of the cave has water in it, allowing you a close look at the glowworms.

Finally, there is the most popular cave. This is the Glowworm Caves. You’ll get to walk around some of the larger caves. Then, you’ll get to take a boat through an area filled with glowworms. You and the rest of the people on the tour get to watch the glowworms and their lights reflecting off of the cave walls in silence.

Check out a couple of different tour options. Some places offer a visit to multiple caves or even other places nearby for one decent price. There are a few other attractions around the area, so it’s best to take advantage and see as many of them as you can while you’re in the area.

Life in the Waitomo Caves

Despite being a popular cave, you can find quite a bit of wildlife in the caves. Most of them are insects, such as giant crickets and albino cave ants. The giant crickets are known as Weta , and they are actually quite large, though thankfully flightless. They’re about the size of a pocket lighter and are some of the heaviest insects in the world.

There is also a wide range of fungi that make its home on the walls of the cave. One such example is a fungus known as cave flower, distantly related to Pleurotus .

However, the most popular species in the cave is the glowworm that the cave is named after. The glowworm is Arachnocampa luminosa , which roughly means “glowing spider-worm.”

Their common name is simply glowworm, but they are sometimes referred to as New Zealand Gloworm because they are endemic to the country. In the Māori language, they are known as Titiwai , which refers to the glowing light they project into the water.

These glowworms seen in the cave make up the larval and imago stages. In both of these stages, the glowworm emits blue-green bioluminescence . They turn into a type of gnat when fully grown.

In addition to being found in the Waitomo Caves, they are found in some botanical gardens in the area, such as Wellington Botanical Gardens.

Because of the heavy foot traffic due to visitors, there aren’t many other animals in the cave.

Other Things to Do in the Area

If you want a little adrenaline after that serene sight, there’s the perfect place nearby. Go black water rafting is the ultimate adventure. You get to go tubing in the dark caves, jump off of waterfalls, and see glowworms. Still not enough? There are also options for ziplining through the dark caves, going caving, and climbing up waterfalls.

If you want to see more animals, the Kiwi House in Otorohanga is only about a 15-minute drive from Waitomo. It houses all sorts of native birds including the grey teal, tui, kea, North Island kaka, little spotted kiwi , and New Zealand falcon.

There’s also the Timber Trail , which is roughly a 20-minute drive from Waitomo. The area offers 54 miles of trails that wander through an ancient forest. Depending on what trail you take, you may even find a few bridges to cross. With so many miles of trails, you could easily spend a week just in the park. There are also plenty of bike trails in the park if you’re looking for more than a walk.

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