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Experience the best of Waitomo Caves

Journey through New Zealand's Waitomo Caves. See enchanting glowworms on a guided tour. Book now for subterranean magic.
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Slide 1 of 8, Family exploring stalactites in Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand.
Family exploring stalactites in Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand.
Visitors exploring Waitomo Glowworm Caves with a guide holding a flashlight.
Glowworms hanging in Waitomo Caves during a guided tour.
Visitors admiring glowworms in Waitomo Glowworm Caves during guided tour.
Visitors admire glowworms and stalactites in Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand.
Glowworms illuminating the Waitomo Caves ceiling during a small group tour.
Walkway through illuminated Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand.
Wooden walkway surrounded by lush greenery on the Guided Tour of Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
45 mins - 7 hrs
  • Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a 45-minute guided tour featuring a serene boat ride beneath thousands of glowing worms.

  • Walk through stunning limestone formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and the towering Cathedral chamber.

  • Hear captivating stories and legends from expert guides descended from the Māori chief who first explored the caves.

  • Upgrade to the 1.5-hour Ruakuri accessible cave tour or the full-day Waitomo tour from Auckland with transfers for a longer, richer experience.

More details
  • Explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a 45-minute guided tour featuring a serene boat ride beneath thousands of glowing worms.

  • Walk through stunning limestone formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and the towering Cathedral chamber.

  • Hear captivating stories and legends from expert guides descended from the Māori chief who first explored the caves.

  • Upgrade to the 1.5-hour Ruakuri accessible cave tour or the full-day Waitomo tour from Auckland with transfers for a longer, richer experience.

from
NZ$81
Slide 1 of 7, Glowworms illuminating Waitomo Caves with a silhouetted person on a guided tour.
Glowworms illuminating Waitomo Caves with a silhouetted person on a guided tour.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves entrance with sunlight filtering through, surrounded by lush greenery.
Glowworms illuminating the Waitomo Caves ceiling during a small group guided tour.
Visitors exploring Waitomo Glowworm Caves with glowing ceiling, New Zealand tour.
Small group exploring Waitomo Glowworm Caves with helmets and headlamps.
Glowworms illuminating the Waitomo Caves ceiling during a small group tour.
Visitors exploring Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a guided tour, New Zealand.
3 hrs
  • Small-group adventure with private access to family-owned cave, away from crowds, led by local guide.

  • Equipped with helmet, headlamp, gumboots, and clothing; explore limestone passages and glowworm chambers.

  • Walk through shallow streams, climb rocks/boulders, see stalactites/stalagmites and glowworm displays.

  • Finish with complimentary photos, tea/coffee/biscuits; supports native forest restoration and predator control.

More details
  • Small-group adventure with private access to family-owned cave, away from crowds, led by local guide.

  • Equipped with helmet, headlamp, gumboots, and clothing; explore limestone passages and glowworm chambers.

  • Walk through shallow streams, climb rocks/boulders, see stalactites/stalagmites and glowworm displays.

  • Finish with complimentary photos, tea/coffee/biscuits; supports native forest restoration and predator control.

from Original priceNZ$219
NZ$186.15

15% off

Slide 1 of 9, Visitors exploring Waitomo Glowworm Caves, observing glowworms illuminating the cave walls.
Visitors exploring Waitomo Glowworm Caves, observing glowworms illuminating the cave walls.
Person walking through illuminated Ruakuri Cave tunnel, New Zealand.
Visitors exploring stalactites in Ruakuri Cave during a guided tour.
Glowworms hanging in Waitomo Caves during a guided tour.
Glowworms illuminating the Waitomo Caves ceiling during a small group tour.
Person walking on a lit pathway inside Ruakuri Cave, New Zealand.
Walkway through illuminated Ruakuri Cave, New Zealand, showcasing rock formations.
Visitors exploring Waitomo Glowworm Caves with a guide holding a flashlight.
Wooden walkway surrounded by lush greenery on the Guided Tour of Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
45 mins - 1 hr 30 mins
  • Explore the magical Ruakuri Cave and Waitomo Glowworm Caves with expert local guides and save 3% when you book both together.

  • Journey through Ruakuri Cave’s twisting passages, crystal-lined walls, and flowing streams on a 1.5-hour guided tour with just 14 people.

  • Glide silently on a boat beneath thousands of glowworms lighting up the cave ceiling, on a 45-minute tour led by a local Māori guide.

More details
  • Explore the magical Ruakuri Cave and Waitomo Glowworm Caves with expert local guides and save 3% when you book both together.

  • Journey through Ruakuri Cave’s twisting passages, crystal-lined walls, and flowing streams on a 1.5-hour guided tour with just 14 people.

  • Glide silently on a boat beneath thousands of glowworms lighting up the cave ceiling, on a 45-minute tour led by a local Māori guide.

from
NZ$197
Slide 1 of 11, Person walking through illuminated Ruakuri Cave tunnel, New Zealand.
Person walking through illuminated Ruakuri Cave tunnel, New Zealand.
Visitors exploring Ruakuri Cave on a guided tour, New Zealand.
Visitors exploring stalactites in Ruakuri Cave during a guided tour.
Visitors exploring stalactites in Ruakuri Cave, New Zealand.
Guided walkway through Ruakuri Cave with illuminated limestone formations.
Spiral walkway inside Ruakuri Cave, New Zealand, illuminated with warm lights.
Visitors exploring Ruakuri Cave's illuminated formations during a guided tour in Waitomo.
Ruakuri Cave illuminated passageway with textured rock walls, New Zealand.
Walkway through illuminated Ruakuri Cave, New Zealand, showcasing rock formations.
Visitors exploring stalactites in Ruakuri Cave, New Zealand.
Person walking on a lit pathway inside Ruakuri Cave, New Zealand.
1 hr 30 mins
  • Join a 1.5-hour tour of Ruakuri Cave, exploring impressive rock formations and the magical glow of thousands of glowworms.

  • Stroll through wheelchair-friendly routes featuring beautiful limestone formations, underground rivers, and iconic sites such as The Drum Passage and The Pretties.

  • Listen to engaging Māori legends and fascinating facts shared by guides descended from the original Māori explorers of the cave.

More details
  • Join a 1.5-hour tour of Ruakuri Cave, exploring impressive rock formations and the magical glow of thousands of glowworms.

  • Stroll through wheelchair-friendly routes featuring beautiful limestone formations, underground rivers, and iconic sites such as The Drum Passage and The Pretties.

  • Listen to engaging Māori legends and fascinating facts shared by guides descended from the original Māori explorers of the cave.

from
NZ$116
Slide 1 of 13, Guided black water rafting under glowworms in Waitomo Cave, New Zealand.
Guided black water rafting under glowworms in Waitomo Cave, New Zealand.
Group of people in wetsuits with inner tubes at Black Water Rafting, Waitomo.
Participants exploring cave during Black Water Rafting in Waitomo.
Adventurers in wetsuits and helmets explore a cave during a black water rafting tour in Waitomo.
Adventurers black water rafting in Waitomo cave with glowworms above.
Guided black water rafting under glowworms in Waitomo cave.
Group enjoying Black Water Rafting in Waitomo cave, wearing helmets and wetsuits.
Person exploring illuminated cave during black water rafting in Waitomo.
Adventurers rafting under glowworms in Waitomo Cave, New Zealand.
Participants enjoying black water rafting in Waitomo cave stream.
Adventurers in wetsuits and helmets navigate rocky stream in Waitomo cave.
Adventurers with tubes exploring a cave during a black water rafting tour in Waitomo.
Person ziplining through a cave during a Black Water Rafting experience in Waitomo.
3 hrs - 5 hrs
  • Join a 3-hour black water rafting adventure in Ruakuri Cave, combining underground tubing, small waterfall jumps, and magical glowworm displays.

  • Float beneath a glittering glowworm ceiling, weave through limestone passages, and take the plunge off low, safe waterfalls.

  • Learn about Maori myths, the glowworm’s unique life cycle, and caving techniques from your knowledgeable guide during the journey.

  • Pause mid-tour for complimentary snacks, then return to The Base for a hot shower after an unforgettable glowworm-lit rafting journey.

  • Opt for the 5-hour black water rafting tour for a bigger challenge, featuring added thrills like abseiling, ziplining, and scaling underground waterfalls.

More details
  • Join a 3-hour black water rafting adventure in Ruakuri Cave, combining underground tubing, small waterfall jumps, and magical glowworm displays.

  • Float beneath a glittering glowworm ceiling, weave through limestone passages, and take the plunge off low, safe waterfalls.

  • Learn about Maori myths, the glowworm’s unique life cycle, and caving techniques from your knowledgeable guide during the journey.

  • Pause mid-tour for complimentary snacks, then return to The Base for a hot shower after an unforgettable glowworm-lit rafting journey.

  • Opt for the 5-hour black water rafting tour for a bigger challenge, featuring added thrills like abseiling, ziplining, and scaling underground waterfalls.

from
NZ$322
Slide 1 of 14, Guide instructing participants on safety gear for ziplining in Waitomo.
Guide instructing participants on safety gear for ziplining in Waitomo.
Person abseiling in a dark cave during a guided black water rafting experience in Waitomo.
Caver descending in Waitomo cave during Black Abyss tour with zip lining and rafting.
Person ziplining in Waitomo Cave with glowworms illuminating the cave walls.
Person ziplining through a cave during a Black Water Rafting experience in Waitomo.
Person black water rafting under glowworms in Waitomo cave.
Group enjoying a break during Black Water Rafting in Waitomo cave.
Adventurers black water rafting under glowworms in Waitomo cave.
Adventurers black water rafting in a cave during a guided experience in Waitomo.
Person in wetsuit and helmet holding an inner tube in Waitomo cave for black water rafting experience.
Caver exploring narrow passage during black water rafting in Waitomo cave.
Adventurer exploring Waitomo cave during Black Water Rafting tour.
Adventurers in wetsuits prepare for black water rafting in Waitomo cave.
Group of people in wetsuits with inner tubes at Black Water Rafting, Waitomo.
5 hrs
  • Go on a 5-hour black water rafting adventure at Ruakarui Cave, complete with abseiling, ziplining, tubing, and glowworms.

  • Abseil 35m into the cave, zipline through glowworm tunnels, and tube along fast-flowing underground waters.

  • Your expert guide will provide instructions, safety tips, and fascinating insights on the cave’s formations and glowworms.

  • Take a short break to enjoy a snack, then finish your adventure with a warm shower and comforting soup after an unforgettable multi-activity experience.

More details
  • Go on a 5-hour black water rafting adventure at Ruakarui Cave, complete with abseiling, ziplining, tubing, and glowworms.

  • Abseil 35m into the cave, zipline through glowworm tunnels, and tube along fast-flowing underground waters.

  • Your expert guide will provide instructions, safety tips, and fascinating insights on the cave’s formations and glowworms.

  • Take a short break to enjoy a snack, then finish your adventure with a warm shower and comforting soup after an unforgettable multi-activity experience.

from
NZ$322
Slide 1 of 9, Family taking a selfie at Hobbiton Movie Set entrance, Auckland tour.
Family taking a selfie at Hobbiton Movie Set entrance, Auckland tour.
Hobbiton Movie Set house with round door and garden path in New Zealand.
Tour group arriving at Hobbiton Movie Set visitor center, Auckland.
Family exploring Waitomo Caves with a guide, part of the Auckland Hobbiton Movie Set tour.
Group enjoying boat tour under glowworms in Waitomo Caves, New Zealand.
Visitors enjoying drinks at the Hobbiton Movie Set's Green Dragon Inn, New Zealand.
Double arched stone bridge and mill at Hobbiton Movie Set, Matamata, New Zealand.
Glowworms illuminate Waitomo Caves' ceiling, casting a blue glow over the water on an Auckland tour.
Transfer vehicle for Auckland to Hobbiton Movie Set tour.
12 hrs
3 more
  • Experience the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a full-day tour from Auckland with an expert guide for company.

  • Explore Hobbit Holes, The Mill, and other film locations on a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, ending with a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

  • Take a guided walk through ancient caves and enjoy a serene boat ride under thousands of luminescent glowworms at the Waitomo Glowworm Cave.

  • Opt for a private tour to explore at your own pace, or join a shared tour with lunch for a relaxed, all-in-one day without worrying about meals.

More details
  • Experience the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a full-day tour from Auckland with an expert guide for company.

  • Explore Hobbit Holes, The Mill, and other film locations on a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, ending with a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

  • Take a guided walk through ancient caves and enjoy a serene boat ride under thousands of luminescent glowworms at the Waitomo Glowworm Cave.

  • Opt for a private tour to explore at your own pace, or join a shared tour with lunch for a relaxed, all-in-one day without worrying about meals.

from
NZ$379
Slide 1 of 13, Group enjoying boat tour under glowworms in Waitomo Caves, New Zealand.
Group enjoying boat tour under glowworms in Waitomo Caves, New Zealand.
Group exploring glowworm-lit Waitomo Caves on Auckland tour.
Geyser eruption at Te Puia cultural site, Rotorua, with geothermal activity, small group tour from Auckland.
Geothermal steam rising from Te Puia's Pohutu Geyser in Rotorua, New Zealand.
Maori performers in traditional attire during cultural show, Rotorua, New Zealand.
Maori cultural performance at Te Puia, New Zealand, with traditional meeting house in background.
Maori performers in traditional attire performing a haka at Te Puia, Rotorua.
Craftsmen weaving flax at Te Puia cultural center, Rotorua, New Zealand.
Craftsperson weaving traditional Māori garment at Te Puia, New Zealand.
Carving traditional Maori wood sculpture at Te Puia cultural site, Rotorua.
Chef demonstrating geothermal cooking at Te Puia, Rotorua, with tourists observing.
Stalactites in Waitomo Caves, New Zealand, part of the Auckland to Rotorua & Te Puia tour.
Kiwi bird in natural habitat, part of a small group tour from Auckland exploring New Zealand wildlife.
11 hrs
3 more
  • Join a full-day small-group day tour from Auckland to see Waitomo Glowworm Cave, Te Puia’s geothermal wonders, and Rotorua’s city highlights.

  • Explore Waitomo Glowworm Cave on a 45-minute guided tour with stalactites and stalagmites, then enjoy a serene boat ride beneath the glowworm-lit grotto.

  • Explore Te Puia Geothermal Park with a guide, seeing geysers, hot springs, Māori arts, and the unique Kiwi bird up close.

  • Drive through Rotorua’s most iconic sights, including Lake Rotorua, Rotorua Museum, Government Gardens, Rachel Spring, and the Blue Baths.

More details
  • Join a full-day small-group day tour from Auckland to see Waitomo Glowworm Cave, Te Puia’s geothermal wonders, and Rotorua’s city highlights.

  • Explore Waitomo Glowworm Cave on a 45-minute guided tour with stalactites and stalagmites, then enjoy a serene boat ride beneath the glowworm-lit grotto.

  • Explore Te Puia Geothermal Park with a guide, seeing geysers, hot springs, Māori arts, and the unique Kiwi bird up close.

  • Drive through Rotorua’s most iconic sights, including Lake Rotorua, Rotorua Museum, Government Gardens, Rachel Spring, and the Blue Baths.

from
NZ$409
Slide 1 of 9, Family exploring illuminated Aranui Cave on guided tour, New Zealand.
Family exploring illuminated Aranui Cave on guided tour, New Zealand.
Visitors exploring lush entrance of Aranui Cave, New Zealand.
Guided tour group exploring limestone formations inside Aranui Cave, Waitomo, New Zealand.
Family exploring stalactites in Aranui Cave, Waitomo during guided tour.
Family exploring Aranui Cave on guided tour, admiring rock formations.
Visitors exploring stalactites and stalagmites in Aranui Cave during a guided tour.
Glowworms illuminating the ceiling of Aranui Cave during a guided tour in New Zealand.
Glowworms illuminating the ceiling of Aranui Cave during a guided tour in New Zealand.
Guide explaining flora to tourists on Aranui Cave Guided Tour trail.
1 hr
  • Take a 1-hour guided tour of Aranui Cave, featuring fragile limestone formations and deep-rooted Māori stories.

  • Explore quiet, narrow passages filled with beautiful stalactites in shades of pink, brown, and white.

  • Listen to your knowledgeable guide share Māori myths and the story of Ruruku Aranui, the cave’s discoverer.

More details
  • Take a 1-hour guided tour of Aranui Cave, featuring fragile limestone formations and deep-rooted Māori stories.

  • Explore quiet, narrow passages filled with beautiful stalactites in shades of pink, brown, and white.

  • Listen to your knowledgeable guide share Māori myths and the story of Ruruku Aranui, the cave’s discoverer.

from
NZ$81

Pro tips to help you make a pick

Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear as cave floors can be damp and uneven.

Bring a light jacket; temperatures inside the caves are cool year-round.

Photography is restricted in some areas to protect the glowworms. Check guidelines before your visit.

If you’re prone to claustrophobia, let your guide know so they can offer support or alternative routes.

Check accessibility options in advance if you have mobility needs, as some tours involve stairs or narrow passages.

If you're based in Auckland, opt for a guided Waitomo day tour with convenient transfers. Enhance your experience by exploring Rotorua and Te Puia's geothermal valleys or discovering the enchanting Hobbiton sets.

Similar things to do in Waitomo

About Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Caves offer everything from glowworm-lit boat rides and cave walks to dramatic limestone formations and underground adventures. Ideal for families, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.


AddressWaitomo Caves, New Zealand
Year opened1889
Founded byTane Tinorau and Fred Mace
Visitors per year400000
Expected wait time - Standard30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Did you know?

The glowworms in Waitomo Glowworm Cave are unique to New Zealand and are scientifically known as Arachnocampa luminosa.

The caves were first explored by local Maori Chief Tane Tinorau and English surveyor Fred Mace in 1887.

Waitomo’s name comes from the Maori words 'wai' (water) and 'tomo' (hole or shaft), reflecting the caves’ watery passages.

Beyond the well-known caves, Waitomo area has hundreds of caves. Only around 10 of which are open for exploration, each with their own unique experience.

Glowworms glow not only for tourists but mainly to attract other insects. Their bioluminescence, created by their tails, lures insects to their sticky lines. They also use the glow to attract mates.

While there are paid tours, there are also opportunities to see glowworms for free. The Ruakuri Bushwalk at night allows visitors to spot glowworms along the trail using torches.

Why visit Waitomo Caves?

Glowworm grotto

Look at thousands of glowworms lighting up the cave ceilings, creating a magical, star-like display unique to New Zealand.

Limestone formations

Explore impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and sculpted chambers formed over millions of years, showcasing nature’s artistry.

Underground boat ride

Enjoy expert-led tours that reveal the caves’ fascinating geology, history, and the science behind the glowworms’ bioluminescence.

Adventure activities

Experience thrilling adventures like black water rafting and abseiling for a unique perspective of Ruakuri Caves’ hidden depths.

Rich Maori heritage

Learn about the cultural significance of the caves to the local Maori people, adding depth and meaning to your visit.

Plan your visit

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre Entrance

The main entrance to the Waitomo Caves is through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves Visitor Centre, located on Waitomo Village Road. The entrance is clearly signposted and features a modern, accessible building. Wheelchair access is available to the Visitor Centre and the first part of the cave tour, with ramps and accessible restrooms provided. Please note that some cave sections may have steps or uneven surfaces, so check accessibility details when booking.

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What our guests say

Megan C

New Zealand
Couple
May 2026
Every gazing moment was W🤩W, for me it was like a moonlit night, shining through the dense canopy of tree tops while floating around inside a cave 'with so much history' ❤️ out of respect for the iwi and the glow worms 🐛 no photo's 📱📸 while visiting the cave, however you can take pics exiting the cave, absolutely beautiful tour guide, he explained the history 👌🏽❤️ answered Q and explained the 'dos and don'ts' all said professionally and with love 'Ka pai u Sasha' Totally recommend 👌🏽 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour

Tyarna O

Australia
Couple
May 2026
The caves were beautiful, our guide T've was very informative and funny, and we had a great time! Lots of history and fun facts, a very cool experience.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour

Carol V

United States
Solo
Apr 2026

+2 more

5-hours of exciting adventures from rappelling, zip lining, floating in an inner tube down the underground stream and then walking on the rocks to the exit.

Ruakuri Cave Black Water Rafting & Abseiling Guided Experience

Tillmann B

Couple
Mar 2026
I did this tour 36 years ago, and it was once again an amazing experience to crawl through the underground world and enjoy the glow-worm sky.

Ruakuri Cave Black Water Rafting Guided Experience

Peter J

Australia
Solo
5 days ago
The guide, Steven, was very knowledgeable and hilariously funny. The tour is well worth the entry fee, the glowworm boat tour was incredible

Combo: Ruakuri Cave Guided Tour + Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour

Fahimeh F

New Zealand
Family
Jul 2026
Just seeing the glow worms and learning about them, and how they eat and their life cycle However, it was very short; I expected a longer boat ride for the cost I paid.

Combo: Ruakuri Cave Guided Tour + Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour

Wayne H

New Zealand
Group
May 2026
You really have to do cave tour that was highlight of our day. Absolutely gorgeous. How lucky are we to live in a beautiful country , tour guide was absolutely great.

Ruakuri Cave Guided Tour

Bridget W

New Zealand
Couple
Mar 2026
Had an amazing tour of the cave, got to see gloworms, cave formations and lots of educational stories. Well thought out path created that made it easy to explore. Highly recommend this tour.

Ruakuri Cave Guided Tour

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