Discover Nature's Underground Galaxy
Float silently beneath thousands of glowworms creating a starlit ceiling in ancient limestone caves
Hidden beneath the rolling hills of New Zealand's North Island lies one of nature's most magical spectacles. The Waitomo Caves are home to millions of tiny glowworms that transform underground grottos into breathtaking displays of bioluminescent beauty. As you drift silently through the darkness on an underground river, you'll gaze up at what appears to be a living constellation of stars, creating an experience that feels truly otherworldly.
Glowworm Grottos
Marvel at thousands of Arachnocampa luminosa glowworms creating a mesmerizing bioluminescent display. These tiny creatures produce a blue-green light to attract prey, illuminating cave ceilings like stars in the night sky.
Underground Boat Rides
Glide peacefully along subterranean rivers in complete silence. Your guide navigates using only the boat rope, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the glowworm-lit caves.
Limestone Formations
Explore stunning 30-million-year-old limestone caves featuring dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and intricate rock formations sculpted by water over millennia.
Cathedral Cave
Experience the incredible acoustics of this massive cavern, rising 18 meters high. The natural amphitheater has hosted world-renowned performers and features breathtaking rock formations.
Black Water Rafting
For the adventurous, tube through underground rivers, abseil into caves, and experience glowworms from a thrilling perspective. An unforgettable combination of adventure and natural wonder.
Ruakuri Cave
Walk through New Zealand's longest guided underground walking tour, featuring spectacular limestone formations, underground waterfalls, and stunning glowworm displays along spiral walkways.
What Makes Waitomo Special?
A truly unique natural phenomenon found only in New Zealand and Australia
Endemic Species
The glowworms are unique to New Zealand and Australia. These larvae of fungus gnats create their magical light through bioluminescence.
Living Light Show
Each glowworm creates a blue-green glow and up to 70 silk threads to catch prey, creating an intricate display of natural artistry.
Silent Journey
Guides request complete silence during boat rides, as noise and vibrations can disturb the glowworms and diminish their glow.
Ancient Caves
These caves have been forming for over 30 million years, creating a geological wonderland with countless chambers and passages.
Cave Experiences
Choose your perfect underground adventure
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🎫 Classic Glowworm Cave Tour
The iconic 45-minute tour includes walking through the stunning Cathedral Cave with its incredible acoustics, then boarding a boat for a silent journey through the glowworm grotto. Perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
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🚶 Ruakuri Cave Walk
A 2-hour guided walking tour through dramatic cave systems featuring underground waterfalls, massive rock formations, and extensive glowworm colonies. Wheelchair accessible with gentle spiral pathways.
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⚡ Black Water Rafting
For thrill-seekers, float through underground rivers on inner tubes, jump off waterfalls, and experience glowworms from an adventurous perspective. Wetsuit and helmet provided for this 3-5 hour expedition.
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🧗♀️ Lost World Adventure
Abseil 100 meters into a spectacular cave system, explore hidden chambers, and discover glowworms in pristine environments. Full-day adventure for the truly adventurous.
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🌅 Aranui Cave Tour
Smaller and more intimate, this cave features stunning white formations and delicate limestone decorations. Less crowded than the main glowworm cave, offering a peaceful underground experience.
Waitomo By Numbers
Plan Your Visit
Everything you need to know before you go
🕐 Best Time to Visit
Glowworms are visible year-round. Winter months have fewer tourists but require warmer clothing. Book early for summer holidays and weekends.
👕 What to Wear
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are essential. Caves maintain a constant 12°C, so bring a light jacket. No photography is allowed inside to protect the glowworms.
⏱️ Duration
Standard tours run 45 minutes to 2 hours. Adventure activities can take 3-7 hours. The village has cafes and shops for before or after your tour.
📍 Getting There
Waitomo is 2.5 hours south of Auckland and 2 hours north of Rotorua. Tours depart regularly throughout the day from the visitor center.
♿ Accessibility
Ruakuri Cave offers wheelchair access. The classic glowworm cave involves stairs and uneven ground. Contact tour operators for specific accessibility requirements.
🎒 What to Bring
Camera for above-ground areas, water bottle, and sense of wonder. Adventure tours provide all safety equipment. Lockers available for belongings.
Waitomo Caves are often combined with our Rotorua tours and New Zealand day trips for a complete North Island experience.
Why Travel with Cooee Tours?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rated by travellers for personalised service, expert planning, and unforgettable New Zealand experiences.
Waitomo Caves FAQs
Are the Waitomo Glowworm Caves suitable for children?
Yes. The classic glowworm cave tour is suitable for children of all ages and involves gentle walking and a short boat ride.
Can you take photos inside the caves?
Photography is not permitted inside the glowworm caves to protect the glowworms and preserve the natural environment.
How long does a Waitomo Cave tour take?
Most standard tours last around 45 minutes, while adventure tours range from 3 to 7 hours.
Do glowworms shine all year?
Yes. Glowworms are visible year-round, although brightness may vary depending on humidity and cave conditions.
Ready to Explore Waitomo Caves?
Join Cooee Tours for an unforgettable journey into one of nature's most magical underground wonderlands.
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