Waitomo, North Island Tours & Activities in 2025

Waitomo , North Island

From $ 47.43

Be amazed by the thousands of magical glowworms above on this 45-minute, small group guided tour, as you glide silently by boat in the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Many of the current guides are descendants of the Maori chief who originally explored the cave and can share with you the remarkable history of the area. Guided since the late 1880s, this is the original, iconic New Zealand attraction.

Waitomo , North Island

From $ 131.47

Not that cave — the other one! A hidden gem off the tourist trail and the #1 rated glowworm cave tour in the Waitomo District. If you're after crowds, handrails and concrete paths… this probably isn’t for you. We’re the other glowworm tour — small groups, big adventure, and none of the tourist trap stuff. What makes us glow? • Glowworms galore! • Snap away! Phones welcome and we’re proudly selfie-approved • Just the right amount of adventure • No railings, no footpaths – just pure underground magic • Hosted by our awesome local guides • Family-owned, eco-proud – we’ve planted over 8,000 trees • Complimentary photos, tea, coffee & bikkies • TripAdvisor’s #1 Rated Tour in Waitomo This is caving the way it used to be — real, rugged, and unforgettable. Come and see why so many travellers say: “This was the highlight of our whole New Zealand trip.”

Waitomo , North Island

From $ 112.86

We offer two different Blackwater Rafting experiences through the Ruakuri Cave. The Black Labyrinth is the original, 3-hour Blackwater Rafting tour. You will jump off two small waterfalls (highest is 1.5 meters), float on a tube underneath an impressive display of glowworms and navigate through the cave’s natural streamway. All participants must be at least 12 years old and weigh at least 45kgs. The Black Abyss is the ultimate 5-hour Blackwater Rafting tour. Abseil 35 metres into the cave and zipline across a river under a grotto of glowworms. You'll then float on a tube through the caves' natural streamway. All participants must be at least 16 years old and weigh 45kgs. An average level of fitness and mobility is required for both of our tours. It is important to understand that these tours take you into a completely natural cave environment. Please understand that your guides have final discretion of whether you will be able to participate on our tours.

Waitomo , North Island

From $ 67.84

Ruakuri Cave offers a captivating blend of Waitomo's most compelling subterranean experiences. Journey down through the spectacular spiral entrance, and marvel at the softly folding shawl-like limestone formations and crystal tapestries. Hear the distant thunder of the subterranean waterfalls and get up close to the glowworms. Spectacular and unique, Ruakuri Cave offers a captivating blend of Waitomo's most compelling subterranean experiences. In this 2 hours sightseeing tour, your guide will bring you up close to glowworms, elaborate cave formations, underground rivers, myths, legends and sacred Maori sites.

Waitomo , North Island

From $ 177.09

Discover New Zealand’s wonders with our Spellbound Glowworm Cave and Explorer Tour. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour offers a blend of bioluminescence and natural beauty that will captivate you. Begin your adventure with our expert guide leading you through mesmerizing caves. Learn about fascinating geological formations and history as you marvel at stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Step into the enchanting Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of glowworms illuminate the cave with their magical light. Enjoy a serene 20-minute boat ride, gazing up at lights resembling a starry night sky. Gain insights into the glowworms' life cycle and ecological significance from your knowledgeable guide. This unique tour is ideal for those wanting an up-close experience with the glowworms and photography enthusiasts, as there are no restrictions on photos in the caves. Experience all this as part of a small, intimate group of only 11 guests.

Waitomo , North Island

From $ 47.43

Discover serenity in the most delicate and intimate of the main caves in Waitomo. Begin your tour with a guided walk through an enchanted forest before discovering the most beautiful collection of decorative formations. Cave has a natural cave entrance and is the smallest and most delicate of Waitomo's three main caves. As a dry cave without a running river through it, it houses very little life past its entrance. Walk through the cave with your guide on this 1-hour tour, with an additional 15-minute guided bush walk. Visit soon to see the richly varied cave formations within close-up view and enjoy an experience you will never forget. Choose from one of seven departure times when you book.

Waitomo , North Island

From $ 199.61

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with our Ruakuri Cave and Otorohanga Kiwi House Tour. Delve into the mesmerizing depths of the Ruakuri Caves, adorned with stunning limestone formations and a dramatic spiral entrance. Immerse yourself in a personalized encounter at the Otorohanga Kiwi House, where you'll get up close with native kiwis and explore New Zealand's largest free-flight dome aviary. Enjoy premium transportation, expert guidance, and the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off. This small-group, fully guided tour promises an unforgettable day, seamlessly blending natural wonders with unique experiences. Book now for an enriching journey through the heart of New Zealand's captivating landscapes.

Waitomo , North Island

From $ 53.43

Our base in Waitomo Village, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Waitomo Caves, serves as a gateway to extraordinary adventures. Begin your journey by indulging in a moment of relaxation, savoring a cup of coffee and refreshing cold drinks while we guide you through the bike hiring experience. Indulge your senses as you traverse lush farmlands, tracing the meandering path of babbling creeks and ambling rivers. Lose yourself in pristine forests, alive with the symphony of chirping birds and the whispers of nature. Marvel at glimpses of the Central North Island Mountains and behold valley vistas that will leave you full of wonder. With every pedal stroke, immerse yourself in the magic that we offer. Let the raw beauty of the land envelop you, igniting your spirit of exploration and leaving an indelible mark on your soul. It’s time to embrace the extraordinary, discover the unheard-of, and become a part of the exceptional experience that we offer.

Waitomo , North Island

From $ 137.47

A journey through the enchanting Ōkahua Glowworm Cave offers a unique blend of exploration and relaxation. Begin at Tumu Tumu Station, where expert guides prepare you for a memorable experience. Traverse the limestone farmland to discover hidden entrances, then float along an underground river illuminated by thousands of glowworms. Marvel at stunning formations as you navigate through tranquil pools and even enjoy a natural rock slide. After your underground adventure, unwind in a cedar hot tub, surrounded by nature’s beauty. With a small group limit of six, this eco-friendly tour ensures a personal touch and an unforgettable experience beneath the surface.