Things To Do In New Zealand: Waitomo Caves
What: Waitomo Caves
Where: Waitomo, North Island.
Located about 200 kilometers (124 miles) south of Auckland, the Waitomo Caves are one of New Zealand’s most captivating natural wonders. Set in the heart of the Waikato region, these iconic limestone caves draw visitors from around the world, offering a unique underground experience like no other.
The main attraction here is the famous glow-worm cave, where thousands of bioluminescent glow-worms light up the dark, creating a surreal, starry sky beneath the earth. Visitors can take boat tours that glide through the caves, floating beneath this dazzling natural light show.
Beyond the glow-worms, Waitomo also offers a range of other caves, each with its own charm. The Ruakuri Cave is known for its dramatic limestone formations and ancient stalactites, while adventurous souls can opt for black-water rafting through underground rivers and narrow passages.
Getting There
Waitomo Caves is easily accessible from major cities on the North Island. From Auckland, the drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours via State Highway 1 and then State Highway 3. Alternatively, you can book guided tours that include transportation from Auckland.
There are also bus services connecting Waitomo to Hamilton, which is around 1.5 hours away.
Ticket Costs
Ticket prices vary depending on the cave tours and experiences you choose:
Glowworm Cave Tour: Around NZD $55 for adults and NZD $25 for children. This tour typically lasts 45 minutes and is the highlight for most visitors.
Ruakuri Cave: NZD $50 for adults and NZD $25 for children. This tour lasts about 1 hour and offers a deeper look into the stunning limestone formations.
Aranui Cave: NZD $30 for adults and NZD $15 for children. It’s a shorter, self-guided option through another beautiful cave system.
For more information about Waitomo Caves, click here.