Overview
Waitomo Caves is famous for its glowworm-filled cave system, a must-see natural wonder in New Zealand. Visitors can take boat rides through the caves, experiencing the magical glowworms lighting up the dark cave ceilings.
Waitomo Caves is renowned for its unique glowworm population and stunning cave formations, attracting visitors from around the world.
Location
Address
39 Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo Caves, Waikato
Neighborhood: Waitomo Caves
Coordinates
-38.199100, 175.176000
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better experience
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • lush greenery
- • flowers
summer
warm to hot
- • extended daylight
- • warm temperatures
autumn
mild to cool
- • fall colors
- • cooler temperatures
winter
cool to cold
- • cooler temperatures
- • fewer tourists
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead
- Bring ID
- Check weather
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate, some walking and stairs
- • uneven surfaces
- • low ceilings in some areas
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
credit cards, debit cards, cash
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, comfortable shoes, layers for changing temperatures, walking shoes, good for uneven terrain, inappropriate clothing, high heels
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours for full refund
- • available with online booking
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Waitomo Caves Official App
Size: 60 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Tour information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Hamilton International Airport
Distance: 100 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 20 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique natural wonder, historical significance
Historical Significance: The caves have been a significant site for the local Maori people for centuries.
Insider Tips
- Best views at boat entrance
- Local cafe serves great coffee
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Maori cuisine
- • Ask for guide Sarah
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Maori, French, German
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Boat entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for boats
Result: Great shot of boats and glowworms
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Ruakuri Cave
Distance: 5 km
Walking: 10 min
Type: Cave System
Ardmore Glacier
Distance: 15 km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Natural Wonder
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early"
- "Bring a jacket"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (21)
Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour
Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Guided Day Trip from Auckland incl lunch
From Auckland: Waitomo Glowworm & Cave Explorer Small Group Tour
Waitomo Glow Worm Caves
Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Kiwi House Small Group from Auckland
From Auckland:Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour
Auckland: Rotorua Māori Village, Waitomo Caves & Lunch
Waitomo Glowworm Caves In a Private Small Group Tour-Auckland.
Private Tour: Hobbiton & Waitomo Glowworm Cave Experience
Private Round Trip Transport To Waitomo Caves From Auckland
Private Waitomo Caves Tour - Auckland Tour House
Auckland: Te Puia Rotorua & Waitomo Caves Small Group with Lunch
Auckland to Waitomo Caves Private Tour
Auckland to Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set Private Tour
5-Day Bay of Islands, Auckland, Hobbiton, Rotorua & Waitomo Tour
Waitomo Glow Worm Caves Tour from Auckland
Rotorua to Auckland via Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves OneWay Private Tour
3-Day Hobbiton, Rotorua, Whakarewarewa, and Waitomo Tour
Auckland : Waitomo Spellbound Glow Worm Twin Caves Private Tour
Sanctuary Mountain (Mt Maungatautari) & Waitomo Luxury Day tour from Auckland
Private 2 Days Tour from Auckland - Waitomo, Hobbiton and Rotorua
Quick Info
Available Tours
89
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$40