Private Tour: Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland

Auckland , New Zealand

Private Tour: Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland

Active

(11 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

See the popular attraction of Waitomo Caves on this private day trip from Auckland. Whisk through the 'City of Sails' with a quick introduction by your personal guide, then travel by private vehicle to the caverns brightly lit with glowworms. A boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto is an unparalleled experience you won't soon forget and is run in groups through the caves.

Available options

English Speaking Driver/ Guide

Pickup included

Other Language Speaking Guide

Your driver/ guide is available to converse in Arabic, Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese,<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Light refreshments and bottled water

Private driver/guide

Transport by private vehicle

Entrance Tickets

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Pick up from your hotel accommodation and drive through Auckland CBD and head out towards Waitomo a small village in North Island of New Zealand.

Stop 2

Waitomo is a village on the North Island of New Zealand. It’s known for its extensive underground cave systems. Thousands of glow-worms light up the Glowworm Caves. The vast Ruakuri Cave features waterfalls and limestone formations. West, Mangapohue Natural Bridge is a high limestone arch over Mangapohue Stream. Northeast of the village.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Personal expenses

Pick up from Port/ Airport (if required)

Available languages

Guide guide

NO DE SV RU PT KO CMN EN IT FR ES AR JA DA NL

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 1.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

All guides speak English. If you should need a guide that speaks one the following languages: Arabic, Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Norwegian, Swedish, Danish- please book using OTHER LANGUAGE SPEAKING GUIDE

The tour inside the Glowworm Caves is conducted in groups

About Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, known for its stunning harbor, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant multicultural scene. With over 50 trails and 22 islands, it's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Auckland Sky Tower

The Sky Tower is Auckland's tallest structure, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

Architecture 1-2 hours NZD 39 for observation deck, NZD 189 for SkyJump

Auckland War Memorial Museum

This museum offers a comprehensive look at New Zealand's history, culture, and natural environment.

Museum 2-3 hours NZD 25 for adults, free for children under 15

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves.

Nature Full day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Adventure Half day Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way

Auckland Zoo

Auckland Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals and offers educational programs and conservation efforts.

Family 2-3 hours NZD 30 for adults, NZD 18 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hāngī

A traditional Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Meats and vegetables are cooked slowly in the earth oven, giving them a unique smoky flavor.

Dinner Contains meat, can be vegetarian if requested

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Gluten-free, can be made vegan

Fish and Chips

A classic New Zealand takeaway food, featuring fresh fish (usually snapper or tarakihi) and chips, often served with tartare sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, can be gluten-free if requested

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Skydiving Beach activities Spa treatments Wine tasting Maori cultural performances Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor events. It's perfect for beach activities and hiking.

20-25°C 68-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Auckland is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Auckland Airport • 21 km south of the city center

By train

Auckland Railway Station

By bus

Auckland Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Auckland. The network includes local, frequent, and express services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Ponsonby Devonport Mission Bay

Day trips

Waiheke Island

35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Full day

Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Rangitoto Island

25 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Half day

Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Hobbiton Movie Set

2.5 hours by car from Auckland • Full day

The Hobbiton Movie Set is a popular tourist attraction featuring the filming locations from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.

Festivals

Auckland Arts Festival • March Auckland Diwali Festival • October/November Auckland Pride Festival • February

Pro tips

Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performances.
Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day trip, and book a wine tour in advance to ensure availability.
Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting the La Cigale French Market or the Auckland Night Markets.
Hike up to the summit of Rangitoto Island for stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Use the AT HOP card for easy and discounted public transport fares.