Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland -Smaller Groups

Auckland , New Zealand

Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland -Smaller Groups

Active

(75 reviews)

13h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Choose FlexiToursNZ for a premium tour. We put less seats in our vehicles than factory standard and only 3 seats in the back row. Pay a little more to be comfortable. This tour involves a lot of driving and is more enjoyable if you are comfortable and not crushed up
against other people on the vehicle. We keep the groups small with no more than 12 people on our vehicle, meaning our drivers can and will give you, personal service.
Check out our reviews to see what customers say about us, our vehicles and our team of experienced and enthusiastic drivers.
All meals provided on the tour are prepared in a professional kitchen and are normally served in a restaurant or café.
Very occasionally Meals may be served picnic style

Available options

Finish in Rotorua

Finish in Rotorua<br/>Buffet Lunch at Te Puia<br/>Minibus<br/>Pickup included

Rotorua Waitomo Caves Day Tour

One day tour with options - You may Tour starts in Auckland and can finish in Auckland or Rotorua (price is the same)<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Luxury minibus , leather seating - extra legroom

Buffet Lunch at Te Puia

Local taxes

Live commentary on board

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Within TE Puia you will find the national schools of wood carving, weaving, stone and bone carving. They have shared these treasures with manuhiri (visitors) for 170 years and proudly continue that legacy today

Stop 2 Pass by

We have limited time in Rotorua so we quickly have a look at Lake Rotorua on our way in or way out of Rotorua

Stop 3

Te Puia where you will have lunch and time to explore Te Puia - total time in Rotorua approximately 1.5 hours. Te Puia spans 70 hectares within the historic Te Whakarewarewa Valley, on the edge of Rotorua. It is home to the Pohutu geyser, mud pools, hot springs, silica formations, the Kiwi bird and the national schools of wood carving, weaving, stone and bone carving

Stop 4

We travel to Waitomo Caves, World renowned and a magnet for both local and overseas visitors, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves occupy a high placing in the New Zealand vacation wish-list. The glow worm, Arachnocampa luminosa, is unique to New Zealand. Thousands of these tiny creatures radiate their unmistakable luminescent light as expert guides provide informative commentary on the Caves' historical and geological significance. You will walk into the caves and sail out in a small boat.

What's not included

Morning and afternoon tea (additional expense)

Pickup outside of the City Centre, shuttles can be arranged for a small fee

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

65 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Small-group tour

Infant meals not included

Infant seats are required by law in NZ in private vehicles for children under 7 years. We recommend the same standard be applied for your child's safety and have them available in all vehicles.

Tour is not suitable for children under 2 years to travel with group - private tours can be arranged on request

Important notes

Please phone or email to reconfirm your booking 24 hours prior to departure. If you are staying a hotel please supply your room number and a phone number (local or International) we can reach you on (Customer service are to call between 7am and 9pm New Zealand time).

Hotel pickups from 6:30am.

Please note you must be ready and waiting at your specified time. We have set times at the attractions on tour and we apologize but we cannot wait for late passengers.

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.