Waitomo Glowworm Caves - Private Tour From Auckland

Auckland , New Zealand

Waitomo Glowworm Caves - Private Tour From Auckland

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(3 reviews)

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

Experience the moment of magic on a luxurious small group tour from Auckland to Waitomo and marvel at thousands of glow worms located beneath the rolling green countryside of the Waikato, one of New Zealand’s prime farming regions. The subterranean cave system is most unforgettable sightseeing experience as you walk through majestic caverns, exploring limestone shafts, marvelling at the stalactites and stalagmites and ride a boat beneath thousands of tiny glow-worms inhabit the cave and put on a mesmerising light display likened to the twinkling night sky.

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Waitomo Glowworm Caves - Private Tour From Auckland

Pickup included

What's included

Stare up at thousands of glowing glow-worms above you

Fully guided return transfers from Auckland

Refreshments and water onboard

Marvel at awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites during the tour of the iconic Glow-worm Caves

All Fees and Taxes

Walk through the Cathedral Cave and experience the amazing acoustics

Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusive immersive activities and interaction with local communities

Boat ride on an underground stream through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Built-in leisure time, to explore destinations as you wish

Witness the history created over thousands of years

WiFi on board

Luxurious temperature-controlled transportation in a minibus

A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the journey

Complimentary High-Speed Internet onboard the minibus

See more glow-worms than you could ever imagine all lighting up above your head

Be captivated by the thousands of magical glow-worms as you glide silently by boat

Admission to fully guided 45 minutes experience at Waitomo Glow Worm Cave

Unrivalled boat trip through the spectacular Glowworm Grotto

Immerse yourself in geology and history of the Waitomo caves with the help of a tour guide

Pick up and drop off from port of Auckland

Detailed itinerary

We pickup travellers from most locations in the Auckland CBD location. If your pickup location is not available on the list, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our very best to accommodate your request.

The Bombay Hills are a range of hills to the south of Auckland, New Zealand. Though only a small and seemingly insignificant range of hills, they lie at the southern boundary of the Auckland region, and serve as a divide between Auckland and the Waikato region. directly named after the ship Bombay, The ship itself was named after the Indian city of Bombay (now Mumbai). Bombay Means: a breed of black short-haired medium-sized cat.

We stop to get some great coffee at your own expense and a comfort break before we continue our journey into the Waikato region.

Te Awamutu calls itself the ‘Rose Capital of New Zealand’. During the blooming season, November to April, the garden next to the visitor centre is a technicolour dream as 2000 rose bushes turn on the charm.

Stop 5

Discover your moment of magic in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour. Known as one of New Zealand’s best natural attractions, take a boat ride through the glow worm grotto, marvel at thousands of magical glowworms and become part of over 130 years of cultural and natural history.

Discover an ancient world 30 million years in the making and marvel at Mother Nature’s light display as you glide silently through the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto. Experience the serene ambience as you enter this galaxy of tiny living lights. The glowworm (Arachnocampa Luminosa) is unique to New Zealand, making the Waitomo Glowworm Caves an absolute must-do. See thousands of these tiny creatures as they radiate their unmistakable luminescent light in a subterranean world.

After an exhilarating fun-filled experience at Waitomo, it is now time to head back to Auckland to conclude your evening and drop-off at your hotel in Auckland. We can also drop you at your accommodation in Waitomo if you are staying locally in the region.

What's not included

Coffee and/or Tea

Breakfast

Alcoholic Beverages

Dinner

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, & any essential personal items.

Easy and good fitness level required.

This is a guided walking tour and sensible walking footwear is recommended.

No photography is permitted inside the Waitomo caves, and cameras and Go Pros cannot be taken on the tour.

No backpacks or large bags allowed in cave due to delicate formations.

Please do not touch the formation in the cave as it discoloured easily, please help us protect our cave.

You will join a group tour at Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Boat tour capacity is up to 23 people.

The caves are accessible to those with reasonable mobility, as there are good handrails and paths. There is no wheelchair access.

Tours are suitable for people of all ages and average fitness.

This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

This is a fully guided shore excursion tour. We only pick up from the port of Auckland and this tour operates on selected dates and only when the cruise ship arrives in Auckland.

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.