Auckland , New Zealand

Auckland to Waitomo Caves Private Tour

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About this experience

Enjoy an amazing Private Tour from Auckland to Waitomo Caves, featuring one of New Zealand’s most famous attractions located about 2 ½ hours south of Auckland. Have a true Downunder experience to see the Waitomo Glowworm Caves Group Tour, which is one of the must-see experience on your trip of lifetime to Aotearoa (New Zealand).

Available options

Auckland to Waitomo Caves Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

All tours support local eco-cultural initiatives.

Complimentary snacks, water and lunch

Tour times: 9am to 5pm (flexible)

Pick-up and drop-off Downtown Auckland

Fully guided Private Tour in Mercedes luxury vehicle.

Entry fees for Waitomo Glowworm Caves GROUP Tour

Detailed itinerary

The Waitomo Caves, which are located about 2 ½ hours south of Auckland, is one of New Zealand’s most famous attractions. On this tour we travel via New Zealand’s famous Thermal Explorer Highway touring route, taking in the special region of Hamilton through the beautiful countryside of the Waikato and King Country.

As we drive southward, we show you sacred Taupiri Mountain as well as Ngaruawahia, the site of the famous Turangawaewae Marae (Maori meeting place) and seat of New Zealand’s Maori King. At Waitomo you will experience one of their amazing tours to explore the underground wonderland that is Waitomo Caves. The most popular option is the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a 45 minute tour, which includes a boat ride on an underground stream to view the magically dazzling glowworms. There are other caving options too, such as Cave Tubing / Black Water Rafting. Here you can float, walk and swim along underground waterways on a big, inflated tube. This is for the more adventurous and is great fun!

On our private luxury tours, we offer the various Waitomo caving options separately to our private tour since we have found our guests like to be able to book the caving option they prefer – whether that is a gentle tour or an adventurous tour to explore the caves. However, we can certainly incorporate these into your booking with us. An option is also to visit the nearby Kiwi House in Otorohanga, where you can see the Kiwi, our national bird and emblem, as well as many of our flora and fauna. Please let us know if you would like us to incorporate this option. Return to Auckland at the end of a magnificent day exploring this world-famous part of New Zealand.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.