Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour (One Way)
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this small group, fully guided One Way trip visit the stunning Waitomo Glowworm Caves and other stops and secret locations on the way from Auckland to Rotorua.
Highlights:
• Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Wildlife viewing
Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in a modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.
While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
Available options
Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour (One Way)
Pickup included
Tour + Te Puia Entry & Tour
Te Puia Geothermal Park Entry : Te Puia Geothermal Park Entry & Guided Tour <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Entry ticket and fully guided tour - Waitomo Caves
Small Group & Fully Guided Tour
Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
Water available & snacks provided
Detailed itinerary
1
Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out of the city, your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today, but also point out and guide you past some of the city’s top highlights.
2
Exiting Auckland we drive south through the stunning Waikato countryside, the most extensive farming area in the world. Encounter stunning scenery, mighty rivers, great photo opportunities, beautiful mountains and several farm animals along the way. During this journey we pass through Taupiri which has many interesting sites of cultural significance including local Maori burial grounds & cultural totem poles.
3
After passing through rich countryside and learning about some local history and the New Zealand Land Wars we stop in this idyllic little town for a quick coffee break.
4
Continuing our adventure we enter Otorohanga “The Kiwiana capital of New Zealand”. See all things Kiwi as you pass through this unique and charming town.
5
Stop 5
Arriving at Waitomo Glowworm Caves you will be guided through the ancient and amazing caves seeing many different cave formations including Stalactites, Stalagmites and Lime Columns before descending even further underground for your Glowworm experience. Board your glow-worm boat for a cruise on the grotto river with thousands of Glowworms sparkling above you. Unique to New Zealand for over 120 years, Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must-see for any traveller.
6
Stop 6
Once in Rotorua your guide will drop you at your accommodation in Rotorua (central hotels only) or at a main Rotorua central location, or choose to visit Te Puia before ending your tour !
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
13 reviews
5★
9
4★
4
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
52 reviews
5★
46
4★
5
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can provide your own or one can be provided for $20 NZD (with 24 hours notice).
Due to the delicate ecosystem within the Waitomo Caves, photography is not permitted inside.
Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, a moderate amount of walking is involved.
Important notes
• Pick-ups start 20 mins before the tour time. Please check your pickup time to ensure you do not miss your pickup. We are unable to wait for late guests. No refunds given for no show passengers.
• You will be picked up in a minibus with Cheeky Kiwi Travel signwriting on it.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
