German Speaking Tour of Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, Opua Kauri Walk
Active
4h
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
This tour is for Cruise Ship customers and all members of the public staying in the Bay of Islands.
Your German speaking guide was born in Germany but has lived in New Zealand for the past 20 years.
He has a wealth of knowledge about the history of New Zealand, Maori culture and native vegetation and birds.
We visit the Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, the Hundertwasser Toilets and take a leisurely 30-minute walk through the Opua Forest. All tours are approximately 3 hours long and leave from the Waitangi wharf at 9.30 am on Cruise Ship days. On other days the tour leaves from the Paihia I-site at 9.30am.
The price includes Cave entry, and the Maori guides are members of the family who have owned the attraction for over 400 years.
Available options
Kawiti Glow Worm Cave Tour
What's included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Detailed itinerary
1
Our destination is the Kawiti Glowworm Caves where a local Māori guide will lead you through underground caverns to see the glow worms and tell you how the caves came to be found.
Your 30-minute guided tour will follow a wooden boardwalk (with handrails) through a 200-metre limestone cave system. Once inside, you will see thousands of glow worms spread across the ceiling surrounded by breath taking stalactites and stalagmites.
2
Then, a short drive to Kawakawa, location of the world famous "Hundertwasser Toilets" one of the few public toilets seen as an international work of art, designed by the expatriate Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, features the use of recycled materials from the local community.
3
The lookout at the Golf Club offers spectacular photo opportunities looking out over Waitangi Bay.
4
Here you will see Kauri trees that are over one thousand years old.
Your guide will also point out other trees and birds of interest.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Meeting point
The tour departs from the Bay of Islands Yacht Club at 9.30am. Cruise Ship passengers, please walk to the end of the jetty. You will see our sign (Mullarkey Tours) please check in there.
About Paihia
Paihia is a charming coastal town in the Bay of Islands, known for its stunning beaches, rich Māori heritage, and as the departure point for the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. It offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, making it a popular destination for both local and international travelers.
Top Attractions
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a historic site where the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document, was signed in 1840. It offers a rich cultural experience with guided tours, a museum, and traditional Māori performances.
Historical
2-4 hours
Moderate (Entry fees apply)
Paihia Beach
A beautiful, sandy beach with clear waters, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and relaxing. The beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Beach
1-2 hours or as desired
Free
Haruru Falls
A scenic waterfall located just a short drive from Paihia. The falls are easily accessible via a short walk from the car park, making them a popular spot for a quick nature fix.
Nature
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Russell
A charming historic town across the bay from Paihia, known for its colonial architecture, historic sites, and relaxed atmosphere. Russell is accessible by ferry and offers a glimpse into New Zealand's early history.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Ferry fare and entry fees to attractions)
Otehei Bay
A stunning beach located on Urupukapuka Island, known for its clear waters, white sand, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Otehei Bay is a popular spot for a day trip or picnic.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate (Boat tour or rental fees)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fresh Seafood
Paihia is known for its fresh seafood, including fish, mussels, and lobster. Dishes are often prepared with local ingredients and served in a variety of styles.
Lunch/Dinner
Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available at many restaurants.
Hāngī
A traditional Māori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Hāngī typically includes meats like pork, chicken, and lamb, as well as kumara (sweet potato) and other vegetables.
Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options may be available upon request.
Kumara Fries
A popular Māori dish made from sweet potato (kumara) that is cut into fries and served with a variety of dipping sauces. It's a delicious and healthy alternative to regular fries.
Snack/Side Dish
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Paihia Pavlova
A classic New Zealand dessert made with a crisp meringue base, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. Paihia's version often features local berries and tropical fruits.
Dessert
Gluten-free and can be made vegan with plant-based whipped cream.
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Sailing
Hiking
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Beach lounging
Picnicking
Spa treatments
Best Time to Visit
December to March (Summer)
This is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and ideal conditions for water activities. The town is vibrant with festivals and events.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time, NZST)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Paihia is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and accommodations
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Kerikeri Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles)
- Bay of Islands Airport • 2 km (1.2 miles)
By bus
Kerikeri Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus service is not extensive but can be useful for getting around locally. Schedules are limited, so planning is essential.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Local taxi services can be booked by phone.
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Paihia Town Center
Waitangi
Opua
Day trips
Russell
3 km (1.8 miles) across the bay • Half day to full day
A charming historic town with colonial architecture, historic sites, and a relaxed atmosphere. Russell is accessible by ferry from Paihia and offers a glimpse into New Zealand's early history.
Haruru Falls
5 km (3.1 miles) • Half day
A scenic waterfall located just a short drive from Paihia. The falls are easily accessible via a short walk from the car park, making them a popular spot for a quick nature fix.
Otehei Bay
5 km (3.1 miles) from Paihia (by boat) • Half day to full day
A stunning beach located on Urupukapuka Island, known for its clear waters, white sand, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Otehei Bay is a popular spot for a day trip or picnic.
Festivals
Waitangi Day • February 6th
Paihia Seafood Festival • March (dates vary)
Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival • January (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performance.
- Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the beautiful beaches and waterways of the Bay of Islands.
- Take a ferry to Russell for a scenic journey and to explore the historic town's colonial architecture and museums.
- Try the local seafood, including fish and chips, seafood platters, and Māori-inspired dishes like hāngī.
- Visit the Chocolate Shop for a sweet treat and to sample some of the town's famous artisanal chocolates.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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