Kawiti Glow Worm Cave Tour & Opua Forest 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.
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
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Detailed itinerary
1
Our destination is the Kawiti Glowworm Caves where a local Maori 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 offer spectacular photo opportunities looking out over Waitangi Bay.
4
Here you will see Kauri trees that are over one thousand years old.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
59 reviews
5★
43
4★
7
3★
8
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.8
53 reviews
5★
47
4★
4
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
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 (Bay of Islands Shuttles & Shore Trips) please check in there.Our contact number is 021 0277 3446.
Non
About Bay of Islands
The Bay of Islands is a sub-tropical paradise located in the Northland region of New Zealand's North Island. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history, it's a haven for water sports, nature lovers, and those seeking a taste of New Zealand's colonial past.
Top Attractions
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
This is the site where the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document, was signed. It's a significant cultural and historical site with museums, a marae (meeting ground), and beautiful gardens.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (NZD 45-60 for adults)
Hole in the Rock
A famous sea arch in the Bay of Islands, best viewed by boat. It's a spectacular natural formation and a popular spot for dolphin sightings.
Nature
2-3 hours (including boat tour)
Moderate to Expensive (NZD 50-120 depending on the tour)
Russell
A charming historic town with a rich past as New Zealand's first capital. It's known for its beautiful beaches, waterfront dining, and historic buildings.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary
Dolphin Coast Track
A scenic walking track offering stunning views of the Bay of Islands. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Adventure
2-4 hours depending on the section
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fresh Seafood
The Bay of Islands is renowned for its fresh seafood, including snapper, mussels, and oysters. Often served grilled, fried, or in chowder.
Main course
May contain allergens like shellfish.
Hangi
A traditional Maori method of cooking food in an earth oven, resulting in tender, smoky meats and vegetables.
Main course
Vegetarian options available, but traditionally includes meat.
Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Dessert
Contains eggs and dairy.
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Sailing
Hiking
Dolphin watching
Fishing
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Best Time to Visit
December to March (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and the best conditions for water activities. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
20°C to 28°C
68°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time, NZST). Daylight saving time (NZDT) is observed from late September to early April (GMT+13).
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
The Bay of Islands is generally a safe destination for travelers. 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.
- • Be cautious when swimming in the ocean, as currents can be strong.
- • Use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings.
Getting there
By air
- Kerikeri Airport • 25 km from Paihia
- Bay of Islands Airport (in the planning stages) • To be determined
By bus
Kerikeri, Paihia
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are available but not extensive. Services are more frequent in the summer season.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None locally, but Uber is available in some areas.
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Paihia
Russell
Kerikeri
Day trips
Cape Reinga
120 km from Paihia • Full day
Cape Reinga is the northernmost point of the North Island, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. It's a significant spiritual site for the Maori and offers stunning views and a unique cultural experience.
Waipoua Forest
100 km from Paihia • Full day
Waipoua Forest is one of the oldest and most ancient forests in New Zealand, home to the famous Tane Mahuta, a giant kauri tree. It's a place of cultural significance and natural beauty.
Mangonui
40 km from Paihia • Half day
Mangonui is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful harbor, historic sites, and fresh seafood. It's a great place to explore the local history and enjoy the scenic views.
Festivals
Waitangi Day • February 6th
Russell Regatta • February
Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival • January
Pro tips
- Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performance.
- Take a boat tour to the Hole in the Rock for the best views and dolphin spotting opportunities.
- Explore the historic town of Russell for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere and stunning waterfront views.
- Hike the Dolphin Coast Track for panoramic views of the Bay of Islands and a chance to spot local wildlife.
- Visit the local markets and shops for unique souvenirs and support local artisans.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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