Top Waitomo Outdoor Activities

Enjoy one of New Zealand’s original tourist attractions: a tour of the magnificent Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Your guide—who may be descended from the Māori chief who first discovered the caves—leads you underground and tells you about the cultural significance of this site. Hop into a boat and glide on an underground river, enjoying the light show put on by millions of tiny bioluminescent insects hanging above.

In the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, thousands of glowworms light up the cave walls with their bioluminescent light. Set out on a journey from Auckland to Waitomo on this full-day small-group tour, navigating craggy stalactites and stalagmites while marveling at the worms’ natural display and learning about the ecological significance of the caves, and the wildlife that calls them home.

Set out on a day of adventure and exploration, admiring the beauty of nature on this small-group full-day tour. Wander through the Ruakuri Caves, navigating by the toothlike limestone formations and keeping an eye out for glowworms adorning the walls before visiting the Otorohanga Kiwi House where you’ll have the chance to see New Zealand’s iconic national bird.

Many visitors to the Waitomo Caves stick to the main tourist route, with a calm boat ride. This small-group adventure unlocks exclusive access to the hidden Okohua Glowworm Cave more energetically. Wade through crystal pools, climb ancient limestone formations, and float on a tube along underground rivers beneath thousands of glowing insects. Finish with a scenic bush walk and a soothing soak in an outdoor cedar hot tub overlooking native forest.

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must-visit North Island attraction, and while many day tours depart from Auckland, this handy tour is ideal for independent travelers who can make their own way to the caves. The Ruakuri Cave is the longest, with impressive rock formations, subterranean rivers, and thousands of glittering glowworms. Explore the magnificent cave on a guided walking tour and learn more about Māori culture as you go.

Embark on a thrilling Blackwater Rafting adventure in Ruakuri Cave. Choose between two exhilarating tours: the original Black Labyrinth, where you'll float under glowworms and jump off waterfalls, or the longer Black Abyss, which includes abseiling, ziplining, and cave exploration. Both experiences offer unforgettable encounters with the natural beauty of the cave and take you to places impossible to reach on your own.

Experience one of the wonders of New Zealand’s natural world on this glowworm caving adventure in Waitomo. Pull on your boots and helmet before heading through the private farmland and native forest to the Mangarongapu Cave system with a local guide and small group. With your headlamp to light the way, hike around huge boulders and through shallow streams, and marvel at the millions of bright green glowworms illuminating the rocky limestone.

With several caves in the Waitomo area, it can be hard to know which experience offers something truly different. This guided walking tour of Aranui Cave reveals a lesser-known side of the region, combining striking natural features with rich Māori history. Follow your guide through beautifully lit chambers to see intricate rock formations up close. Along the way, learn how the cave was formed and why it holds cultural importance, making this a rewarding alternative to more crowded cave experiences.

Photograph New Zealand's spectacular scenery both inside and outside of the caves on a private photography tour with your own photographer-guide. Visit a pristine glow worm cave in the Waitomo district, and take your time to capture great shots of the glow worms and other sights. You can use larger cameras and equipment like small tripods on this photography tour, with the freedom to take more time for your photography than on standard tours. Includes guide, use of wet weather gear, and snacks.

Escape the crowds and get off the beaten track on this exclusive glowworm cave tour based out of a family farm. This private tour is tailored to your group and lets you move at your own pace through the caves. See the mesmerizing glowworm displays and traverse the caves with your knowledgeable guide, with equipment provided. Don’t forget your camera on this intimate tour through this stunning natural wonder.

Our base in Waitomo Village, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Waitomo Caves, serves as a gateway to extraordinary adventures. Begin your journey by indulging in a moment of relaxation, savoring a cup of coffee and refreshing cold drinks while we guide you through the bike hiring experience. Indulge your senses as you traverse lush farmlands, tracing the meandering path of babbling creeks and ambling rivers. Lose yourself in pristine forests, alive with the symphony of chirping birds and the whispers of nature. Marvel at glimpses of the Central North Island Mountains and behold valley vistas that will leave you full of wonder. With every pedal stroke, immerse yourself in the magic that we offer. Let the raw beauty of the land envelop you, igniting your spirit of exploration and leaving an indelible mark on your soul. It’s time to embrace the extraordinary, discover the unheard-of, and become a part of the exceptional experience that we offer.

Embark on a captivating e-bike journey that takes you from near the world-renowned Waitomo Caves to either past the Hobitt Film Location – Hairy Feet, a magical location that served as a backdrop for scenes in the “Hobbit” film trilogy, or take a slightly longer route continuing along quiet back-country roads. Both routes culminate at the charming Fat Pigeon Cafe in the quaint village of Piopio. This ride offers an extraordinary blend of scenery alive with sounds and sights, cinematic wonders, and culinary delights. The well-maintained back-country gravel roads ensure a smooth ride, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil environment. Along the way, you might spot native birdlife and vibrant wildflowers, adding bursts of colour to the lush greenery. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, film buff, or foodie, this adventure will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper connection to the heart of Aotearoa-New Zealand.