One of New Zealand's most popular attractions, the sparkling glow worms and echoing acoustics make this underground palace an unforgettable experience.
Stroll through the deep limestone chambers and listen in for the sound of the underground waterfalls throughout the cavernous darkness. Visitors will glide over the dark black waters and gaze up at the dazzling glow worms that line the roof of the Waitomo Caves. For those looking for a more physical experience, abseil down into the caves and tube through this underground labyrinth on a “black-water rafting” tour. The Waitomo Caves have been a major attraction in New Zealand for over 100 years. Most visits focus on the Ruakuri, the Aranui and the Glowworm Cave, but a further 300 are in existence in the area. The entrance to the Glowworm Cave is situated just behind the main visitor centre. A 45-minute tour is available to visitors and begins with a descent into The Cathedral, so called for it cathedral-like acoustics. A boat then takes visitors into a smaller area of the cave which is entirely illuminated by thousands of glow worms, a truly remarkable sight. To explore other caves in the area, visitors should be prepared to walk for an hour or arrange transport via the visitor centre. The Aranui cave is dry and does not therefore have any glow worms. What it lacks in glow worms though, it makes up for in size and natural beauty. The majestic rock formations look almost sculpted into the walls and ceiling of this beautiful underground sanctuary. You can take a 2-hour tour of the Ruakuri cave, which begins at a spiral staircase and takes visitors on a 1.6-kilometre visit of the caverns, passing stunning waterfalls and areas of glow worms on the way. For those wanting to inject a bit more excitement into the experience, adventure tours are on offer where visitors can abseil down dark tunnels and climb along narrow ledges. Rafting and swimming through the rivers is another way in which visitors can spice up their cave viewing tours. For more information about adventure tours, visitors should ask at the visitor centre or book in advance online. The visitor centre has a café and provides guests with a brief history of the region.Situated an approximate 1 hour’s drive south of Hamilton, the Waitomo Caves are open daily and run tours at regular intervals. If you wish to visit more than one cave, it’s best to purchase a “Cave Combo” ticket from the visitor centre for a discount.
