Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, though children should be supervised and prepared for walking in caves.

Are the caves wheelchair accessible?

Waitomo Glowworm Cave has limited accessibility due to natural terrain; however, Ruakuri Cave offers a wheelchair-accessible pathway.

Can I take photos inside the caves?

Flash photography is not allowed to protect the glowworms, but non-flash photography is permitted in some areas.

What should I wear for the tour?

Wear layered clothing and sturdy, non-slip shoes; cave temperatures remain cool year-round.

How long is the walk inside the caves?

Expect about 1.5 to 2 hours of walking through various cave passages at an easy to moderate pace.

Is food provided during the tour?

Yes, a café-style lunch is included as part of the tour package.

Explore New Zealand’s Magical Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Private Tour | Guided Tour | Photography Tour

Just a two-hour drive south of Auckland lies one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary natural wonders: the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. This private 11-hour tour offers an immersive journey deep into limestone caverns where thousands of Arachnocampa luminosa, bioluminescent glowworms found only here, light up the subterranean world like a starry night sky. The adventure begins with luxurious private transport from Auckland—perfect for travelers seeking comfort alongside discovery. Upon arrival, you’ll glide silently on a guided boat ride beneath a ceiling of twinkling glowworms in the iconic Waitomo Glowworm Cave. This surreal experience feels like floating through an underground galaxy, a scene unlike any other on Earth. But the tour doesn’t stop there. Next, venture into Ruakuri Twin Cave, a less explored but equally mesmerising site renowned for its impressive limestone formations sculpted over millions of years. Walking through winding paths and narrow chambers, you’ll see dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient rock formations that reveal the geological forces behind New Zealand’s karst landscape. One highlight is the Cathedral Cave within Ruakuri, famous for its natural acoustics. Here, the guide may offer a chance to hear the ethereal echo of a waiata (Māori song) or simply enjoy the silence reverberating through the cavern’s vast dome. The caves’ history and Māori cultural significance come alive through expert commentary, enhancing your appreciation for this protected heritage site. The experience includes a café-style lunch, thoughtfully included so you can refuel comfortably before or after the cave explorations. This private tour balances convenience and exclusivity—small group sizes mean more personal attention and ample time to soak in every detail. Waitomo and Ruakuri are top destinations on the North Island for lovers of land adventures, geological phenomena, and unique wildlife encounters. The glowworms, exclusive to this region, create a scene unmatched worldwide. Being underground in these caves highlights the fragility and wonder of New Zealand’s natural environment. Whether you’re a geology buff, a nature photographer, or simply a traveler searching for a captivating day trip from Auckland, this tour delivers an unforgettable glimpse into an ancient world glowing just beneath the surface.

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

11 hours.

Fitness level

Participants should have moderate fitness to comfortably walk through caves and maintain balance on uneven surfaces.

Wildlife

Glowworms (Arachnocampa luminosa) unique to Waitomo caves.
Native birds such as fantails and tui in the surrounding forested areas.

History

Waitomo caves have been significant to Māori iwi (tribes) for centuries and were opened for tourism in the early 1900s.

Conservation

Strict guidelines protect the delicate cave ecosystem and glowworm colonies to ensure sustainable tourism while preserving natural beauty.

ExperienceKart Limited is a New Zealand tour operator based in Auckland that designs and delivers private, small-group and multi-day experiences across the North Island. The company offers a broad range of itineraries including cultural tours (Auckland Urban Māori Experience, Te Pā Tū Evening Cultural Experience), geothermal and cave adventures (Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Wai-O-Tapu, Waimangu), coastal and marine trips (Bay of Islands, Auckland Coastal Discovery, Coromandel Peninsula), and specialist activities such as Hobbiton visits, white-water rafting, canopy tours and wine tastings. Tours run from half-day city discoveries to multi-day luxury packages, with options for private guides, small-group departures and bespoke services. Many itineraries include trusted partners and local experts for cultural performance, guided walks, boat cruises, and Māori heritage site visits such as the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. ExperienceKart Limited operates from Auckland and lists 57 tours and experiences covering highlights such as the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Waitomo, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and Hawke's Bay. The company emphasizes curated transportation, local knowledge, and immersive activities designed to showcase New Zealand’s landscapes and culture. Several itineraries include luxury transport, four-star accommodation, optional spa retreats, and curated food experiences. Guides deliver dolphin cruises, Hole in the Rock trips, jet boating and walks at Cape Reinga and Lake Taupō. Booking details, availability and full itineraries are provided per tour, with service types suitable for independent travelers, couples, families and small groups seeking cultural immersion, adventure or coastal relaxation.

Base locationAuckland, Auckland

Tours offered57+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace