Waitomo Glowworm & Kiwi Tour by Auckland & Beyond Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be comfortable walking moderate distances on uneven but well-maintained paths.
Overview
Glide through Waitomo’s glowworm-lit caves, savor Zealong’s premium teas, and meet elusive kiwi birds on a private full-day tour with Auckland & Beyond Tours. Discover this unique North Island adventure combining natural wonder and native wildlife.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Zealong Tea & Kiwi House Private Tour
All ages • 10 hours • Great for couples, Families and friends • Minimum 2 people
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 10-hour adventure featuring Zealong tea tasting and a guided tour of the enchanting Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Glide silently on the Waitomo River, marveling at the sparkling glowworms, and savor a delicious lunch in a scenic open-air restaurant. Conclude your day at Otorohanga Sanctuary, home to lively kiwi birds.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Zealong Tea & Kiwi Bird House
Duration
10 Hours
Tour Highlights
- Pick Up & Drop Off at Hotel
- Private Vehicle Transport with a Professional Guide Driver
- Complimentary Snacks & water
- Zealong Tea Estate tea tasting
- Waitomo Glowworm Cave Guided Group tour
- Lunch
- Boat Ride through Waitomo River
- Otorohanga Bird Sanctuary Visit
About
Experience Zealong tea tasting & learn the art of tea appreciation.
Your Guide will then take you on a 50 mins group tour inside the Waitomo Glow-worm Cave explaining the history of the Cave, the glowing worms, and the formations.
Relax on a flat bottom boat that will glide through the Waitomo River while you gaze silently at the sparkling worms. Look out at the native bush of the Waitomo region in the iconic open-air restaurant and enjoy a freshly cooked lunch.
Visit New Zealand’s largest free-flight dome aviary and view active kiwi birds throughout the day in Otorohanga Sanctuary.
Please note
- This tour require minimum 2 people
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible
- Please advise any dietary requirements you may have at the time of booking
Adventure Tips
Bring a light jacket
The cave’s temperature is cool year-round, so layering helps you stay comfortable during the tour.
Wear flat, closed-toe shoes
Uneven paths inside the caves and sanctuary require sturdy footwear for safety and comfort.
Keep voices low in caves
Respect the quiet environment to enhance your glowworm viewing and preserve natural ambiance.
Notify dietary needs early
Inform your guide about any food restrictions before the trip to ensure a safe and pleasant meal experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Glowworms (Arachnocampa luminosa), unique bioluminescent larvae found only in New Zealand caves
- Kiwi birds, nocturnal and flightless birds endemic to New Zealand, visible at Otorohanga Sanctuary
History
Waitomo caves were first discovered by Maori over a thousand years ago and have been a key cultural and spiritual site, later becoming a major attraction after European rediscovery in the late 19th century.
Conservation
Strict visitor controls inside the caves and sanctuaries help protect fragile cave ecosystems and endangered species like the kiwi, ensuring sustainable tourism balances access with preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for navigating cave interiors and sanctuary paths.
Light rain jacket
Spring showers are common, so weather protection keeps you dry and comfortable.
spring specific
Layered clothing
Caves stay cool year-round—layers help maintain warmth.
winter specific
Camera with low-light capabilities
Perfect for capturing glowworm displays where light is minimal.