Deep underground in the heart of the Waikato are a series of unique caves that will take your breath away. Ruakuri Cave is home to swirling rivers, echoing waterfalls, and rocks that flow into delicate shawl-like formations.
Nearby, at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, thousands of tiny glowworms cling to the cave ceiling, creating a starry sky within the underground night. Youll also see a deep limestone shaft and a soaring subterranean cathedral that will leave you speechless.
Just five minutes down the road from the Waitomo Glowworm Caves is Aranui Cave. With a natural cave entrance, it is the smallest and most delicate of Waitomo's three main caves. However, just inside the entrance is a colony of native New Zealand cave wetas and further into the cave is the most beautiful collection of stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones and decorative formations.
Note: online bookings need to be made at least 48 hours prior to your arrival at the caves
Take a guided tour through the world-renowned Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Your guide will deliver a highly informative commentary about the formations and the history of the area with the highlight of your tour an unrivalled boat trip through the spectacular Glowworm Grotto
Unique and spectacular, Ruakuri Cave offers a captivating blend of all the best that the region has to offer. Whilst weaving your way through the vast caverns of this dynamic natural environment, this is enhanced by walkways constructed to respect the spirit of the cave as well as protecting the environment.
Set in the Ruakuri Scenic Reserve, the Aranui Cave is the smallest and most delicate of the three Waitomo Caves. Experience the delicate formations and magnificent tall chambers in Aranui Cave and see real New Zealand cave wetas.
Tour Duration:
Waitomo Glowworm Caves: Allow 45 minutes
Ruakuri Cave: Allow 2 hours
Aranui Cave: Allow 45 minutes
Ruakuri Cave and Aranui Cave tour times must be pre-booked, however tours run through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves throughout the day (during opening hours).