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Grotto · Waitomo Caves, Waikato
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
The best known cave in Waitomo, with limestone chambers, the Cathedral’s acoustics, and a silent boat ride beneath a ceiling covered in glowworms.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Waitomo Cave (Waitomo Glowworm Caves) is in the village of Waitomo, about 75 km south of Hamilton. It is the oldest tourist attraction in the region: in 1887 the Māori chief Tāne Tinorau and the English surveyor Fred Mace explored it on a raft, and visits began soon after. Today the cave once again belongs to Tinorau’s descendants, who take part in its management.
The guided tour covers two levels of the cave, with stalactites, stalagmites and the Cathedral, a chamber about 13 meters high with acoustic properties so good it has hosted concerts. The guide explains limestone formation and the life cycle of the glowworms.
The final section is by boat, in silence, along the underground river. The guide pulls the boat by cables, in the dark, under the Glowworm Cave, where thousands of larvae of Arachnocampa luminosa, an insect found only in New Zealand, shine on the ceiling with a blue-green light to attract prey.
Photos and filming are not allowed inside the cave. The visit is paid and runs at scheduled times throughout the day; check the current timetable.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes for the guided ride.
Best time
The early morning time slots usually have smaller groups. Inside the cave the temperature is cool and stable year-round, and the visit does not depend on outside weather.
How to get there
By car, about 1 hour from Hamilton and 2.5 hours from Auckland, via SH3 and the Waitomo road. Organized tours depart from Auckland and Rotorua. There are no regular buses to the village.
Tip
Book your time slot in advance in summer. To see more, there are combined tickets with Ruakuri and Aranui caves. Bring a light jacket.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Can you take photos inside Waitomo Cave?
No. Photos and filming are not allowed inside the cave to protect the glowworms.
How long does the visit to Waitomo Cave last?
About 45 minutes, including the guided walk and the boat ride.
What are the Waitomo glowworms?
They are larvae of an insect found only in New Zealand, Arachnocampa luminosa, which glow on the cave ceiling to attract prey.
How do you get from Auckland to the Waitomo caves?
By car, in about 2.5 hours, or on an organized tour with transport.