Boat through limestone caves lit by thousands of tiny glowworms — one of New Zealand's most otherworldly natural experiences.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
The Waitomo Caves system contains vast limestone caverns studded with thousands of Arachnocampa luminosa glowworms that create a bioluminescent night sky effect in total darkness. Visitors can take a peaceful boat tour beneath the glowworm grotto, or opt for the black water rafting experience — tubing through underground rivers with a headlamp. The standard Glowworm Cave tour takes about 45 minutes and is appropriate for all ages. From NZD$55.
What Stands Out
- 44 hobbit holes to explore
- Thousands of bioluminescent glowworms illuminating the cave ceiling
- Silent boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto
- Dramatic limestone cave formations (stalactites and stalagmites)
- Cathedral Chamber with exceptional acoustics
- Guided tours sharing Māori history and cave discovery
- One of New Zealand’s most iconic natural experiences