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North Island

Start: Auckland
Duration: 1 day
Travel Time: 8 hours

Details

Auckland Adventures Before the Glowworm Caves

Start your journey with a scenic drive along Tamaki Drive, taking in Auckland’s unspoiled coastal views and vibrant city sights. Capture breathtaking photos at Mission Bay, Bastion Point, and the Auckland Waterfront, each offering a unique glimpse of the City of Sails. With every stop, you’ll uncover the charm and rhythm that make Auckland truly special.

Continue through the city to Auckland Domain, a lush green haven that hosts the impressive Auckland Museum. Crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge offers panoramic vistas of the skyline and the sparkling Hauraki Gulf beyond. The North Shore and North Head provide even more stunning views, rounding out an unforgettable exploration of Auckland’s finest highlights.

Luxurious Flavours and the Glowworm Glow

Venture northwest to visit two award-winning vineyards, where you’ll savour New Zealand’s premium wines in a serene, luxurious setting. Pair your tasting with a gourmet lunch and let the flavours capture the essence of Aotearoa’s winemaking excellence. It’s the perfect way to unwind before heading into nature’s glowing masterpiece.

At Muriwai Beach, feel the wild black sand between your toes as waves from the Tasman Sea crash dramatically along the shore. The striking contrast of coastline and raw energy sets the stage for the Waitomo Glowworm Caves Experience, where thousands of tiny lights illuminate the underground world. This exclusive tour leaves you with lasting memories of New Zealand’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Tour Highlights

  • Scenic Drive:
    • Enjoy a relaxing journey through beautiful countryside.
    • Stop for photos at scenic spots along the way.
    • Take in the stunning views of New Zealand’s rolling farmland.
  • Waitomo Glowworm Caves:
    • Marvel at breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites inside the caves.
    • Glide silently by boat beneath thousands of glowing glow-worms.
    • Learn about the caves’ fascinating history and geology from an expert guide.
  • Glowworm Grotto:
    • Experience a magical boat ride through the glowworm-lit cave.
    • Adjust to the dark as the walls and ceiling sparkle with tiny lights.
    • Witness one of nature’s most mesmerising light displays.
  • Cathedral Cave:
    • Walk through the grand Cathedral Cave, known for its remarkable acoustics.
    • Discover the cave’s natural beauty and unique rock formations.
  • Geological Wonders:
    • Explore a cave system shaped over thousands of years.
    • Observe the incredible formations created by nature.
    • See more glow-worms than you could ever imagine glowing above you!

Journey Inclusions

  • Private Return Transfers:
    • Fully guided private return transfers from Auckland.
    • Complimentary pick-up and drop-off from Auckland.
  • Onboard Amenities:
    • Complimentary refreshments and water onboard.
    • Complimentary high-speed internet onboard the minibus.
    • Luxurious temperature-controlled private transportation.
  • Guidance and Interaction:
    • A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the journey.
    • Exclusive immersive activities and interaction with local communities.
    • Built-in leisure time to explore destinations at your own pace.

Tour Inclusions

  • Admission to Attractions:
    • Fully guided 45-minute experience at Waitomo Glowworm Cave.
    • Boat ride along an underground stream through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
    • Café-style lunch at Waitomo.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

  • Departure Information:
    • Central Meeting Location: Mövenpick Hotel Auckland, 8 Customs Street East, Auckland CBD.
    • Pickup Time: 06:30 AM.
    • Please be present at the pickup location 10 minutes prior to departure.
  • General Information:
    • Children under 8 years old must travel in a child safety car seat (available for rental).
    • Children aged 5-7 years are recommended to use a booster seat.
    • Tours are suitable for people of all ages and average fitness levels.
    • The caves are accessible to those with reasonable mobility, with good handrails and paths, but no wheelchair access.
    • Caves maintain a temperature of 16-17°C year-round.
    • Please avoid touching cave formations to help preserve them.

WHAT TO BRING

  • Comfortable clothing suitable for varying conditions (warm layered clothes recommended).
  • Good grip closed-toe shoes for walking.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
  • Jersey or coat if it is cold.
  • Light rain jacket (just in case).
  • Camera or GoPro to capture the stunning scenery.
  • Essential personal items.

TOUR REQUIREMENTS

  • Comfortable clothing and sun protection.
  • Suitable for people of all ages with an easy and good fitness level required.
  • Ability to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
  • Dress with an additional layer in winter and wear closed-toe footwear.
  • Sensible walking footwear recommended for guided tours.
  • No photography permitted inside Waitomo Caves; cameras and GoPros cannot be taken on the tour.
  • No backpacks or large bags allowed in the cave due to delicate formations.
  • Special dietary requirements catered for upon request; please advise at the time of booking. Preferences and requests cannot be guaranteed and are subject to availability.

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS*

  • More than 60 days before departure: Full refund**
  • Between 30 days and 60 days before departure:  50% cancellation fee**
  • Less than 30 days before departure: No refund

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

*Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

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