Caving & Underground Adventures
Family-friendly Tours
Small Group Tours
Day Tours
Discover the Beauty of Ruakuri Cave
Continue the adventure at Ruakuri Cave, an equally fascinating yet distinct part of the Waitomo cave system. Begin by descending a dramatic spiral entrance, revealing a world of twisting limestone, sparkling crystals, and echoing underground waterfalls. The cave’s geological formations tell a story millions of years in the making, making this experience both mesmerising and educational.
Ruakuri Cave offers an up-close look at glowworms, letting you witness their delicate beauty and learn about their remarkable lifecycle. The cave’s serene atmosphere, paired with the gentle sound of subterranean water, makes it an unforgettable highlight of the tour. After exploring both caves, relax on your return journey to Auckland, reflecting on a day filled with nature, wonder, and pure Kiwi charm.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves:
- Marvel at stunning stalactites and stalagmites during a guided cave tour.
- Be captivated by thousands of magical glowworms as you glide silently by boat.
- Look up and witness a breathtaking display of glowworms lighting up the cave ceiling.
- Walk through the Cathedral Cave and experience its incredible acoustics.
- Learn about the cave’s history and formation over thousands of years.
- Ruakuri Cave:
- Discover Waitomo’s longest underground guided walking tour.
- Be amazed by unique rock formations, underground rivers, and thousands of glowworms.
- Experience the dramatic spiral entrance as you descend into the depths of the cave.
- Marvel at the intricate limestone formations and hidden wonders within.
- Natural Wonders:
- Witness more glowworms than you could ever imagine, glowing brightly above your head.
- Explore subterranean rivers and formations shaped by nature over thousands of years.
- Feel the awe and wonder of these ancient caves, leaving you amazed by their beauty.
JOURNEY INCLUSIONS
- Private Return Transfers:
- Fully guided from Auckland.
- Complimentary pick-up and drop-off from your hotel or Airbnb in Auckland.
- Onboard Comfort:
- Complimentary refreshments and bottled water.
- Free high-speed internet onboard the minibus.
- Luxurious, temperature-controlled private transport.
- Guided Experience & Leisure:
- Friendly, local English-speaking tour guide throughout the journey.
- Exclusive hands-on activities and cultural interactions.
- Free time to explore destinations at your own pace.
TOUR INCLUSIONS
- Admission to Attractions:
- Fully guided 45-minute experience at Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
- Boat ride on an underground stream through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
- Fully guided 90-minute experience at Waitomo Ruakuri Cave.
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 below 8 years old must travel in a child safety car seat (available for rental).
- Children between 5-7 years old are recommended to be in 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.
- No wheelchair access at the Waitomo Glowworm Cave.
- Caves maintain a temperature of 16-17°C year-round.
- Boat tour capacity is up to 23 people.
- Souvenir photos available for purchase after your tour.
AGE INFORMATION
- Adult: 12 years +
- Children: 3-11 years
- Infant: 2 years and under
CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS
- More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**.
- Within 24 hours before departure: No refund
A minimum number of travellers is required. If the tour is cancelled due to low numbers, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full 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.*
