Waitomo Caves

The Waitomo Caves are a network of limestone caves on New Zealand’s North Island, famous for the bioluminescent glowworms that adorn their ceilings. The area includes several show caves and adventure-caving routes managed for guided tourist access.

The most-visited feature is the glowworm grotto, reached by a short guided boat trip under thousands of tiny bioluminescent larvae. In addition to the boat tour, other caves in the area such as Ruakuri and Aranui offer walking tours and more involved adventure activities like blackwater rafting.

The caves were formed by underground rivers eroding the limestone over geological time and have been known and used by local Māori before development as a tourist destination in the 19th and 20th centuries. Management focuses on conservation of the glowworm habitat while providing guided access.

The site is in the Waikato region near the village of Waitomo and Te Kuiti, on the North Island, roughly 200 kilometres south of Auckland by road.

• Glowworms: The bioluminescent glow is produced by the native glowworm species Arachnocampa luminosa; guided boat trips through the grotto are the classic experience.
• Adventure tours: Adventure activities such as blackwater rafting and caving are available in selected cave systems and require booking and basic fitness.

What to See #

• Waitomo Glowworm Cave: The famous glowworm grotto reached by a short guided boat ride, where thousands of glowworms light the cave ceiling and form a star-like display.
• Ruakuri Cave: A larger cave system with guided walking tours and scenic passages that includes limestone formations and glowworm displays.
• Aranui Cave: A cave system offering guided tours highlighting stalactites and stalagmites and quieter cavern spaces for visitors.