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Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Experience - Small Group Tour From Auckland

25 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 25 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor |
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100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
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from US$273.76 per person

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Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Experience - Small Group Tour From Auckland Image 1
Waitomo Glowworm Cave
Waitomo Glowworm Cave Grotto Boat Ride
Waitomo Glowworm Cave
Waitomo Glowworm Cave - Cathedral Cave

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On average, this is booked 24 (0) days in advance.
11 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
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Overview

Get the most out of your visit with a package to explore more than just one unforgettable cave at Waitomo in this small group day tour from Auckland. Visiting the Waitomo Glowworm Caves is a must-do experience, with the Arachnocampa Luminosa species of glowworm only found in New Zealand. This most popular combo combines the famous Waitomo glowworm cave with a walking tour of the stunning Ruakuri Cave providing an ultimate Waitomo caving experience.

What's Included

  • Leave you open-mouthed, awe-struck and humbled by the sheer majesty of nature
  • Stare up at thousands of glowing glow-worms above you
  • Complimentary refreshments and water on board
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Lunch
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

We pick up passengers from selected hotels in Auckland CBD. If your hotel is not in this list, please choose the closest alternative pickup location. If you require assistance in choosing the closest alternative pickup location, please contact the operator in advance so that we can assist you.Please see below timings of your pickup based on your selected pickup location. Please make sure you are present at the pickup location 10 minutes prior to your scheduled pickup time. We cannot hold the bus if you are late, and no refunds will be provided to late or no-show passengers.Scheduled Pick-Up Timings[06:00 AM - Sofitel Auckland, Park Hyatt, Swiss Bel-Suites Victoria Park]; [06:05 AM - M Social, Hilton Auckland]; [06:10 AM - Mövenpick Hotel, Nesuto Stadium Hotel and Apartments, Adina Apartment Hotel]; [06:15 AM - Pullman Auckland, JW Marriot, voco Auckland City Centre, Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre, ibis Budget Auckland City Centre]; [06:20 AM - Crowne Plaza Auckland, SkyCity Hotel, The Grand By SkyCity, Heritage Auckland, Rydges Auckland]; [06:25 AM - Four Points By Sheraton Auckland, Grand Millennium Auckland, VR Auckland City Hobson Street]; [06:30 AM - Cordis Auckland, Mercure Auckland, Kiwi International, VR Queen Street Hotel & Suites]

OR
Meeting point

Customs Street East
Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

Options & Pricing

Start Time • Daily 6:30 AM

What To Expect

Auckland Central

We pickup travellers from most locations in the Auckland CBD location. If your pickup location is not available on the list, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our very best to accommodate your request.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Bombay Hills (Pass By)

The Bombay Hills are a range of hills to the south of Auckland, New Zealand. Though only a small and seemingly insignificant range of hills, they lie at the southern boundary of the Auckland region, and serve as a divide between Auckland and the Waikato region. directly named after the ship Bombay, The ship itself was named after the Indian city of Bombay (now Mumbai). Bombay Means: a breed of black short-haired medium-sized cat.
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Robert Harris

We stop to get some great coffee at your own expense and a comfort break before we continue our journey into the Waikato region.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Te Awamutu (Pass By)

Te Awamutu calls itself the ‘Rose Capital of New Zealand’. During the blooming season, November to April, the garden next to the visitor centre is a technicolour dream as 2000 rose bushes turn on the charm.
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Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Be amazed by thousands of magical glowworms above as you glide silently by boat in the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. The enchanting Waitomo Caves have been attracting visitors for more than 120 years, thanks to their incredible limestone formations and luminescent glowworms. The subterranean cave system is located beneath the rolling green countryside of the Waikato, one of New Zealand’s prime farming regions. Your guided Waitomo Caves tour will be an unforgettable sightseeing experience as you walk through majestic caverns, explore limestone shafts, marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites and enjoy a boat ride through a grotto lit by thousands of tiny native glowworms.​Glowworm caves in New Zealand offer visitors the chance to explore dark caves that are lit up by thousands of tiny glowworms (scientifically known as Arachnocampa Luminosa) who shine bright as a way to attract their prey.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Ruakuri Cave

Offering a captivating blend of the most compelling subterranean experiences (including glowworms), it will leave you open-mouthed, awe-struck and humbled by the sheer majesty of nature. Begin the tour by journeying down through the spectacular, man-made spiral entrance, marvel at the softly folding shawl-like limestone formations and crystal tapestries while listening to the distant thunder of subterranean waterfalls. If you want to see glowworms up-close and personal and learn about their fascinating life, then this is the tour for you.
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2 hours • Admission Ticket Included

Auckland Central

After an exhilarating fun-filled experience at Waitomo , it is now time to head back to Auckland to conclude your evening and drop-off at your hotel in Auckland. We can also drop you at your accommodation in Waitomo if you are staying locally in the region.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This is a guided walking tour and sensible walking footwear is recommended.
  • No photography is permitted inside the Waitomo caves, and cameras and Go Pros cannot be taken on the tour.
  • Photography is permitted in Ruakuri Cave so bring your camera to click the best shots.

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Experience – Small Group Tour From Auckland?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZST).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Questions?

Our friendly customer support is here to help.
Activity code: C-168163P9

Traveler Photos

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Reviews

5.00
25 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 25 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
25
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0

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On average, this is booked 24 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (7)

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Experience – Small Group Tour From Auckland?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZST).
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Leave you open-mouthed, awe-struck and humbled by the sheer majesty of nature.
  • Stare up at thousands of glowing glow-worms above you.
  • Complimentary refreshments and water on board.
  • Luxurious temperature controlled transportation.
  • Marvel at awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites during the the iconic Glow-worm Caves.
  • Walk through the Cathedral Cave and experience the amazing acoustics.
  • Experience top best North Island destinations in one day on an all-encompassing tour.
  • Admission to fully guided 90 minutes experience Waitomo Ruakuri Cave.
  • Admission to fully guided 45 minutes experience Waitomo Glow Worm Cave.
  • Fully guided return transfers from Auckland.
  • Boat ride on an underground stream through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
  • Go deeper into the story as you descend the dramatic spiral entrance.
  • Complimentary High-Speed Internet onboard the minibus.
  • Marvel at unique rock formations, subterranean rivers, and thousands of glow-worms.
  • Be captivated by the thousands of magical glow-worms as you glide silently by boat.
  • A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour.
  • Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland CBD.
  • See more glow-worms than you could ever imagine all lighting up above your head!.
  • Immerse yourself in geology and history of the Waitomo caves with the help of a tour guide.
  • Discover Waitomo’s longest underground guided walking tour as you explore Ruakuri Cave.
The following is NOT included:
  • Breakfast.
  • Dinner.
  • Lunch.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Experience - Small Group Tour From Auckland is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Experience - Small Group Tour From Auckland will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024

What's Included

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Leave you open-mouthed, awe-struck and humbled by the sheer majesty of nature
  • Stare up at thousands of glowing glow-worms above you
  • Complimentary refreshments and water on board
  • Luxurious temperature controlled transportation
  • Marvel at awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites during the the iconic Glow-worm Caves
  • Walk through the Cathedral Cave and experience the amazing acoustics
  • Experience top best North Island destinations in one day on an all-encompassing tour
  • Admission to fully guided 90 minutes experience Waitomo Ruakuri Cave
  • Admission to fully guided 45 minutes experience Waitomo Glow Worm Cave
  • Fully guided return transfers from Auckland
  • Boat ride on an underground stream through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
  • Go deeper into the story as you descend the dramatic spiral entrance
  • Complimentary High-Speed Internet onboard the minibus
  • Marvel at unique rock formations, subterranean rivers, and thousands of glow-worms
  • Be captivated by the thousands of magical glow-worms as you glide silently by boat
  • A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour
  • Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland CBD
  • See more glow-worms than you could ever imagine all lighting up above your head!
  • Immerse yourself in geology and history of the Waitomo caves with the help of a tour guide
  • Discover Waitomo’s longest underground guided walking tour as you explore Ruakuri Cave
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Lunch

Additional Info

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
  • Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, & any essential personal items.
  • Easy and good fitness level required.
  • This is a guided walking tour and sensible walking footwear is recommended.
  • No photography is permitted inside the Waitomo caves, and cameras and Go Pros cannot be taken on the tour.
  • Photography is permitted in Ruakuri Cave so bring your camera to click the best shots.
  • No backpacks or large bags allowed in cave due to delicate formations.
  • Please do not touch the formation in the cave as it discoloured easily, please help us protect our cave.
  • You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers

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American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Lowest Price Guarantee

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

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  • If you find a lower retail or prepaid rate for the same tour, offered on the same date, time and priced in the same currency as your original purchase, on any other website between the time you book on City Boat Tours and 48 hours before your trip starts, we will refund the difference.
  • The lowest price guarantee does not apply where a lower overall price is found by breaking down the purchased tour into one or more parts sold separately.
  • City Boat Tours reserves the right to verify the lower price details. Examples of acceptable forms of verification include a web screenshot or a web address.
  • All refund decisions will be made at the sole discretion of City Boat Tours.

Cancellation Policy

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Free cancellation
100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZST).
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

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On some pages, you can select how to sort the results we display and also use filter options to see only those search results that meet your chosen preferences. You'll see explanations of what those sort options mean when you select them.

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American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

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