Waitomo Caves

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Waitomo Glowworm Caves
2026 Global 50 - Cool Water Escapes

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

8.6
4.5/5
826 reviews
Waitomo Glowworm Cave is a limestone cave in the western mountainous area of the North Island of New Zealand, and it is also a scenic spot in New Zealand. Waitomo in Maori means "surrounded by green water". On the wall of the cave, dotted green light dots are layered upon layer upon layer. These green lights flicker on the black water, and the light and shadow are doubled. This is a wonderful world belonging to the green elves. 1. Three caves with different characteristics make up the Glowworm Cave The Glowworm Cave is mainly composed of three caves with different characteristics, Waitomo Glowworm Cave, Ruakuri Cave and Alanui Cave. The Glowworm Cave is a stalactite cave with a history of more than 10,000 years. There was a small ice-covered lake on the mountain of this cave. After the ice and snow melted, it flowed into the cracks in the rock formation below, and gradually eroded into the current cave. Cathedral Cave inside the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, this huge cave is known for its echoes of space. Ruakuri Cave is a legendary underground cave where the sound of water from an underground waterfall can be heard. The entrance of Alanui Cave is the visitor center, and the vaulted greenhouse with membrane structure is very imposing. 2. Thousands of glowworms enter the cave for a tour. You need to take a boat to enter the depths of the cave. After getting on the boat, the guide will pull the guide rope above to push the boat forward. The strange spot of light in the cave is the light emitted by thousands of fireflies. You will find patches of green and white light on the rocks. Looking closely, there are jagged translucent filaments hanging from the ceiling of the cave under the light and shadow. The silk has clear water droplets like a curtain of crystal beads. These beautiful filaments with slime are the firefly's fishing tool to attract and prey on light-following insects. This firefly has only been found in New Zealand and Australia. 3. Black Labyrinth Tour, Abyss Tour and Odyssey Tour In addition to the "black water rafting" in the Glowworm Cave, if you are brave enough and your endurance is good enough, you can also experience the Black Labyrinth Tour organized by the legendary black water rafting company , Journey to the Abyss and Journey to the Odyssey. These three journeys will take 3-5 hours respectively, and will involve rock climbing in caves, abseiling, and rafting on tires. Of course, if you participate in these tours, you can not only enjoy free hot showers, but also delicious hot soup and local New Zealand pancakes for you to enjoy. Plus, get a free visit to the Waitomo Caves Museum.Waitomo Caves · 959m from downtown
The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co, Waitomo
No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Waikato

The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co, Waitomo

5.9
4.8/5
13 reviews
The legendary black water rafting activity at Waitomo Caves is a unique and exciting adventure experience on New Zealand's North Island, attracting many adventure lovers with its mysterious underground landscape and unique activity format. Waitomo Caves is famous for its spectacular stalactites and glowworms, and black water rafting provides visitors with a new perspective to explore this natural wonder. Black water rafting is a comprehensive adventure activity that combines rafting, climbing and walking. Participants put on wetsuits, sit on rubber tires, and float along the underground river, enjoying the brilliant glow of the glowworms in the cave along the way. These glowworms form a starry sky on the top of the cave, adding a mysterious and romantic color to the entire adventure. During the activity, professional guides will lead the team through narrow passages and underground waterfalls to ensure the safety of each participant. The guides will also share interesting knowledge about the formation of the cave, geological features and glowworm ecology, making the whole journey not only exciting but also educational.Waitomo Caves · 1km from downtown
Ruakuri Cave
No. 11 of Best Things to Do in Waikato

Ruakuri Cave

4.6
4.0/5
12 reviews
Ruakuri Cave is Waitomo's legendary underground cave. According to Maori legend, the Ruakuli Caves were discovered 400-500 years ago by a young Maori who was hunting birds. Enter the cave along the magnificent spiral descent into the cave, and listen to the sound of the underground waterfall in the distance. Get up close and personal with ancient fireflies and learn about their fascinating lives. Visit breathtaking caves that took millions of years to form, shawl-like limestone formations with soft folds and unique crystal tapestries.Waitomo Caves · 1km from downtown
Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours
2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours

9
4.7/5
902 reviews
Join us and experience the real Middle-earth™ at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire™, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies.Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as you journey on a short bus ride through the unequivocal beauty of the land, with the mighty Kaimai Ranges towering in the distance. Your guide will escort you on a shared walking tour around the movie set, showcasing the intricate details, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how movie magic was made here. △ Immerse yourself in the fairy tale town of The Hobbit △ Ejoy the fenced garden and the mirror lake △ Admire New Zealand's stunning sceneryMatamata · 66km from Waitomo Caves
Sky Tower
2026 Global 100 - Night Attractions

Sky Tower

8.6
4.6/5
1k reviews
As a landmark of Auckland, the Sky Tower is 328 meters high and is connected with other buildings to form a huge sky city. The Sky Tower has three transparent elevators, with a speed of 18 kilometers per hour, It only takes 40 seconds to the observation deck, where you can overlook the entire Auckland city. You can watch a beautiful sunset and the night view of Auckland If you go there in the evening. Additionally, the Sky Tower is also a goodplace for a high-altitude walk, which is led and guided by a coach on the 192-meter-high outer ring platform of the Sky Tower. △ Climb the 328-meter-high Sky Tower △ Overlook the beautiful city night view △ Challenge more exciting projectsNew Zealand · Auckland
Waitomo Caves Museum and Discovery Centre

Waitomo Caves Museum and Discovery Centre

2.5
Waitomo Caves · 475m from downtown
Polynesian Spa
2026 Global 50 - Hot Springs Attractions

Polynesian Spa

7.9
4.5/5
180 reviews
Polynesian spa is located on the shores of lake Rotorua, offering a secluded paradise for relaxation. For generations, visitors from around the world have come to experience the natural geothermal hot springs. The thermal waters originate from two unique springs: the acidic priest spring and the alkaline mineral-rich rachel spring. The hot spring center features 28 mineral pools across four zones, each offering a unique experience. Guests can unwind at the deluxe lake spa, a tranquil oasis with captivating lake views ideal for adults and families. The historic adults-only pavilion pools provide serene soaking options at varying temperatures, while the family pools include a freshwater swimming area with water slides alongside two alkaline mineral hot spring pools for parents. Those seeking privacy can book a private lakeside pool overlooking Lake Rotorua or opt for the sky view private pool with its open-ceiling design, offering enhanced seclusion and peaceful ambiance. Beyond bathing, wellness experiences add endless joy to your journey. Retreat Day Spa offers therapeutic services like Aix spa treatments, geothermal mud wraps and revitalizing facials. Guests can also join yoga, meditation and sound healing sessions in the wellness room - a versatile space available for private bookings, group retreats and special events. After bathing, guests can enjoy fresh, healthy meals and delicious Italian gelato at 88Ra café. The Spa Essentials gift shop offers carefully curated premium spa products, high-quality swimwear, plush towels and wellness items, allowing guests to recreate the blissful experience at home. The Polynesian Spa is conveniently located in the heart of Rotorua with easy transportation access. It offers ample free parking, and the campervan parking area is just across the street. The Polynesian Spa boasts a rich geothermal heritage, diverse wellness services and breathtaking natural scenery, making it a global sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Learn more now and plan your itinerary.New Zealand · Rotorua
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest
No. 2 of Spring Outings in New Zealand

Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest

7.9
4.5/5
149 reviews
Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest is adjacent to the urban area of Rotorua and is one of the early forest areas in New Zealand for exotic tree species introduction trials. From the late 19th century to the early 20th century, over 170 tree species were experimentally planted here to determine which could adapt to New Zealand, particularly Rotorua's volcanic soil. Today, only a handful of these species remain, with the California coast redwoods planted in 1901 becoming the experiment's surprise success — they grow faster here than in their native California. Over a century later, they now tower skyward, forming a magnificent forest. The redwood memorial grove is the essence of the entire forest: the trail is covered with soft redwood bark chips, making each step springy; giant trees stand closely on both sides, their tops barely visible even when looking up. Among them, one particularly massive tree stands approx. 70 m tall with a trunk diameter exceeding 1.5 m, requiring several people to encircle it with outstretched arms. Native New Zealand ferns thrive beneath the trees, creating a striking scene where towering redwoods and sprawling fern fronds share the frame—a highly recognizable sight in Rotorua. The memorial grove loop takes less than 1 hr to complete, with boardwalks on some sections, making it suitable for all ages. Those with good stamina can extend their hike to the outer forest trails. This forest is also a popular destination for walking, running, and mountain cycling, with its crisscrossing trails clearly graded by difficulty. It holds considerable fame in the cycling community, attracting many who come specifically to ride the trails. Just a few minutes' drive from the city, the slanting morning or evening light filtering through the trees creates beautiful shadows and fern patterns, making these the most comfortable times for a stroll.New Zealand · Rotorua
Agrodome
No. 9 of Best Things to Do in North Island

Agrodome

7.7
4.7/5
392 reviews
The Agrodome Farm in Rotorua, North Island, is New Zealand's largest, state-of-the-art tourist farm with an area of about 150 hectares. Here you can meet red deer, turkeys, ostriches, alpacas, cows, lambs and many other animals you have never seen before. The farm has performances such as shearing and milking every day, which are very exciting and fun. The iconic sheep shearing bronze statue and the ancient carriage frame are displayed at the entrance of the farm. The Agrodun Farm covers a large area. To visit the pastoral area, you need to take a sightseeing tractor and set off on the tractor. You will see groups of people along the way. Cows and sheep grazing leisurely by the roadside. The tractor will stop in an open meadow, and nearby sheep will come running to surround you. In the alpaca area, the tall alpaca has a very docile temperament, and you can interact and take photos with them. In addition to getting up close and personal with various animals, you can visit the farm orchard, see the kiwi fruit trees, and taste the unique taste of kiwi honey. After the farm tour, go to watch the farm show. There are demonstrations of sheep shearing, sheep auctions, shepherd dog performances, etc. The host will also invite tourists to come on stage to milk the cows and compete for feeding lambs and drinking goat milk, which is very interesting. Visitors to the farm show can also visit the animal pup nursery. Before leaving, check out the WoollenMill, ShearingShedMuseum and DogandWhistle souvenir shops.Rotorua · 96.3km from Waitomo Caves
Skyline Rotorua
No. 8 of Night Attractions in New Zealand

Skyline Rotorua

7.6
4.8/5
178 reviews
Skyline Rotorua is a comprehensive mountaintop leisure park on the slopes of Mt Ngongotaha. Its eight-seater cable car cabins ascend slowly along a nearly 1 km-long cableway, transporting visitors to the mountainside at approximately 487 m above sea level. As the elevation increases, views of Rotorua city, the azure Lake Rotorua, and distant geothermal steam gradually unfold below. On clear days, the silhouettes of volcanoes across the lake are also visible. The signature attraction at the mountaintop is the luge: five uniquely styled tracks totaling over 7 km in length. The cart design blends elements of go-karts and sleds, relying solely on gravity for propulsion—pulling back the handle slows you down while releasing it speeds you up, putting you in full control of your pace. For a leisurely view, you can choose the scenic Tiki Tour route, which winds through redwood forests and features multiple viewing curves along the way, passing by a row of dinosaur sculptures near the finish line. If speed is your priority, challenge yourself with the Legend Track, Tornado Track, or Speed Track, featuring continuous spiral turns and illuminated tunnels. After reaching the base, take the chairlift back to the starting point for another round—young children can also ride along with adults in the same cart. If you're brave enough, add the skyswing to your itinerary: three people seated side by side are lifted approx. 50 m above the mountaintop by a crane arm, with the drop timing controlled by pulling a release lever. The swing reaches speeds nearing 150 km/h as you soar beyond the cliff edge, culminating in a final spin. The mountain also features a high-altitude zipline overlooking the lake, a mountain bike park, and nature trails, offering activities for all preferences. After having fun, you can enjoy a buffet at the Stratosfare restaurant on the mountaintop while admiring the lake and mountain views through the floor-to-ceiling windows. For a quick break, the Market Kitchen Café offers coffee and baked goods, and the Volcano Winery's tasting room is also worth a visit. It's windy at the summit, so remember to bring a jacket.Rotorua · 98.2km from Waitomo Caves

Experiences you can't miss in Waitomo Caves

Featured Day tours in Waitomo Caves

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New Zealand Waitomo Glowworm Caves + Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ 1-day tour pure play 16-person group
󱌍
5.0/5
· 1 review· 21 booked
Duration: 11.5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
FromMYR 976.04
New Zealand Waitomo Glowworm Caves + Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours luxury bus
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5.0/5
· 3 reviews
Duration: 9.2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
FromMYR 1,067.05
From Auckland or Rotorua: Hobbiton™ movie set tours and Waitomo (including lunch)
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5% off
Limited-time sale
FromMYR 1,122.22MYR 1,181.29
New Zealand Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours + glowworm caves 1-day tour [small group/shared transfer/private charter/includes admission ticket]
Trip.Select
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FromMYR 7,802.03
Auckland: Private Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours and Waitomo Caves
󱌍
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromMYR 2,054.20MYR 2,162.32

Featured Water activities in Waitomo Caves

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Speedboating at Huka Falls in Taupo
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Duration: 30 mins
English
FromMYR 414.49
Lake Karapiro: Evening Kayak Glowworm Tour
󱌍
4.9/5
· 14 reviews
Duration: 3.5 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromMYR 387.04MYR 407.42
Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour
󱌍
4.8/5
· 56 reviews
Duration: 4 hrs
Free cancellation
24 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromMYR 313.53MYR 330.04
Taupō: Huka Falls 30-Minute Jet Boat Experience
󱌍
5.0/5
· 12 reviews
Duration: 30 mins
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromMYR 387.04MYR 407.42
Waikato River Float Tour – Taupo
󱌍
5.0/5
· 5 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromMYR 194.60MYR 204.85

Featured Outdoor experiences in Waitomo Caves

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From Auckland: Spellbound, Waitomo Glowworm Cave Small Group Tour
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4.9/5
· 15 reviews
Duration: 8–9 hrs
Free cancellation
FromMYR 760.89
Waitomo glowworm/blackwater adventure/lost world in New Zealand
󱌍
FromMYR 173.11
Waitomo Caves: Ruakuri Glowworm Cave Guided Walking Tour
󱌍
4.7/5
· 310 reviews· 21 booked
Duration: 1.5 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
50 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromMYR 263.62MYR 277.5
Hobbiton and Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour with Lunch from Auckland
󱌍
4.9/5
· 360 reviews· 32 booked
Duration: 12 hrs
Free cancellation
100 consecutive positive reviews
FromMYR 887.14
Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Guided Tour from Auckland with Lunch
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4.7/5
· 203 reviews· 23 booked
Duration: 12 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
94.1% of travelers recommend
FromMYR 1,097.77
Waitomo Caves, Rotorua and Te Puia Small Group Tour from Auckland
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4.7/5
· 241 reviews· 23 booked
Duration: 13 hrs
Free cancellation
46 consecutive positive reviews
FromMYR 957.35
Small-Group Hobbiton and Waitomo Day Tour with Lunch from Auckland
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5.0/5
· 113 reviews
Duration: 12 hrs
Free cancellation
100 consecutive positive reviews
FromMYR 1,228.88

Free things to do in Waitomo Caves

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What travellers say about Waitomo Caves

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_TI***9r7 October 2026
5.0
The guide was so fun and knowledgeable, and everything went smoothly. It was all so beautiful and immersive — I felt completely drawn into the experience. The only downside was that there were no photos, but honestly, that was also one of the best parts! I was able to be fully present and really enjoy it.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

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最甜的好爸爸1118 August 2026
5.0
This expedition exceeded our expectations, and my son and I had a great time. Those 12 years and older can participate in the 3-hour expedition. Those 16 years and older can participate in the 5-hour advanced version. 1) Upon registration, you will need to fill out and sign some information, including whether you have any underlying medical conditions. 2) Then the instructors will gather everyone and remind you of the precautions. Our group had 11 people. 3) The instructors will lead everyone to put on the caving wetsuits, diving socks, and rain boots. Remember to bring your own swimsuit and wear it underneath. The site will also provide a fleece top (available in small and large sizes). Pay attention to the front and back of the clothing; the instructors repeatedly emphasized "inside out." It's normal for the clothing to be a bit tight. Remember to bring a towel; you can rent one if you forget. There were three instructors in our group, who repeatedly emphasized not to urinate inside the wetsuit and to use the toilet before caving. Swimming is not required. There are two waterfalls; you need to face away from the water, bend your knees, and place the lifebuoy under your buttocks. Hold the lifebuoy tightly with both hands and jump backward. The instructors will guide you throughout and will ask if you cannot jump and will explain other ways to get down. The instructor was very patient. I'm relatively short, less than 1.6 meters, but I was fine inside. The water was up to my armpits at its deepest point. Note that the underwater rocks made it uneven, with each step revealing a different depth. I'm not very athletic, and the instructor noticed this, so in some places she would have me hold onto her shoulders to help me walk slowly. Also, there was a larger person in our group who was quite afraid of diving, and the instructor took extra care of him. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking. When we turned off our headlamps, lined up, and sat in life rings, with the person in front holding onto the legs of the person behind, we looked up and saw a vast expanse of starlight and twinkling fireflies, marveling at the beauty. We went on August 17th, and the temperature inside the cave was around 15 degrees Celsius year-round, warmer than I expected. Afterwards, there were hot showers and tomato soup – so wonderful! This was the best experience of our trip to the North Island; my son was incredibly happy. This mother bravely accompanied him. The photos cost 26 NZD, definitely worth keeping.

The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co, Waitomo

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出去玩耍2 April 2025
5.0
I clearly booked the cave next door with the spiral staircase, but the following problem occurred. When checking out, I didn't enter according to the scheduled time and was postponed. I actually followed a Chinese group to this cave that an internet celebrity didn't book a month in advance. I thought it was okay, it was the same idea, I didn't bother to argue

Ruakuri Cave

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_FB***1715 October 2026
4.0
Hobbiton was an amazing experience with beautiful scenery, charming surroundings and incredible attention to detail. The entire place was well maintained, and walking through the village felt like stepping into a magical world. The lush green hills, iconic hobbit holes and picturesque landscapes made the visit truly memorable.What I appreciated most was how accommodating and considerate the staff were towards my friend with OKU (disability) needs. Their willingness to assist and ensure my friend could enjoy the experience made a real difference. It was wonderful to see a popular tourist attraction making an effort to be inclusive and welcoming to visitors with different needs.The surroundings were absolutely stunning, and there were plenty of opportunities to take beautiful photos and appreciate the unique atmosphere of the village. Every corner had something interesting to discover, and the scenery made the entire visit enjoyable .

Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours

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我不是安卓26 September 2026
5.0
the Sky Tower is absolutely a must-visit spot in Auckland! 🤩 The 360-degree view of the entire city, sea, islands, mountains, and office towers is breathtaking! 🏙️🌅 Especially during sunset, it's an incredibly beautiful experience! ✨

Sky Tower

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JamesCCW5 September 2026
4.0
There is an indoor private spa pool, indoor common spa pool and outdoor common spa pool. Ticket are only limited to your selection. you are not allow to explore all. My 45 minutes spa pool experience in mine own room... relax...

Polynesian Spa

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宋有熊19 June 2026
5.0
I highly recommend the nighttime treetop walkway in the Rotorua Redwood Forest! When traveling with seniors and children, safety and a great experience are paramount. The park's nighttime lighting and safety measures are exceptional; the suspension bridge has robust safety barriers on both sides, ensuring you won't slip. The combination of modern light art and the ancient redwood forest is simply stunning, both mysterious and dreamlike. My 5-year-old felt like he was on an adventure, and the seniors found the pace slow and comfortable, not tiring at all. It's not just a visual feast, but also a rare opportunity for family relaxation. If you're bringing elders and children to Rotorua, don't miss this nighttime activity—it's absolutely worth the price!

Redwoods – Whakarewarewa Forest

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jiaye_fan11 October 2026
5.0
It was so much fun! The animals were all so cute and so therapeutic ❤️‍🩹 The sheep were all so greedy, plump and chubby, arching their backsides and squeezing hard; their wool was quite stiff. The alpacas, on the other hand, were very calm and let me pet them and take pictures of them. I love animals so much 😭

Agrodome

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雨下山倾24 August 2026
5.0
This place is so much fun! Buying three scooter tickets wasn't enough; there are five tracks in total, so definitely buy a five-trip ticket! There's also a mountain bike park. I didn't bring my bike with me to New Zealand this time, otherwise I would have loved to go for a spin.

Skyline Rotorua

Popular cities near Waitomo Caves

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Waitomo Caves?

Don't miss these attractions in Waitomo Caves: Waitomo Glowworm Caves, The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co, Waitomo, and Ruakuri Cave. If you like Day tours, try New Zealand Waitomo Glowworm Caves + Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ 1-day tour pure play 16-person group. If you enjoy Cultural experiences, try New Zealand Waitomo Glowworm Caves + Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours luxury bus.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include New Zealand Waitomo Glowworm Caves + Te Puia - Rotorua, NZ 1-day tour pure play 16-person group, New Zealand Waitomo Glowworm Caves + Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours luxury bus, and Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours + Waitomo Glowworm Caves 1-day tour | Pure play 16-person group + lunch + admission ticket. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of 15 October 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Waitomo Caves is around MYR 907.79 – MYR 7,802.03. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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