Waitomo New Zealand is a unique destination, located in the North Island of New Zealand. The area boasts an unspoiled cave and karst landscape, covered with a vast expanse of farmland and forestry. The tranquil region is less than three hours drive South of Auckland, the country's largest city and two hours drive West of Rotorua, the cultural heartland of New Zealand.
Home to a small population of 300 people and a minute number of shops and facilities, Waitomo can easily be perceived as a sleepy village. However, in reality more than 500,000 tourists visit the area annually and tourism has rapidly replaced farming as the most significant economic activity. Increased visitation to the region is due to the presence of an incomparable world, which can only be encountered by venturing beneath the earth's surface.
Underneath Waitomo stretches 50kms of cave passage. These caves are part of a unique karst limestone landscape sculpted by water into blind valleys, sinkholes, springs, arches and fluted rock outcrops.
Farmland also forms a majestic part of the landscape, with an abundance of rich pastures and rolling green hills encompassing the region. A backdrop of bush clad forests, interesting rock formations and farmyard animals create a peaceful environment, which is intriguing to the eye and provides an insight into New Zealand's rich agricultural heritage.
Waitomo Activities and Attractions
Blackwater Cave Rafting and Abseiling Adventures
Blackwater Rafting is a unique cave tubing experience offering fun, mystery and adventure. Visitors venture underground with a professional guide and a rubber tube, to float through and navigate spectacular caves. Prepare to be awe-inspired by the spectacular natural occurring cave decorations and the magical light of the glowworms.
Waitomo Adventures Ltd has fantastic blackwater rafting, cave abseiling and tubing tours suitable for all ages and levels. Enjoy the excitement of waterfalls and hours of fun with professional guides and full training provided before you float, swim, abseil and walk through spectacular caves illuminated by the light of glow worms.
Waitomo Glowworm Cave
Enjoy a 45 minute tour of the spectacular Glowworm Cave. Walk through and marvel at the amazing cave decorations before venturing on a boat tour through the Glowworm Grotto, where you have the opportunity to view thousands of glowworms in close proximity. Knowledgeable guides give an informative commentary.
Afterwards, include a visit to the awe-inspiring Aranui Cave, which boasts spectacular speleothems or cave decorations.
Waitomo Caves Horse Treks
Experience the excitement and outdoor adventure of Waitomo Cave Horse Treks. View the beautiful Waitomo country side from horse back. Limestone formations, fossils, native bus, dogs, sheep, cattle are all part of this wonderful experience. Best of all are the awesome views! Whether you are a complete novice or a budding lone ranger, there are a variety of horses to cater to the needs of all. Equipment is provided with ride durations lasting from one or two hours to full day and up to three day treks.
Waitomo Museum of Caves
Waitomo's award winning Museum of Caves provides fascinating information on caves, the Waitomo Caves area and also includes exciting displays. A magnificent half multi media show runs regularly each day.
The Museum of Caves is also the official I-site Information Centre, where visitors can book for most local attractions such as, Waitomo Horse Treks, Waitomo Big Red 4x4 motorbikes, Waitomo Glowworm Cave, Aranui Cave, The Woodlyn Park Kiwi Culture show and Jetboat Rides, Altura Park, as well as transportation and accommodation in the local area and anywhere in New Zealand.
