Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour (One Way)
Auckland, NZ
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Stunning Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Rotorua City Highlights
- Wildlife viewing
- Passing through beautiful Waikato countryside
- Meeting friendly animals at Waitomo Big Bird & Miniature Animal Petting Farm
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Waitomo Glowworm Caves entry
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Small group tour experience
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Duration 7 hours
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Snacks and water provided
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Luggage allowance included
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey from Auckland to Rotorua on this small group tour that will leave you breathless. Begin your adventure in New Zealand's largest city, where our enthusiastic tour guides will lead you past its top highlights. As you venture south through the stunning Waikato countryside, you'll encounter majestic rivers, beautiful mountains, and even some farm animals along the way. Stop in the charming town of Pirongia for a quick coffee break before continuing to Otorohanga, known as the "Kiwiana capital of New Zealand." The highlight of the tour awaits at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you'll be amazed by the ancient formations and board a boat cruise through the grotto river, illuminated by thousands of glowworms sparkling above you. As you make your way to Rotorua, there will be a stop at the Big Bird & Miniature Animal Petting Farm, where you can meet the friendly animals. Your journey concludes as your guide drops you off at your accommodation in central Rotorua or a main location in the city. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience packed with breathtaking sights and surprises along the way.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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7 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore the stunning Waitomo Caves and Rotorua on a guided small group tour from Auckland, with snacks and breathtaking scenery along the way.
Included
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Small Group & Fully Guided Tour -
Entry ticket and fully guided tour - Waitomo Caves
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Water available & snacks provided
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Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
Excluded
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Food and drinks, unless specified -
Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking
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Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Auckland Central
Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out of the city, your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today, but also point out and guide you past some of the city’s top highlights.
Waikato Region
Exiting Auckland we drive south through the stunning Waikato countryside, the most extensive farming area in the world. Encounter stunning scenery, mighty rivers, great photo opportunities, beautiful mountains and several farm animals along the way. During this journey we pass through Taupiri which has many interesting sites of cultural significance including local Maori burial grounds & cultural totem poles.
Pirongia
After passing through rich countryside and learning about some local history and the New Zealand Land Wars we stop in this idyllic little town for a quick coffee break.
15 minutes
Otorohanga
Continuing our adventure we enter Otorohanga “The Kiwiana capital of New Zealand”. See all things Kiwi as you pass through this unique and charming town.
Arriving at Waitomo Glowworm Caves you will be guided through the ancient and amazing caves seeing many different cave formations including Stalactites, Stalagmites and Lime Columns before descending even further underground for your Glowworm experience. Board your glow-worm boat for a cruise on the grotto river with thousands of Glowworms sparkling above you. Unique to New Zealand for over 120 years, Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must-see for any traveller.
120 minutes
Admission Included
Once in Rotorua your guide will drop you at your accommodation in Rotorua (central hotels only) or at a main Rotorua central location, or choose to visit Te Puia before ending your tour !
5 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can provide your own or one can be provided for $20 NZD (with 24 hours notice). -
Due to the delicate ecosystem within the Waitomo Caves, photography is not permitted inside.
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Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
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Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, a moderate amount of walking is involved.
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Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Specialized infant seats are available
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Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What our experts say
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Try the local coffee at Pirongia. -
Book your child seat in advance.
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Dress warmly for cave temperatures.
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Don't miss the glowworm boat ride!
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Consider visiting Te Puia in Rotorua.
More About this Experience
Introduction
The Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour offers a unique and unforgettable journey through some of New Zealand's most breathtaking destinations. Led by passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, this fully guided one-way trip allows travelers to explore the stunning Waitomo Glowworm Caves and experience the highlights of Rotorua City. But it's not just the destinations that make this tour exceptional – it's the small group setting, the specially designed vehicles, and the attention to detail that truly sets it apart.What to expect?
When you book the Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour, you can expect an immersive and enriching experience. The tour begins with a visit to the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you'll witness the mesmerizing glow of thousands of tiny glowworms illuminating the underground caverns. As you continue your journey to Rotorua, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city's highlights and soak in its unique geothermal wonders. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings and enjoy the comfort and safety of the modern minibuses.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for travelers who seek adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple, or a group of friends, this small group tour provides an inclusive and welcoming experience for all. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the opportunities for wildlife viewing throughout the journey, while history buffs and nature lovers will appreciate the rich background knowledge shared by the passionate tour guides. No matter your age or interests, this tour promises to be an unforgettable experience for everyone.Why book this?
There are several compelling reasons to book the Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour. Firstly, the tour is led by experienced and passionate guides who are known for their ability to bring the journey to life through captivating storytelling. Additionally, the tour is conducted in modern and comfortable minibuses, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the trip. What truly sets this tour apart, however, are the secret stops, wildlife viewings, and specially designed vehicles that add an extra layer of excitement and surprise to the journey. From complimentary refreshments to pleasant surprises along the way, this tour guarantees an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.Good to know
Before embarking on the Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour, there are a few important details to keep in mind. The tour includes entry tickets and a fully guided tour of the Waitomo Caves, as well as bottled water and a snack. However, food and drinks are not included, unless specified. Souvenir photos are available for purchase, and there are optional extras and activities that can be selected at the time of booking. The tour concludes in Rotorua, where your guide will drop you off at your accommodation or a central location. If you're looking to extend your adventure, you can continue with the tour to another Rotorua attraction at an additional cost.Reviews
Travelers who have experienced the Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour have praised its unique and unforgettable nature. They have highlighted the knowledgeable and passionate tour guides who enhanced their journey with fascinating stories and insights. The small group setting and specially designed vehicles have also been praised for creating a more intimate and comfortable experience. Many reviewers have expressed their excitement over the secret stops, wildlife viewings, and other surprises that made the tour truly memorable. Overall, customers have been highly satisfied with the Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour, describing it as a must-try experience for anyone visiting New Zealand.
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