The unique character of this region in New Zealand is reflected in its very name, as Waitomo is a combination of the Maori words “water” (wai) and “hole” (tomo). However, among the labyrinth of caves and underground rivers, there is one place that stands out, thanks to its extraordinary inhabitants.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves are the most popular among the many caves found in the Waitomo region, located on New Zealand’s North Island. To reach the network of underground chambers, one must travel about two and a half hours south of Auckland, but the experience inside the cave makes the journey worthwhile. Contrary to what one might expect, it’s not just the stunning rock formations that make this place special, but also the incredible creatures that add a touch of magic to it.
The discovery of New Zealand’s caves
The indigenous people of the North Island had long known about the caves beneath Waitomo’s green hills, but the first to actually explore these areas were local chief Tane Tinorau and English surveyor Fred Mace. In 1887, they built a raft out of flax stalks and discovered a stone chamber with a ceiling covered in the lights of thousands of glowworms.
Just two years later, the cave was opened to tourists, and Chief Tane and his wife Huti began guiding visitors through its interior. In 1906, the cave’s management was taken over by the government, but after more than 80 years, this natural wonder was returned to the descendants of the original owners. Interestingly, many of the current cave guides are direct descendants of Chief Tane Tinorau and his wife Huti.
The brightest of caves
New Zealand’s Waitomo region is home to hundreds of mysterious limestone caves formed tens of millions of years ago. Their formation was largely due to underground rivers that slowly eroded the soft rock, creating a network of chambers and corridors. Once used as shelters by the Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, today many of these caves are open to visitors, making them some of the most popular natural tourist attractions on the North Island.
Of course, there are quite a few caves in the Waitomo area worth visiting, but this particular cave complex truly stands out. This mysterious place will surprise you not only with its fascinating stalactites and rock formations but also with thousands of glowing points illuminating the ceiling. It’s a small taste of a world straight out of the movie “Avatar”.
Glowworms in the Waitomo Caves
Caves are usually associated with darkness. But not in this case, as the gloom in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves is dispelled by bluish lights resembling stars. The reality, however, is a bit less romantic, as the glow is produced by certain spider-like insects.
Arachnocampa luminosa, known locally as glowworms, are an endemic carnivorous species of insect found exclusively in this region of New Zealand. These glowworms typically live for around nine months, but they spend most of their lives as larvae. Their bodies are coated with a special sticky mucus that helps them catch prey. Since the larvae often feed on insects larger than themselves, they create sticky silk threads and catch their food in what resembles spider webs.
The larvae use another, more mesmerizing trick that delights visitors to the cave while aiding in their hunting. In a process called bioluminescence, they produce a pale blue light in their abdomens, which attracts flies and mosquitoes. Interestingly, the hungrier the larvae become, the brighter their glow, resulting in an extraordinary visual spectacle.
FUN FACT: Once the larvae metamorphose into adult flies, they only live for a few days and no longer emit the light that made them so captivating as larvae.
The Glowworm Cave Experience
A tour of Waitomo Glowworm Cave is typically divided into two parts. The upper level is a completely dry chamber where visitors can marvel at beautiful cave formations. The lower level is a network of stream passages. Here, you’ll not only see the cave’s highest chamber, known as the Cathedral, but also experience the cave’s main attraction. In silence, you can observe the glowing larvae hanging from the ceiling, their light beautifully reflected in the underground rivers below.
GOOD TO KNOW: To protect the delicate cave ecosystem, photography is strictly prohibited inside the cave. Be sure to preserve as many of these incredible images in your memory as possible.
The Waitomo Caves Complex
The Waitomo Caves network actually consists of three caves, and while Waitomo Glowworm Cave is the most famous, the other two also have their unique charm. The largest of all the caves in the Waitomo area is Ruakuri Cave, discovered between 400 and 500 years ago. It is the only cave equipped for wheelchair access. After traversing a spectacular spiral entrance, visitors reach stone chambers filled with impressive rock formations, the sounds of underground waterfalls, and the mesmerizing glow of the famous glowworms.
Although the final cave, Aranui Cave, lacks water and thus is not home to the glowing creatures, it still offers something that enchants its visitors. The large stalactites and stalagmites in soft shades of brown, pink, and white are sure to invite many photo stops. The delicate, glistening formations create decorations that contribute to the intimate and magical atmosphere of this cave.
For those who find it hard to choose just one cave to visit, the management of the complex offers special combo tickets, allowing visitors to explore two or three caves at a discounted price.
Cave Tours
Both combo tickets and individual tickets for the Waitomo caves can be reserved online, ensuring your entry at your preferred time. Cave tours are available year-round, and the long larval phase of the glowworms guarantees that you’ll always be able to witness their glowing spectacle. Each tour group is accompanied by a guide, and tours are scheduled throughout the day.
The most popular way to explore is the classic guided tour. At the main Waitomo Glowworm Cave, the usual walk takes on a unique twist compared to other caves. In the first part of the tour, a guide leads you through a maze of rock formations, sharing the history and legends of the caves. The second part is where the magic truly happens – visitors board small boats, and once the lights are turned off, your eyes will adjust to the darkness. Then, as you look up, you’ll be awe-struck by the breathtaking display of bioluminescence.
Underground Thrills
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Waitomo’s underground world offers more than just peaceful boat rides. Ruakuri Cave provides an opportunity for blackwater rafting, a more extreme way to explore the cave’s depths. This 3-hour adventure lets thrill-seekers float down an underground river, leap off small waterfalls, and enjoy the magical glow of the cave’s inhabitants. For an even more intense experience, try the Black Abyss tour, which not only includes rafting but also rock climbing and even an underground zip line, offering a heart-pounding exploration of Waitomo’s hidden wonders.
Practical information
- It is best to purchase tickets for the Waitomo Glowworm Caves in advance. This way, you can avoid standing in long lines and reduce the risk of tickets being sold out.
- Address: 39 Waitomo Village Road, Waitomo Caves 3977, New Zealand
- Buy tickets on GetYourGuide
