Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Tour

FromNZ$309
8 hours
Auckland Central, New Zealand

About this activity

Embark on a captivating journey from Auckland to Rotorua, featuring a guided tour of the Waitomo Caves and a mesmerizing glowworm grotto boat ride.

Highlights

  • Explore the mesmerizing Waitomo Caves
  • Experience the enchanting glowworm grotto
  • Enjoy a scenic drive through New Zealand's countryside
  • Discover Rotorua's geothermal wonders
  • Learn about Maori culture and history

Full description

Set off on an unforgettable adventure from Auckland to Rotorua, immersing yourself in New Zealand's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Begin with a guided exploration of the Waitomo Caves, marveling at the intricate limestone formations and the ethereal glowworm grotto. After the cave tour, enjoy a comfortable ride through picturesque landscapes to Rotorua, renowned for its geothermal activity and vibrant Maori culture. This day trip offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural insights, ensuring a memorable experience for all travelers.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided tour through Waitomo Caves
  • Glowworm grotto boat ride
  • Transportation from Auckland to Rotorua
  • Meals and beverages

Important information

Know before you book

  • This tour is conducted in English; ensure you are comfortable with the language.
  • The tour involves walking and some uneven terrain; consider your mobility when booking.
  • Check the weather forecast for the day of the tour to dress appropriately.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for cave exploration.
  • Bring a light jacket, as temperatures can be cooler inside the caves.
  • Carry a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and cave formations.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Stroller Accessible
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infant Seats Available

Good to know

  • Due to uneven surfaces, steps & a moderate amount of walking being involved, this tour is not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, or wheelchair users
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

Traveler reviews

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Vixann Awesomw

It was one of the my Best Experience. SPECIAL Thanks to Vinaxx Driver Cum Guide, really you make this so fantastic for all of us.

Connector01911213540Jul 26, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Best tour ever

Trent was an amazing, kind, lively guide and brought excellent information about New Zealand and the Maori people! The walk is well worth it! In a single day it was possible to see glowing warms, kiwi birds and geysers, as well as learn about the ancestral techniques of trimming in wood, bones and stones! Simply unforgettable! I recommend traveling with Trent and Cheeky Kiwi!

l0uisidJul 26, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Great Travel!!

We had an amazing experience with Cheeky Travel! Our guide, Grant, was incredibly friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable. We travelled to the Waitomo Caves, and he made the whole journey enjoyable by sharing lots of interesting information about New Zealand and the places we passed. He also provided us with water and snacks, which was a lovely touch and made the trip even more comfortable. The bus was very clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. Thank you, Grant, for making our trip so enjoyable. We would definitely recommend Cheeky Travel to anyone looking for a great travel experience in New Zealand!

theam416Jul 6, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Great one-way tour to Routoura from Auckland

Recommended tour. Pick-up at hotel at 5:40 am. Coach was comfortable with Wifi and usb charging ports available. Breakfast granola bars, cassava chips, and bottled water were complimentary. Our tour had 8 people, so the bus was not squeezy. Space in the trunk for our big luggages. Grant's driving was smooth and he was perfectly friendly. Stops for breakfast and coffee, glowworm cave, te puia, and lake Rotoura sulphur point. Not very tiring for a 12 hr+ tour, quite well-timed provided all passengers were on-time. Dropped off at Rotoura around 4 pm ish while others on the tour returned to Auckland ETA 6-7 pm.

LimingL_13Jun 29, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Relax with Cheeky Kiwi!

We had such a lovely time touring with Vicky from Auckland to Rotorua via the Waitomo Caves! She was very knowledgeable about the region with plenty of history and fun facts. The luxury van was very comfortable with WIFI on board (keeps teens happy)! The caves are definitely worth experiencing. The cave formations are mind boggling and the glow worms are fascinating to learn about and see. Look no further to book this portion of your trip!

D8421BOtammylJun 13, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

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. Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. 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.