In
The Area
There are so many things to do in Waitomo you will wonder how you will fit it all in!
Undulating green fields, tumbling waterfalls, spectacular rural vistas and, of course, its world renowned limestone formations and cave systems make Waitomo a destination like no other. 30 million years ago the entire Waitomo region lay far beneath the sea. Today, both above and below ground, it stands as a revealing testament to a landmark period in New Zealand’s and the world’s natural history.
Waitomo offers a multitude of recreational, sightseeing, and nature experiences. There is so much to see and do that it’s virtually impossible to take it all in over just one day. So take two or even a few days and discover Waitomo at your own pace.
Waitomo is home to many cave systems all offering something different with dramatic glowworm displays. The Waitomo Caves Isite is situated in the village and provides information on all the activities and attractions.
Activities include:
- Caving and cave tours
- Zip lining
- Rock Climbing
- Tubing
- Black water rafting
- Abseiling
The Waitomo Caves Museum Society
The village Museum has a comprehensives collection of items relating to the unique cultural, biological and geological history of the Waitomo Caves.
For at least 500 years Waitomo has been the home of Maori people descended from the Tainui Waka, which landed and is buried at Kawhia. The museum houses a small collection of everyday implements and taonga once belonging to these people. The photographic collection contains many images from the early days of Tourism in the three main tourist caves: Glowworm, Aranui and Ruakuri.
The large number of caves in the district has attracted scientific interest from the beginning of European visitation. There is an extensive collection of fossil bird, bat and insect skeletons uniquely preserved for thousands of years in the stable cave environment. The museum also holds many historic photographs of the farming sector, which has been a major contributor to the local economy along with Tourism.
Local Eateries
Options to cater all needs!
We are a stones throw from the Tomo Bar and Eatery which is an authentic country pub offering local beer on tap, spirits, NZ wines and an off- licence, great food, wifi access, Sky Tv and pool table. The open fire provides a warming atmosphere in the cooler months.
We are 100 meters away from other village eateries.
The Huhu restaurant offers a range of A la Carte menus, which are innovative, healthy, and appeal to a wide range of tastes. The Huhu has a good wine list and can provide special group dining for larger groups.
The General Store provides generous breakfast, lunch and dinner options.
Glow Worm Caves
The Waitomo Glowworm Caves stand as the region's most captivating attraction, drawing visitors into a truly magical, otherworldly experience.
As you embark on a guided tour, you'll journey through a series of breathtaking limestone formations, their beauty amplified by the serene, twinkling light of thousands of glowworms. It’s a spectacle that transforms the caves into an enchanting underground wonder, leaving you in awe at every turn.
Mountain Biking Trails
Mountain Biking on Ngatapuwae Road, takes approximately 2 - 3 hours.
It consist of:
- 3k of tarseal
- 2k of gravel
- 5k of shingle track
Bikes not available for rent, so make sure bring your own bikes and gear.
The Waitomo Walkway
The 3.3-kilometre Waitomo Walkway is relatively easy to navigate.
There are some small inclines to take into consideration, but for the most part, the trail ambles across the shaded forests and exposed farmlands to get up close to some of the area's finest natural wonders.
Mangapohue Natural Bridge
If you have a vehicle, visit more natural wonders in the Waitomo area.
Not only is the drive down Te Anga Road (State Highway 37) a stunning drive, but the loop walk to the Natural Bridge is unusual with many bridge crossings and deep gorges. A spectacular limestone gorge will lead walkers underneath a natural bridge, where you’ll come face-to-face with a stunning 17-metre-tall limestone arch that lines the Mangapohue Stream.
The track then continues through to some farmland where you can see some ancient fossils before the entire loop is complete. The loop takes about 20 minutes to complete. You can also visit this at night to see an amazing display of glowworms! (Take a torch).
Marokopa Falls
A few kilometres down the road from the Natural Bridge is the Marokopa Falls.
The 10-minute bushwalk from the Te Anga Roadside brings you to a viewing platform of what has been described as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in New Zealand. (Except for just after a lot of rainfall, then they are described as the fiercest waterfall in New Zealand).
Ruakuri Bushwalk
This is one of Waitomo's most popular walks and only takes around 45 minutes to complete, give yourself an hour for lots of photo opportunities!
Visit this loop walk at night to see a display of glowworms (take a torch). During the day forested gorges, naturally carved cliffs, and low limestone arches will emerge as the track contours a stream and meanders into the Ruakuri Bridge platform; enter the cavernous tunnel near the platform to catch a glimpse of the imposing stalagmites and stalactites, as well as the stunning waterways flowing down below.
