Auckland · GLOWWORM TOURS
The larvae glow to catch insects, they only do it in the dark, and they are found nowhere outside this part of the world. These 15 trips run from cave boats to bush walks and night kayaks, priced and clear about how far you travel for them.
Paddle Auckland’s dark coastal waters as bioluminescent plankton sparkle below, with expert guides, kayaks, safety gear, and starry skies.
“The bioluminescent plankton were amazing to see glowing at night along with the bright stars. The guides Paul and Millie were amazing and very knowledgeable!”
Paddle Auckland’s night waters and watch bioluminescent plankton sparkle around your kayak on this beginner-friendly two-hour tour.
“Just being on the water was so peaceful. The water was warm, but I didn’t really get wet. It’s beautiful to see the water light up. We were also lucky enough to see glow worms too! This was definitely worth doing. I would do it again.”
Review of Auckland’s small-group Waitomo glowworm tour, with boat ride, twin caves, photography, guide tips, timing, price, and drawbacks.
“Great trip from Auckland to Waitomo with driver Paul to experience the glow worm cave by boat. So magical. Then we walked to explore another cave that featured stalactites and stalagmites. Our guide on the cave tour, Ross from Spellbound, was fantastic! Light snacks and bottled water were provided in the van. We also made a rest stop for no-host coffee and pastries (excellent options!) on the way out and lunch on your own in the way back. Bring money, wear closer-toe shoes, and perhaps a light jacket as the caves are cool. Fantastic tour. Definitely recommend!”
Review the Auckland Spellbound Glowworm Caves tour, with small-group transport, boat rides, cave history, practical tips, and honest value advice.
“Our driver Matt was top notched. He was friendly, a great driver and answered all of our questions as we drove the long distance to the caves. When we got near the caves, Ross took over. He is extremely knowledgeable about the caves and the area. It was an extremely interesting tour. My favorite part was the glowworms. It was magical watching them and listening to the rushing water.”
See New Zealand glowworms in Auckland Domain on a one-hour night walk through ancient volcanic terrain, native bush, and a hidden waterfall.
“This was a wonderful tour! It was only an hour long but it was in the heart of Auckland by their war memorial. Our guide was very informative! We walked through the woods and it was very dark! She had a head lamp and some people used their phones to light the way. When we got down to this little creek we climbed down under this bridge area and saw the glow worms! It was really cool! It didn’t take all day and we got to see them and learn about them! It was a nice experience!”
Review of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves day trip from Auckland, including the boat ride, scenic drive, guides, price, timing, and practical tips.
“Great introduction to Auckland Paolo and Nancy. I also enjoy the visit to the Glow Worm Caves itself! Quite a fair bit outside Auckland but the scenery is interesting and absorbing”
Explore Waitomo Glowworm Caves from Auckland with scenic Waikato views, a guided cave tour, boat ride, snacks, and CBD pickup.
“Hobbiton was beautiful and the guides were excellent. The only disappointing thing was that I thought we would be the first group into Hobbiton. I think we were the third, so still early, but it was still busy ahead and behind us. The drive was smooth and relaxing.”
Paddle Auckland waters after dark, watch bioluminescent plankton glow, and learn how this natural light show works on a two-hour guided kayak tour.
“We really enjoyed the activity. We can recommend it, thank you.”
Explore Waitomo’s glowworm boat ride and Ruakuri’s underground walk on an 11-hour small-group tour from Auckland.
“Our tour guide/driver was Lulu. She is energetic and her comments were very interesting. She is of Maori origin and decided to learn the language as an adult. Of course she had a lot to say about her culture, her country and, of course, Read more”
Paddle Auckland waters at night and watch bioluminescent plankton create blue sparks, with kayaks, safety gear, guides, and transport available.
“Great experience !!!! we love it. !!!!!! A good activity for family and friends. The staff is very attentive too . We recommend.”
See Auckland glowworms in Awaruku Reserve, learn their life cycle, and walk native bush with a small English-speaking group.
“Was really cool being able to see the glowworms up close. I learnt alot from our guide and had a great night!”
Tour Waitomo’s glowworm caves, Otorohanga’s kiwi house, and Zealong Tea Estate on a private day trip from Auckland.
“We had an amazing private tour from Auckland that included the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, the Kiwi Bird experience, and high tea at Zealong Tea Estate — and every part of it was incredible! Our driver and guide, Warren, truly made the daRead more”
Review of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Kiwi House tour from Auckland, with itinerary, price, guides, transport, value, and booking advice.
“Josef was an amazing tour guide and driver. He knew where the best restaurants and Ice Cream locations. Very knowledgeable of the people and land of New Zealand. I highly recommend Josef and his tours.”
Review of Auckland’s private Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour, with cave details, pricing, guides, timing, transport, value, and booking advice.
“Kris was very attentive and took good care of us. The caves were very interesting. Nice tour . The lunch was a buffet lunch and very tasty. Kris took us on a drive through the city too as we only had one day in port. Very nice trip”
See Auckland glowworms in a quiet bush reserve on a private evening tour with an easy walk, local guide, and no long drive.
“This was a great experience. It was smaller yesterday very impressive. It was like seeing them in the wild versus is a zoo in the more touristy spot Guide was very personable and dropped us off at hotel instead of origination point”
Pick a harbour, a crater, a cave or a cellar door.
