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Waitomo Caves & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland

Offered by Cheeky Kiwi Travel

From

$399.00 per person

4.7 (570 reviews)

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13 hours (approx.)Pickup Available Mobile or paper ticket accepted Offered in: English

Tour Overview

Embark on an enriching journey from the bustling heart of Auckland, venturing into the serene landscapes of the Waikato countryside. As you leave the city, your guide will weave tales of Auckland's iconic landmarks, setting the stage for a day of exploration and discovery. Journey through verdant landscapes dotted with mighty rivers and rolling hills, leading you to the significant cultural sites in Taupiri, including local Maori burial grounds adorned with traditional totem poles.

The adventure continues as you enter Otorohanga, dubbed the Kiwiana capital of New Zealand. This charming town presents a quirky display of all things quintessentially Kiwi, providing a delightful glimpse into the nation's cultural symbols and heritage.

The highlight of the tour is the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you'll be mesmerized by the natural spectacle of thousands of glowworms illuminating the cave ceilings. Navigate the quiet waters of the grotto river by boat, enveloped in a magical ambiance that has captivated visitors for over a century.

Your cultural immersion deepens at Te Puia in Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland and repository of Maori culture. Here, you'll marvel at the explosive Pōhutu Geyser, explore traditional Māori architecture, and possibly spot a Kiwi bird in its natural habitat. The experience is enriched with stories and insights into the Maori way of life, shared by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about preserving and sharing their culture.

As the day winds down, your return to Auckland is peppered with secret stops, each carefully chosen to enhance your experience of New Zealand's stunning landscapes and rich history. This tour not only showcases spectacular natural wonders but also offers a profound connection to the cultural heritage of the North Island, creating memories that resonate long after the journey ends.

What's Included

  • Water available & snacks provided
  • Entry Tickets - Waitomo and Te Puia
  • Small Group & Fully Guided Tour

Not Included:

  • Lunch - opportunities to purchase along the way.
  • Gratuities
  • Souvenirs (available to purchase)

What To Expect

  1. 1

    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.

    Pass by without stopping

  2. 2

    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.

    Pass by without stopping

  3. 3

    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.

    Pass by without stopping

  4. 4

    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.

    Pass by without stopping

  5. 5

    Waitomo Glowworm Caves

    Arriving at our first feature attraction 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.

    2 hours

    Admission: Included

  6. 6

    Te Puia

    Arriving at our second feature destination, Te Puia, you will receive a fully guided tour to best experience the geothermal and cultural wonders including: Pōhutu Geyser, Māori Architecture, The National Māori Arts School, geothermal craters, geothermal events and even the chance to view a Kiwi bird in the Kiwi viewing house.

    2 hours

    Admission: Included

  7. 7

    Rotorua

    To finish off our Rotorua experience we do a guided driving tour seeing the most famous sites in Rotorua city including: Lake Rotorua, Rotorua Museum, Government Gardens, Whangapipiro (Rachel Spring) & the Blue Baths. If there is time, we may even visit a special souvenir shop for some discounted shopping and to try Manuka Honey.

    Pass by without stopping

  8. 8

    Auckland

    Sadly we must start to head north again but your day is not over with a fully guided return trip to Auckland with secret stops along the way.

    10 minutes

Meeting and Pickup

Important Information

Hotel Pick ups start 20 mins before the tour time. Please check your pick up time in tour information to ensure you do not miss your pickup. You will be picked up in a minibus with Cheeky Kiwi Travel sign-writing on it.

Additional Info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • 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.
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately and wear comfortable footwear.
  • Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. If you don't have one a car seat 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.
  • Due to uneven surfaces & stairs, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
  • Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties - A moderate amount of walking is involved.

Cancellation Policy

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