Your Gateway to Adventure
Te Tiro Accommodation is your one-stop shop for crafting the perfect Waitomo adventure. Our curated guide will match you with unforgettable experiences, from exploring captivating caves to discovering hidden wonders.
Hobbiton Detour
Travelling from Auckland? Your Lord of the Rings-loving host Angus suggests adding a visit to Hobbiton. Step into the Shire, grab a hobbit-sized drink at The Green Dragon Inn, and explore the charming hobbit holes.
Waitomo's Subterranean Magic
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand, Waitomo offers a wonderland beneath the surface. Explore majestic caves adorned with glittering stalactites and stalagmites. Embark on a magical boat ride under a breathtaking canopy of twinkling glowworms. Whether you seek classic tours or exhilarating black water rafting, Waitomo has something for every adventurer.
Waitomo Ruakuri Cave Photo: Discover Waitomo
Relaxing Glowworm Cruise
Short on time? The classic Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour is perfect. This 45-minute guided boat ride lets you witness the mesmerizing glow of thousands of glowworms.
Unveiling Ruakuri's Wonders
A must-do for Angus is the Magical Ruakuri Cave Tour. Experience the awe-inspiring subterranean landscapes and get up close to the glowworms that call Ruakuri Cave home.
Plunge into adventure!
Plunge into adventure! Take on the Legendary Black Water Rafting Company's Black Labyrinth or Abyss tours for an adrenaline-pumping journey through Waitomo's hidden waterways.
Want a unique cave experience?
Explore Aranui's delicate formations and glowworms on an intimate guided tour.
Waitomo short walks:
Waitomo has many wonderful places to visit, including spectacular waterfalls, natural bridges, and rugged West Coast black sand beaches.
Check walkway status: before you go, check the Department of Conservation website to see if walkways are open or closed.
| DOC Guides & Walkway Status | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| Ruakuri Bush Walk | Map | Discover a forested gorge, natural sculpted cliffs and low limestone arches on this spectacular loop walk - plenty to keep kids interested. 1km - 45min |
| Mangapohoe Natural Bridge | Map | Walk through an impressive limestone gorge that passes underneath a 17 m high natural arch. 700 m return via same track. 20 min |
| Piri Piri Caves | Map | Piripiri Cave offers the chance to soak in the majesty of a cave in one of the few free caves open to the general public in the area. 300 m return return via same track. 5 min |
| Marakopa Falls | Map | Walk to the beautiful 35 m high Marokopa Falls. 600 m return via same track. 20 min |
Other local attractions
Museums - Waitomo Caves Museum, Google map > 12 mins drive
Westcoast Beach: Marokopa Beach Google Map < 44 min drive
View from Te Tiro Glowworm grotto Photo: Angus Stubbs
Discover a forested gorge, natural sculpted cliffs, low limestone arches on this loop walk. 15 mins Drive
Photo: www.waikatonz.com