Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour

Overview

Available languages

English

3 hours

Mobile ticket

Glow-worms are the highlight of any night-time stroll in New Zealand, and when found in abundance they can be as breathtaking as our clearest night sky. Join our experienced guides on a trip into the native bush to witness this phenomenon for yourself. Learn about the life-cycle of this fascinating insect, experience New Zealand’s wildlife by night and top off this stellar evening by relaxing under the stars.

An unique experience for all your senses.

Highlights

• Glow-worm, waterfalls, wildlife and star gazing.

• New Zealand Native Forest - all by the cover of darkness.

• Small group, relaxed atmosphere.

Additional Info

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A maximum of 8 people per booking

Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Minimum age is 6 years old

Supportive footwear such as trainers or hiking boots is recommended

This tour includes a 2 kilometer walk, a good level of fitness is require for all participants

Risk Disclosure: We operate a strict safety management system that is audited to New Zealand standards. It is important for you to be aware of the risk and hazards of this tour which are: Uneven grounds, tree roots, rocks and slippery surfaces that could result in slips, trips and falls causing injury / strains /sprains / or broken bones. Low light conditions, use torches / flashlights accordingly

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

Light refreshments

Driver/guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

What To Expect

Lake Rotorua

Our Nocturnal Glow-worm tour takes 2.5 to 3 hours and includes a 2 kilometer walk. We will depart from Rotorua in a minivan, small group (8 people). Depart times vary depending on season. Once there after a walk through the darkness of native bush you will be guided by the sound of running water. Soon towering banks will rise up around you. Then in this moment turn off your flashlight and you will not be disappointed. Literally thousands of glow worms lite up like night sky, forming their own constellations all around you. At any time of the year it is unlikely that the glow worms will be the only wildlife that you encounter. Wallabies and Possums patrol the area and their rustling, along with the eerie call of the morepork, will provide the sound effects for you night walk. Out of the forest the 'star' gazing is at is best on a clear dark night sky. Come along, soak up the atmosphere and learn about New Zealand's incredible night life.

•Admission Not Applicable

Options

Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour

Reviews

5.00

600 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

598

Amazing- do this tour!
Rebecca K,
Jun 21, 2025
- Viator
5.00
This was amazing! The glowworms were so beautiful, and none of the crowds like the Waitomo caves. We also saw beautiful stars and learned about native NZ plants and animals. Stephen was a fabulous guide and took care of every need, including hot chocolate and cookies! I learned a lot about the area during the drive. It was so nice that Stephen picked me up at my Airbnb!
One of a kind amazing adventure
John Y,
Jun 21, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Spectacular one of a kind tour! So many glow worms, lovely waterfall, and a n amazing guide who truly loves his work!
This trip is more like a...
Karin G,
Jun 19, 2025
- Viator
5.00
This trip is more like a personal guided tour rather than a routine tour at a big company. Stephen talked about the history of the area on the drive to the rainforest near Lake Okataina. He provided boots and flashlights for the hike because it had poured recently. All along the hike, he pointed out the different fauna. He took really cool pictures of us in the dark with the fern trees illuminated and another picture with a waterfall illuminated. The highlight of the night was when we got to another waterfall where we got to see the walls light up with glowworms. When we got back to the van, he had hot chocolate and cookies for us that his wife made. Very cool experience!
Don't go with a big tourist company for Glowworms. Go with Stephen!
Katrina V,
Jun 18, 2025
- Viator
5.00
We would give Stephen 10 stars! We were looking for an experience that was different from what the big tourist companies offer, and this is one I would recommend to anyone (maybe you're visiting for the first time or you have lived here your whole life). I think we spent the entire walk through the forest with our jaws on the floor, not only because of the impressive nature, but because of Stephen's knowledge. He knows about every tree, spider, insect, and fungi that lives along the path. He even took the time to take pictures of us in the complete darkness and got some of the coolest pictures we have seen. The focal point of the tour is a wall next to a waterfall that becomes an entire night sky full of glowworms. This quirky and fun tour is amazing, and Stephen ended the night with hot chocolate and biscuits made by his wife. This was an absolutely lovely experience.
Loved it!
Jacques V,
Jun 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Well worth it. A very informative and magical experience. Well prepared by providing all torches and boots required after wet weather the previous day.