Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour
Overview
Available languages
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 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.
What‘s Included
Light refreshments
Driver/guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Options
Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour
Reviews
689 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Personal tour let by enthusiast.
Cakebreadt,Mar 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic personal tour let by Stephen. A real enthusiast. He is very knowledgeable and limits the numbers to 8. You really get to find out about glow worms but also the flora and fauna.
Five Star “Glowing” Review
lynnmE2358HT,Mar 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Have just come back from the Nocturnal Adventure Glow-worm Tour with Stephen. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience - we not only saw loads of glow-worms but Stephen told us many more interesting facts about the forest. We were in a group of 6 people which was much more preferable to some of the large tours we have done in the past. We would highly recommend this Tour!
Highly enjoyable and unique experience
ktrehub,Mar 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Highly unique experience that exceeded expectations. Learned a lot of fun science while enjoyed our host Stephen’s humor and expertise. Great experience all around!
Glow worms in nature- a must!
752jillw,Mar 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stephen did a great job showing us the temperate rainforest at night. We walked with two different flashlight lights for the best viewing of the plants and glow worms in their natural hobitat. We got some amazing photos and cocoa and cookies at the end from his wife.
Forest and Glow Worm Tour
L9644MBaidanm,Mar 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I wasn't sure what to expect on this tour, but it was remarkable. Stephen the guide is so knowledgeable about the area and the terrain and made everyone feel at ease. This tour isn't just about Glow Worms but the forest and what New Zealand was really like before humans. We saw Possums, Wallaby and multiple birds. The Glow Worms were spectacular, I have never seen anything like them. They are fascinating and are a must, we were lucky even to see them eat a Spider. The Silver Ferns were equally impressive, and Stephen knows the best spots for pictures which are very much appreciated. But for me the highlight was actually in the Sky, we were lucky enough to see the Southern Cross and The Milky Way. Stephen was very knowledgeable on this too, pointing out what each star was. It was spectacular. Coming from the UK, we don't get to see Stars too often so this was epic. I couldn't recommend this enough.
A Glowworm Galaxy
Morgan L,Mar 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I've done a few glowworms activities/tours and this is my favorite. Stephen was a a fantastic guide and it's clear that he loves this work. He has a wealth of knowledge, sharing lots of stories and infor throughout the tour and answering lots of questions. And bonus, he knows how to take the best photos to capture this magical experience.
#1 Nighttime Activity in Rotorua
Kristin S,Feb 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This is *the* experience to book in Rotorua, especially if you only have one night. It's also the best way to view glowworms (and I say that having done multiple glowworm caves before). Stephen is the ultimate guide; he's not only friendly and educational, but a skilled photographer who will give you fantastic shots of this memorable experience. We got right up close to the glowies, along with other plant and animal life. Next time I'm in NZ I'm booking this again!
A holiday highlight
V8594SImarym,Feb 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A fabulous evening in the forest at night, Stephen is a great guide and has so much interesting knowledge to share. Such a privilege to see glow worms in the wild and the silver fern. A bonus to see a wallaby on the way home. We were picked up from our accommodation and provided with torches. Stephen took great photos for us to remember our trip. A highlight of our NZ trip - good value too.
Glow worms
JoAnne T,Feb 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Stephan was very knowledgeable, conscientious of the environment, great photographer, and even had a lovely hot chocolate and cookies for us at the end of the tour. Highly recommend!
Glow Worms
JoAnne T,Feb 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stephan was an amazing tour guide! Knowledgeable, caring for the environment, prompt and on time.
From NZ$125.00
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