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
663 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The best Glowworm experience
stevedS1981EV,,Dec 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I am so glad we did the Nocturnal Glowworm Forest Walk with Stephen in Rotorua. It’s a very small intimate tour of the Forest and we see lots of Glowworms up close and so many around us like thousand of shining stars at one particular area. After this experience, to me the Waitomo cave tour was a disappointment: too touristy and closely booked schedules that we usually wait for the group in front of us to move on before we can proceed. Yes there are lots glowworms inside the cave with the short boat tour but somehow it does not feel magical or natural as the Nocturnal with Stephen. Stephen is warm and knowledgeable and most likely you’ll get pick up by him for the tour (a nice bonus touch beside hot chocolate and cookie after the tour). Thank you Stephen for a memorable night and Rosa for your personable and prompt response with any questions I have.
A Magical Night Walk with Glow Worms
Yuko M,,Dec 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00I joined the glow worm tour with Stephen as our guide, and it was a wonderful experience. He used LED and infrared flashlights to safely guide us through the forest, pointing out interesting plants along the way and showing us the glow worms up close. He also took the time to help each of us get memorable photos. Stephen was fun, caring, and made sure everyone felt comfortable throughout the tour. Even though it was raining, I still had an amazing night. I highly recommend this tour!
Simply the best
Bela P,,Dec 23, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00For an awesome glow worm experience, look no further! Stephen is an expert on all things glow worm-y and has the most flashlights I have ever seen! They came in handy in the almost absolute darkness of the forest. Stephen's banter is quick and witty and you will have a fun time on this hike! Note - some areas are slippery and wet, so good traction and waterproof shoes are a plus.
Galaxy of Glowworms
Heinrich C,,Dec 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Speechless, Priceless and Beautiful. Nature will never fail you. Loved it and the best tourguide. Worth it.
Fireflies!
Martina B,,Dec 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Interesting tour, we got a flashlight with white and one with red light, Stepen was a great guide, very well informed and dedicated. It was great fun!
Great way to see glow worms w/o needing to get in a boat.
edwardtlin,,Dec 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00An excellent way to see glow worms in their natural habitat. This was a really well thought-out nighttime walking tour through a forrest that is home to these fascinating critters. Our guide, Steve, supplied us with flashlights and boots and expertly lead us to strategically chosen spots where we could view the glow worms up close and en masse. Steve is a wealth of knowledge and I highly recommend his tour.
Interesting and informative walk through a wonderful forest at night to see an interesting creature!!
Scott B,,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Stephen’s tour out the glow worms was informative and well worth it if you have a spare night free. His knowledge of the forest and the works themselves was excellent and he even made time to take staged photos in spots that he thought would make a great picture. He then gave you access to those photos.
Amazing Experience
Tara M,,Dec 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Steve made our Glow Worm Adventure a truly magical and memorable highlight of our trip to New Zealand! Right from the start, in his van when he picked us up, he was engaging and entertaining with stories, information and personal insights. He equipped us with powerful flashlights and led us into the deep forest on well maintained trails. He was always mindful of pointing out roots and branches so the walk was quite comfortable. But the star of the adventure is the sighting of the Glow Worms! We lucked out and saw many in the pitch black forest - just amazing! Again, Steve was full of educational information and personal anecdotes as he had us stop at specific spots, turn off our lights and marvel at the natural beauty. We can't say enough positive things about this entire experience and highly recommend it for anyone who loves nature and wants to experience the Glow Worms up close & personal!
Outstanding tour with a great guide
Compass64393563709,,Dec 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour was excellent. Stephen is a great tour guide who loves sharing his knowledge about the forest, the glow worms, other animals and plants. You can also see how much he enjoys his job. The photos he takes of you are also of outstanding quality. I highly recommend this tour and give it five stars.
MAGICAL, off the beaten path!
ViaTour123,,Dec 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00An unforgettable night tour through a forest of indigenous vegetation, where Stephen helped us to discover native trees and encounter fascinating wildlife. The experience culminated in pure wonder as we marvel at a constellation of glowworms! MAGICAL! Tip: wear comfortable shoes for walking in the woods.
From NZ$125.00
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