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
681 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Excellent night time forest walk and glowworm experience.
Sightseer01893575526,,Feb 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent night time walk in the temperate rainforest. Not only did we get to see lots of glowworms, but we also got to see lots of flora and fauna, including the NZ national emblem of silver ferns, ancient trees, possums and wallabees. Stephen gave a tremendous insight into the volcanic history of the area and also the nature and wildlife. A night to remember.
excellent night walk in the rainforest
A4573VHdenisec,,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This night walk in the temperate rainforest with our guide Stephen was a highlight of our 3 week trip to NZ. We saw many glow worms and he was very knowledgeable about them. He also pointed out other interesting things in the forest, such as silver ferns and different fungi. He was very knowledgable and The pictures he took and then sent to us are fantastic. We were fortunate to have clear skies on our walk back to the van and saw many stars in the night sky and he pointed out constellations. He had boots for us to wear and gave us two different flashlights (one for walking and one for viewing in The darkness). The hot chocolate and cookies at the end were perfect! I would highly recommend this tour.
That was a great experience
Tourist773822,,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wow, what a great experience. If could give six stars I would. The guide was a great naturalist. Knew everything about local history, all the flora and fauna. It’s a night walk into a thick temperate rain forest using his custom flash lights in a small group. Got close and personal with the glow worms.
Excellent glow worm walk
James L,,Feb 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent. Lots of glowies. Stephen, the guide, was well prepared. He provided several bonuses! We walked a forest trail at night. It's easy but not like pavement. 5 star. Recommended.
A brilliant tour
shannanj2026,,Feb 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The best tour we booked in our New Zealand Holiday. Informative and engaging - easily achievable for most people /fitness levels. Thankyou Stephen!!!
Magical unforgettable experience
386verav,,Feb 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00There are no words to describe how moving this experience was for me. Not only was Stephen an incredibly knowledgeable guide who clearly loves what he does, but to be out in the forest at night & seeing both the worms galaxy & the real stars up in the sky was nothing short of magical. I'm a very seasoned traveler & ive never felt so positively impacted by a travel experience like this one. Thank you Stephen for creating this very special memory that I will always cherish!
Awesome!
L1949FJmartinp,,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We loved the tour! Steven was an outstanding guide! He is such a nice human being an his knowledge about Rotorua and it's nature/wildlife is unmatched. The tour is really interesting and he is an amazing photographer so you get some nice memories :)
Amazing Experience!
Y8900SLabbyd,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour is a MUST for anyone visiting Rotarua! The guide Stephen is extremely knowledgeable, and he pointed out so many interesting things during our walk. He also took amazing photos of everyone who went on the tour. The glow worms themselves are spectacular as well. This is overall an incredible experience for anyone looking to head off the beaten path while in Rotarua!
Magical evening
Julie K,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stephen is an excellent guide. His enthusiasm for the environment and these amazing little critters just shines out of him. He is knowledgeable, humourous and kind to this wobbly old woman. His photos were beautifully staged and created wonderful memories. I hope this spot stays wonderfully unspoiled. I can't recommend it enough
Excellent night experience
Jim B,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience! Good communication and pickup. Small group in the van to a great walk through the night. All equipment provided. Saw thousands of glow worms. Tour guide emailed personalized pictures the day after in email. Excellent tour😎
From NZ$125.00
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