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.
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
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Light refreshments
Driver/guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
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.
635 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Chris G,
Oct 22, 2025
- Viator
There are several glow worm tours to choose from in the area and we are so glad we chose this one. Our guide, Stephen, was fantastic from the moment he picked us up from our holiday park. He was very interesting and informative throughout the tour and gave us plenty of time for photos and questions about the flora and fauna we were lucky enough to see. Stephen holds an exclusive license to guide people through this part of the native forest and this small group tour (8 people) meant we had the area to ourselves. Just to round off a fantastic evening we were treated to hot chocolate and cookies before being returned to our individual accommodation. We would 100% recommend this tour.
Marla M,
Oct 22, 2025
- Viator
Stephen was very knowledgeable of the area and entertaining. He showed us much more than glo-worms. He took some great photos and had them delivered to our email by the time we woke up in the morning. Served us hot chocolate and a cookie at the end of the tour.
Scott M,
Oct 15, 2025
- Viator
Great guide took us where none of the other tours go. Well-prepared, friendly, knowledgeable. Well worth the trip and cost.
Karyn S,
Oct 8, 2025
- Viator
Unique experience and very informative. Saw lots of creatures and the forest at night was absolutely beautiful. Was a great evening with the family.
Julie R,
Oct 6, 2025
- Viator
Stephen is one of the best guides we have come across in our travels. His vast knowledge of all things flora and fauna, especially glow worms was exceptional and all explained with care and humour making the night well worth it. Although the weather wasn’t the warmest, Stephen decked us all out in gum boots and torches, guiding us through a pristine native forest that takes on a life of its own after dark. Stephen, many thanks for the anecdotes and hot chocolate (shaken, not stirred) at the end of the night as well as the incredible photos you took of us to remember the experience.
Operated by Real Rotorua