Waitomo Caves & Rotorua - Te Puia Small-Group Tour from Auckland
Overview
Available languages
13 hours
Mobile ticket
This isn’t your average day trip. From secret wildlife encounters to passionate storytelling, we’ll show you the North Island like only a Kiwi can.
At Cheeky Kiwi Travel, we don’t just take you to world-famous destinations, we make the journey as unforgettable as the places themselves. This small-group tour is crafted for travellers who want more than a bus ride, it’s a fully guided, immersive experience
This small-group, fully guided tour combines two of the North Island’s most iconic attractions: the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Rotorua’s geothermal and cultural treasures.
Highlights include:
Waitomo Glowworm Caves: Explore ancient limestone formations before gliding by boat through a glowworm-lit grotto.
Te Puia Geothermal Park: See Pōhutu Geyser, bubbling mud pools, and experience Māori culture at the National Arts School
Rotorua City Highlights: A guided drive past Lake Rotorua, Government Gardens, and the iconic Blue Baths.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately and wear comfortable footwear.
Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. If you don't have one a car seat one can be provided for $20 NZD (with 24 hours notice).
Due to the delicate ecosystem within the Waitomo Caves, photography is not permitted inside.
Due to uneven surfaces & stairs, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties - A moderate amount of walking is involved.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Water available & snacks provided
Entry Tickets & Guided Tour - Te Puia
Entry Tickets & Guided Tour - Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Small Group Fully Guided Bus Tour from Auckland & Return
Hotel pickup (listed locations only) & drop off
Lunch - not included, but there are plenty of opportunities to purchase food during your journey.
Gratuities
Souvenirs (available to purchase)
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
What To Expect
Auckland Central
Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out of the city, your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today, but also point out and guide you past some of the city’s top highlights.
Waikato Region
Exiting Auckland we drive south through the stunning Waikato countryside, the most extensive farming area in the world. Encounter stunning scenery, mighty rivers, great photo opportunities, beautiful mountains and several farm animals along the way. During this journey we pass through Taupiri which has many interesting sites of cultural significance including local Maori burial grounds & cultural totem poles.
Options
Waitomo and Rotorua Tour
Fully guided tour including entry tickets of Waitomo Glow-worm caves and Rotorua (Te Puia Geothermal Park and Maori Village.
Pickup included
Reviews
620 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great day trip before the travel home
Richard D,
Oct 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a perfect day trip out of Auckland. I only had one day where I wasn’t working and wanted to see some things I couldn’t see elsewhere. Between the caves and the geothermal fields, it was a good day. What took it over the top was the driver for the tour, Jeoff. His friendliness and knowledge of the area as a fifth generation Kiwi was unmatched. Very friendly and also a good driver. Although there is a great deal of time in the bus for this tour, it went by quickly while we learned about the Maori culture and the country of New Zealand. I would recommend this trip to anyone with limited time and wanting to see some things outside of Auckland.
It is a great experience...
Vicky B,
Oct 22, 2025
- Viator
4.00It is a great experience overall the tour guide was absolutely amazing and made the trip even better.
Great tour
Sef F,
Oct 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00The tour was great, our driver did an amazing job. He was very attentive to our needs. And taught us all about new zealand thank you for all the hospitality your tour ❤️ group provides
Very good
Helena a,
Oct 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00Long, so exhausting. So many kms. Guidance, Ale, kept interesting trip, with the information that was passing us, from NZ and the area. Very interesting caves and Te Puia are also worth it. Excellent day
Our guides Arahia and...
Synni T,
Oct 15, 2025
- Viator
4.00Our guides Arahia and Jeoff are professional and provided a lot of information about Maori. Glowwarm cave and geothermal geyser were amazing but its smaller than I expected. Driving time was a bit long.
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Operated by Cheeky Kiwi Travel