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 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.
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)
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
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
658 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Good equipment and...
tlasiter,,Jan 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Good equipment and knowledgeable guides. Tour ran on time until Jeoff decided to deviate from the schedule to see swinging bridge over Waitomo River.
Fantastic Tour with Alessandro
635rafaely,,Dec 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thanks to Alessandro for a truly fantastic and memorable day! The coach was impeccable, the music choice ideal, the tour narration enjoyable and informative, and the care for all of us first rate.
It was a really fun...
Brenda H,,Dec 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a really fun experience. Well organized and planned. My tour guide was Matt and he did a really good job!
Incredibly Amazing Tour & Guide
openheartlove1,,Dec 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tour guide Jeoff was fantastic! He made us all feel welcomed and comfortable, and I so appreciate how knowledgeable he was about everything in New Zealand. He even made sure we had time for a surprise additional detour which was incredibly amazing and so thoughtful of him! The drive itself was very pleasant, and so were the other travelers in our small group. Jeoff gave us a lot of great recommendations for everything we asked about, and even more we didn't think of. I'd definitely join Cheeky Kiwi Tours again the next time I'm here in NZ! Best for everyone!
Worthwhile Day Trip from Auckland
pattip464,,Dec 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wonderful tour. Our guide, Lucas, was terrific. He shared great info and sang for our group ! We had a nice amount if time in the caves.
Where Earth Glows and Breathes…
margaretcC5211VX,,Dec 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tour guide and driver were exceptionally accommodating and courteous, sharing insightful information throughout the journey. The bus ride was comfortable and enjoyable. We had a wonderful day exploring the glowworm larvae at Waitomo Caves and witnessing the geothermal wonders of Te Puia. We were especially grateful for the rare opportunity to see a few kiwis.
Waitomo and Rotorua Review!
861tatiannab,,Dec 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a tour guide named Tim who was friendly and helpful. Throughout the tour he gave many suggestions on activities for us to do in Auckland during the holiday season, which was a very big help. As we had extra time, we were able to venture to Sulfur Point, where he became an expert photographer for everyone on the tour! The tour size began with there being roughly 11 of us, but as some were dropped off at Rotorua it ended up with there being 6 of us. Some of the highlights included the boat ride in the caves with the glowworms and the geysers. There were also many opportunities for washroom and snack breaks. Definitely worth the price and would recommend to friends and family if you’re looking to see a lot of the north island and don’t have a ton of time!
Great day!
G3460PBjeremym,,Dec 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great day! Ari was a phenomenal guide to have for the day. The Waitomo Caves and Rotorua Thermal Park Tour were interesting and engaging. Overall, it was nice to not have to worry about the details and just enjoy the experiences.
Fun day at Waitomo and Rotorua
qiaoz672,,Dec 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a blast with Dave driving us to Rotorua and Waitomo! We went off the path for some very scenic spots which was a bonus. The tour was very efficient!
Was amazing with Cheeky Kiwi
L9764FQsanjayp,,Dec 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tour guide Ben was amazing he treated us like family. While we wre in the caves, he stopped and got us coffee for all of the party members, he was super sweet. He kept us interactive
From NZ$419.00
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Operated by Cheeky Kiwi Travel