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Waitomo Caves map: A guide to entrances, routes, & visitor tips

Waitomo Caves takes you deep into New Zealand’s underground world of glowworms, dramatic limestone formations, and centuries-old caverns. From the shimmering glow of the Waitomo Glowworm Cave to the vast chambers of Ruakuri Cave and the hidden beauty of Aranui Cave, every cave offers something unforgettable. This map guide helps you navigate entrances, walking routes, and nearby attractions so you can plan your visit with ease and experience the best of Waitomo Caves.

A guide to Waitomo Caves’ entrances & access points

Waitomo Glowworm Caves entrance with sunlight filtering through, surrounded by lush greenery.

Waitomo Glowworm Cave

  • Location: 39 Waitomo Village Road, opposite the Visitor Centre
  • Landmark: Easily spotted by the main entrance building across from the Visitor Centre.
  • Accessibility: Entry via stairs and narrow walkways; not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
  • Highlight: The underground boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto.
Boardwalk through lush greenery at Ruakuri Bush, Waitomo, New Zealand.

Ruakuri Cave

  • Location: 204 Tumutumu Road, Waitomo Caves 3977 New Zealand, approximately 20 minutes from the Waitomo Visitor Centre.
  • Landmark: Dedicated entrance building with on-site car park.
  • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair-accessible via a gently sloping spiral ramp.
  • Highlight: Spiral ramp, limestone formations, Māori legends.
Visitors exploring lush entrance of Aranui Cave, New Zealand.

Aranui Cave

  • Location: 39 Waitomo Village Road, a 10-minute drive past Waitomo Visitor Center.
  • Landmark: Accessed via the reserve entrance and a forest track.
  • Accessibility: 15-minute bush walk to the cave; not wheelchair accessible.
  • Highlight: Stalactites, stalagmites, high chambers, native bush setting.

Ruakuri & Aranui Caves: Route from Waitomo Glowworm Cave

Person walking through illuminated Ruakuri Cave tunnel, New Zealand.

Ruakuri Cave

  • Distance from Waitomo Glowworm Cave: 3 km
  • Travel time by car: 5 minutes
  • Walking difficulty: Smooth paths make it suitable for most visitors.
  • Parking: Dedicated car park next to the cave entrance.
  • Tour meeting point: Directly at Ruakuri Cave entrance.
Family exploring Aranui Cave on guided tour, admiring rock formations.

Aranui Cave

  • Distance from Waitomo Glowworm Cave: 3 km
  • Travel time by car: 5–7 minutes (to Ruakuri Scenic Reserve car park)
  • Walking difficulty: A 15-minute bush track with uneven surfaces, roots, and occasional mud, suitable for most visitors with reasonable mobility.
  • Parking: Ruakuri Scenic Reserve car park (limited spaces).
  • Tour meeting point: At Ruakuri Scenic Reserve entrance.

Things to see near Waitomo Caves

Visitor ascending stairs at Mangapohue Natural Bridge, Waitomo, New Zealand.

Mangapohue Natural Bridge

A 17-meter-high limestone arch formed by the Mangapohue Stream over centuries. Scenic walking track includes viewing platforms, suitable for all visitors.

Marokopa Falls cascading amidst lush greenery in Waitomo, New Zealand.
Aerial view of Waikawau Beach with lush greenery and clear blue waters, Waitomo, New Zealand.
Altura Gardens in Waitomo featuring a pond surrounded by lush greenery and rustic stone steps.
North Island Brown Kiwi foraging at Te Puia during Te Rā Guided Experience.

Key tips for exploring Waitomo Caves

  • Start early for smaller crowds: Arrive at opening time to enjoy the caves before they get busy, especially for popular tours like the Waitomo Glowworm Cave.
  • Use the safari shuttle: Hop on the complimentary shuttle to cover more ground and enjoy narrated views through Africa and Elephantasia without getting tired.
  • Use local maps: Familiarize yourself with the cave entrances, parking, and walking tracks before arriving.
  • Pack light: Use a small backpack as caves have narrow paths and stairs.
  • Check for special tours: Some caves offer night tours or photography tours, book in advance if interested.
  • Bring a small light: Although tours are lit, a headlamp or small torch can help on dimmer bush tracks and for better photos on secondary trails.

Frequently asked questions about Waitomo Caves map

Where can I view or download a Waitomo Caves map?

You can view or download the Waitomo Caves park map directly from this page! We’ve included a clear, easy-to-read version so you can plan your route and make the most of your visit.

Which caves are shown on the map?

Waitomo Glowworm Cave, Ruakuri Cave, and Aranui Cave are all clearly marked, along with entrances.

Does the map indicate walking difficulty?

No. Ruakuri is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, while Aranui involves a moderate 15-minute bush walk.

Can I combine multiple cave tours in one day using the map?

Yes. The map shows distances between caves, making it easy to plan multiple tours without backtracking.

Are facilities like toilets and cafes indicated?

Yes, the map highlights amenities near the main cave entrances.

Are distances between caves shown?

Yes, distances in kilometers and approximate walking or driving times are provided for planning.

Read more

Visitors exploring Waitomo Glowworm Caves in Auckland, viewing stalactites and stalagmites.

Timings

Glowworms illuminating Waitomo Caves with a silhouetted person on a guided tour.

Plan Your Visit

Visitors crossing a suspension bridge in lush forest near natural bridge, Waitomo.

Getting There

Adventurers black water rafting in Waitomo cave with glowworms above.

Things To Do

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