Our Itinerary

Waitomo’s stunning scenery extends beneath the surface to a great subterranean network of caves. More than 300 of them are scattered across this sleepy farming district, roughly the size of Rhode Island, carved out of limestone by underground streams over thousands of years. This characteristic lends the region its name, Waitomo, meaning “water passing through a hole” in Māori, the indigenous language. While the caves attract hundreds of visitors eager to explore, abseil, and raft among the caverns, their main allure lies with millions of tiny glowworms, twinkling like the night sky.

The Waitomo Glowworm Cave is accessible to those with reasonable mobility, with good handrails and paths. Please wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking. Some areas of the cave can be wet and slippery. The Waitomo Glowworm Cave does not have wheelchair access however, Ruakuri Cave is wheelchair friendly.

Waitomo Glowworm Caves – Discover the original rock stars of the underground scene. For more than a century, glowworm fans have flocked to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves to see
the dazzling light show. Daily 45-minute tours are available but be sure to book in advance.

Ruakuri Cave – A marvel of modern engineering, featuring a long spiral ramp reminiscent of New York’s Guggenheim Museum. Designed for wheelchair and pushchair accessibility, it allows for a gentle descent to the cave floor. From there, you’ll navigate a maze of naturally worn tunnels leading to caverns packed with enormous stalactites and enchanting tiny blue lights.

Aranui Cave – Stands out for its intricate and beautiful limestone formations, remnants of the prehistoric waters that once flowed through these caves.
While there are no glowworms here, Aranui Cave boasts the region’s most intricate cave system and impressive stalactites and stalagmites, including
some with a pink hue.

Operating Hours:

• Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry times may vary).

Check-In Requirements:

• Pre-booking is mandatory – tickets often sell out.
• Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled tour for check-in.
• Late arrivals: Missed departures forfeit tickets; rebooking is subject to availability (additional fees apply).

Tour Duration:

• Allow 45 minutes for the Waitomo Glowworm Cave tour.

What to Wear/Bring:

• Sturdy, non-slip shoes (paths can be wet and slippery).
• Warm jacket (cave temperature: ~14°C/57°F year-round).

About the Waitomo Caves
A Subterranean Wonderland Waitomo (“wai = water, tomo = hole” in Māori) is a labyrinth of 300+ limestone caves, carved by ancient rivers. Its
star attraction? Millions of glowworms (Arachnocampa luminosa) illuminating caverns like a starry night sky.

• Iconic 45-minute tour: Drift silently by boat under a galaxy of glowworms.
• History: First opened to visitors in 1889.
• Suitable for visitors with reasonable mobility (handrails and paved paths).
• Not wheelchair accessible (steps and narrow passages).

Experience two of New Zealand’s most iconic attractions—Hobbiton Movie Set and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves—on this small-group, fully guided day
trip from Auckland. Travel in comfort with our passionate guides, who bring the journey to life with stories and local insights, and enjoy a relaxed pace
with time to soak in the magic.

• Hobbiton Movie Set & Alexander Family Sheep Farm
• Waitomo Glowworm Caves (boat cruise included)
• Scenic Waikato countryside & secret animal encounters
• Complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn

Itinerary Snapshot:

1. Auckland → Waikato: Scenic drive through NZ’s richest farmland.
2. Hobbiton: 2.5-hour guided tour of the 12-acre movie set (alternate routes may apply due to 2025 maintenance).
3. Lake Karapiro: Photo stop at this stunning hydro dam site.
4. Otorohanga: Pass through the quirky “Kiwiana Capital.”
5. Waitomo Caves: Explore ancient formations & glide under glowworms.
6. Return to Auckland: More surprises en route!

Inclusions:

• Small group (personalized experience)
• All entry tickets
• Snacks & water onboard
• Expert guide + secret stops

Note: Lunch not included, but food stops available.

Discover two of New Zealand’s most iconic attractions—the magical Hobbiton Movie Set and the surreal Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park—on this small-group, fully guided day trip from Auckland. With expert guides and a relaxed pace, you’ll enjoy an immersive experience at both sites, plus scenic surprises along the way.

Highlights:

• Hobbiton Movie Set – Explore the Shire’s 44 hobbit holes & enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn
• Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland – Witness the Champagne Pool, Devil’s Bath & erupting geysers
• Rotorua City Sights – Scenic drive past Lake Rotorua, Government Gardens & more
• Secret Stops – Wildlife encounters & hidden gems en route

Itinerary:

1. Auckland → Waikato – Scenic drive through rolling farmland.
2. Hobbiton – 2.5-hour guided tour (alternate routes may apply during 2025 maintenance).
3. Tirau – Quirky “Corrugated Iron Capital” photo stop.
4. Wai-O-Tapu – Guided walk through geothermal wonders.
5. Rotorua – City highlights tour & optional honey tasting.
6. Return to Auckland – More surprises on the journey back!

Inclusions:

• Small group (max [X] guests)
• All entry tickets & guided tours
• Snacks & water onboard
• Expert commentary + secret stops

Note: Lunch not included (food stops available).

Why Choose This Tour?
Unlike rushed group tours, we focus on depth over speed—with guided experiences at both Hobbiton and Wai-O-Tapu, plus Rotorua’s best sights. Our passionate guides, comfy transport, and unexpected delights (like animal encounters) make this a day to remember!

Cathedral Cove One of the World’s Top 50 Beaches! | Coromandel Peninsula | Hot Water Beach | Native Bush Walks

Itinerary:

• Auckland 2.5hrs
• Hot Water Beach 12mins
• Cathedral Cove 2.75hrs
• Return to Auckland

Hot Water Beach

Relax at the famous Hot Water Beach. If tides allow, dig a hole in the sand to create your personal geothermal spa while ocean waves gently cool you off. Don’t forget swimwear and a change of clothes for this unique experience!

Cathedral Cove

After a delicious lunch (own expense), visit Cathedral Cove, one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural landmarks. The challenging walk to Cathedral Cove takes between 30 – 45 minutes, but the reward is well worth it, stunning coastal views and the opportunity to explore this breathtaking beach. Mautohe Cathedral Cove has been named one of the Top 50 Beaches in the World!!

NOTE: Access to Cathedral Cove is weather-dependent. For safety reasons, the track may be unsuitable after or during heavy rain. In such cases, alternative arrangements will be made to ensure you still have an incredible experience.

As we head back to Auckland, your guide will ensure the journey remains engaging, including secret stops and more fascinating insights along the way.

Inclusions:

• Small Group Tour
• Fully Guided
• Spades for Hot Water Beach
• Water available & snacks provided

Auckland Highlights Day Tour: Volcano, Sails & History
Experience the best of Auckland in one unforgettable day – volcanic views, harbor sails, Māori culture, and seaside charm.

Itinerary Overview

Morning: Mt. Eden Summit

• Climb Auckland’s highest volcanic cone for 360° panoramic views of the city and harbors.
• Walk the crater rim (dormant for 15,000 years!) and learn about its Māori heritage.

Late Morning: Harbor Sailing Adventure

• Cruise past the Auckland Harbour Bridge and vibrant Viaduct Basin.
• Opt for a classic yacht sail or a scenic ferry ride (your choice!).

Afternoon: Auckland War Memorial Museum

• Discover Māori taonga (treasures), Pacific artifacts, and natural history exhibits.
• Don’t miss: The carved wharenui (meeting house) and volcanic geology displays.

Late Afternoon: Devonport Escape,Mount Victoria

• Ferry to this historic seaside village (10-min ride).
• Stroll sandy beaches, boutique shops, or hike North Head for WWII tunnels and sunset views.

Transport: Free Dome Comfortable Luxury Van
Timing: Allocate 1.5 hours per stop;
Hungry: Devonport has top cafés – try The Patriot or Devon on the Wharf.
Flexible: Swap the sail for Waiheke Island or add Ponsonby for dinner.

Why This Itinerary Works:

• Balances nature, culture, and relaxation.
• Uses efficient routes (Devonport ferry departs near the museum).
• Perfect for first-time visitors or short stays.

Day 1: Paihia & Hole in the Rock Cruise

• Morning: Depart for Paihia, a tropical-style gateway to the Bay of Islands (144 islands!).
• Afternoon: Board your cruise for:
  • Dolphin watching from spacious decks
  • Island-hopping past historic Russell
  • Hole in the Rock thrill (weather permitting) – gasp as the boat navigates the narrow sea arch!
• Evening: Soak up Paihia’s beachfront charm.

Day 2: 90-Mile Beach & Cape Reinga

• Morning:
  • Walk among 1,000-year-old kauri trees in Puketi Forest
  • Stop at Kauri Kingdom Café (own expense)
• Afternoon Adventures:
  • Cape Reinga Lighthouse: Witness the clash of Tasman Sea & Pacific Ocean (sacred Māori departing point for spirits)
  • Sandboarding down Te Paki’s giant dunes (all ages welcome!)
  • 90-Mile Beach drive (actually 64 miles!) – feel silica sands beneath your feet

Day 3: Russell Island or Waitangi

• Free morning choice: Russell Island: NZ’s first capital with: Pompallier Mission – 1840s French printing house & tannery. Seaside charm – kayaks, sunbathers, and
  heritage buildings
• OR Waitangi Treaty Grounds (optional): Māori cultural performance.See the world’s largest ceremonial waka (canoe).
• Afternoon: Return to Auckland

HIGHLIGHTS

• The King of the Forest – 2,000-year-old kauri trees in pristine wilderness
• Dune Lakes & Rainbow Falls – Nature’s masterpiece
• Paihia – Tropical vibes in NZ’s northernmost town
• 90-Mile Beach & Cape Reinga Lighthouse
• Hole in the Rock Cruise with dolphin encounters
• Waitangi Treaty Grounds – Birthplace of a nation

Why Choose This Tour?

• Stress-free planning: No need to coordinate transport or tickets—we handle it.
• Local expertise: Fullers’ guides bring landscapes to life with stories and insights.
• Small-group vibes: Intimate experiences without the crowds.