Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
B1
D2
Eating
B1
14
Huhu
B1
(see 9)
Drinking & Nightlife
(see 13)
Sights
Waitomo Caves Visitor Centre
( 0800 456 922;
www.waitomo.com
; Waitomo Caves Rd; 9am-5pm)
The big-three Waitomo Caves
are all operated by the same company, based at the flash Waitomo Caves Visitor Centre
(behind the Glowworm Cave), which incorporates a cafe and theatre. Various combo deals
are available, including a Triple Cave Combo (adult/child $91/40). Try to avoid the large
tour groups, most of which arrive between 10.30am and 2.30pm.
VISITOR CENTRE
Glowworm Cave
MAP
CAVE
GOOGLE MAP
(adult/child $48/21; 45min tours every 30min 9am-5pm)
The guided tour of the Glowworm Cave,
which is behind the visitor centre, leads past impressive stalactites and stalagmites into a
large cavern known as the Cathedral. The highlight comes at the tour's end when you
board a boat and swing off onto the river. As your eyes grow accustomed to the dark
you'll see a Milky Way of little lights surrounding you - these are the glowworms. Book
your tour at the visitor centre.
The acoustics are so good that Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and the Vienna Boys Choir have
given concerts here.
Aranui Cave
CAVE
