Discover the wonder of Ruakuri Cave
See Glowworms right up close in this magical cave. Journey down through the spectacular spiral entrance, marvel at the limestone formations and crystal tapestries in this uniquely sustainable experience (this is a solar powered cave!).
Ruakuri Cave is an experience that must be seen to be believed. Offering a captivating blend of the most compelling subterranean experiences (including glowworms), it will leave you open-mouthed, awe-struck and humbled by the sheer majesty of nature. Begin the tour by journeying down through the spectacular, man-made spiral entrance, marvel at the softly folding shawl-like limestone formations and crystal tapestries while listening to the distant thunder of subterranean waterfalls. If you want to see glowworms up-close and personal and learn about their fascinating life, then this is the tour for you. Photography is permitted in Ruakuri Cave, and we also offer photography tours.
Major features of the Ruakuri Cave tour include; Holdens Cavern, named after James Holden who first opened the cave to the public, The Drum Passage, The Pretties, and The Ghost Passage.
With clever and innovative design, Ruakuri Cave has full wheelchair and pushchair access and both the cave and its visitor centre is proudly powered by 100% renewable energy.
Compare all experiences to find the right tour for you.
Please note - you will need your own transport to get to the Ruakuri Cave.
Please note - wheelchair/stroller width must not exceed 65cm.
Backpacks are not premitted
Glowworms
Wheelchair Access
Photography
Prices
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NZD$113 Adult
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NZD$43 Child
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NZD$274 Family (2A+2C)
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NZD$41 Extra Child (Family Pass)
Deals
Top Cave Combo - Ruakuri Cave + Aranui Cave
Most Popular Combo - Ruakuri Cave + Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Essential Information
Essential Information
- Ruakuri Visitor Centre, Tumutumu Road, Waitomo
- 0800 456 922
- Open daily - Pre-Booking is essential
- Tours depart from 10am with the last tour at 3.30pm. Additional tours maybe available over summer period.
- caveinfo@waitomo.com
Departure Information
Current departure times:
Open daily 10am - 3.30pm
Pre-bookings are essential - please book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Tours depart from 10am (last tour at 3.30pm) from the Ruakuri Visitor Centre on Tumutumu Road.
You must have your own transport for this tour (the Ruakuri Visitors Centre is located a short drive from the Waitomo Glowworm Cave Visitors Centre).
Wheelchair/stroller width must not exceed 65cm.
Backpacks aren't permitted inside the cave
Allow 1.5 hours.
It is essential to check-in 30 minutes prior to tour departure - you will need to continue on from the Waitomo Glowworm Cave.
Failure to check in on time will result in missing your tour's departure and forfeiting your tickets.
Preparation
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Wear a warm jacket
- Bring your camera
Ruakuri Cave is accessible to everyone and is fully wheelchair and pushchair accessible (wheelchair/pushchair width must not exceed 65cm). If you require a wheelchair, please contact us prior to your tour.
Photography and video are permitted in selected areas of the cave.
You must check in 30 minutes prior to your tour departure.
Please note: The Ruakuri Cave Visitor Centre is a cashless site. We strongly advise booking your tour online, and make sure you bring a contactless method of payment (credit card, apple pay etc) for on site.
Please note: large backpacks aren't premitted inside the cave
FAQs
Do I need to Pre -Book a ticket? Yes, pre-booking is essential to avoid missing out, especially over the summer months. Plus it's easy, just select your preferred date and time, and pre-pay for your tickets online.
What is the check-in location? Check-in for Ruakuri Cave tours is at the Ruakuri Visitor Centre, located on Tumutumu Road, follow the signs. The Ruakuri Visitor Centre is a short drive from the main Glow Worm Caves. Toilets are available at the visitor centre.
What is the check-in time? You must check in at the Ruakuri Visitor Centre at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour departure. If you're late or miss your departure time, your ticket will be non-refundable and fortified.
What do I need to bring on the tour? All you will need are comfortable walking shoes and a warm jacket.
Are there glowworms on this tour? Yes, there are, you can even grab a selfie with them!
How long is the tour? Allow 1.5 hours.
Is the cave accessible for wheelchairs and push chairs? Yes, Ruakuri if full accessible allowing for both wheelchairs and push chairs to enjoy the tour. However, due to our narrow passageways, the wheelchair or stroller must not exceed 65cm.
Can you take photos or video this tour? Photography and video are permitted in selected areas of the cave.
Are kids free? Under 4-year-olds go free but must be booked to secure a place on tour.
Can I include a child aged over 14 as a child in a family pass? No, children over the age of 14 will need to be booked as an adult. Proof of age may be required.
What does a family pass consist of? Two adults and two children.