The Waitomo Experience
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Open Hours: 8am to 5pm
Description
Introducing the newest adventure in the famous Waitomo region, black water rafting through the exclusive Okohua Cave.
The Waitomo Experience is an epic, three-hour adventure taking you through magical glowworm-filled caverns while floating and exploring the natural wonders of the Okohua Cave. Once you’ve wound your way through the cave, complete your adventure with a stunning short walk through native bush and climb into a cedar hot tub, to warm up and soak in the beautiful environment around you.
Located just a short 10-minute drive out of the famous Waitomo Village. You’ll travel through stunning, quintessential Kiwi farmland and native bush before arriving at your destination. You’ll be suited and booted before our highly trained guides take you on a descent down into the hidden playground, the Okohua Cave.
Beneath the surface, you will discover a completely new world. Traverse through ancient limestone passageways, carved out by crystal clear water over millions of years. Explore the unique formations of the cave, jump into fresh spring water and float on tubes, looking up at a ceiling illuminated by thousands of glow worms. This experience combines exhilarating fun with breathtaking natural beauty.
Sustainability is a key focus of the Waitomo Experience, which expands outside of the cave and into the surrounding whenua (land). Not only does the cave lie within a certified carbon positive farm, but we also focus on smaller, more intimate tour groups. This allows a premium experience for our visitors, whilst also preserving the cave.
Kaitiakitanga (the Maori concept of guardianship of the natural environment, protecting and looking after the land) is something we take very seriously. To give back to the Okahua cave, for every visitor that comes through, a native tree is planted to give thanks and continue to protect the natural asset we are lucky enough to enjoy.
The Okohua cave is nestled in the heart of the Tumu Tumu property. As third-generation caretakers of the land, our family is deeply committed to sustainable farming practices to ensure our natural treasures are preserved and protected. After creating many special memories in this breathtaking hidden world, we are excited to be able to share the magic the Okohua cave has to offer with others.
Discover for yourself, an adventure of a lifetime. Book now.
Map & Directions
754 Boddie Rd, Waitomo Caves Waikato 3981 New Zealand
Cancellation Policy
Terms & Conditions
The Waitomo Experience Terms
Terms and Conditions – The Waitomo Experience Limited
1. General Information
1.1 These terms and conditions apply to all tours operated by The Waitomo Experience Limited.
1.2 By booking a tour with us, you (“the participant”) agree to these terms and conditions.
2. Booking & Payment
2.1 All bookings must be made in advance through our website, by phone, or in person.
2.2 Full payment is required at the time of booking unless otherwise agreed.
2.3 A confirmation email will be sent upon successful booking.
2.4 No cash sales will be accepted.
3. Cancellation & Refund Policy
3.1 Customer Cancellations
Full refund for cancellations made at least 48 hours before the tour.
No refund for cancellations made less than 48 hours before the tour.
3.2 Operator Cancellations
We reserve the right to cancel tours due to safety concerns, severe weather, or unforeseen circumstances.
Flooding: Tours may be cancelled due to unsafe river conditions caused by heavy rain.
If we cancel a tour, customers will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.
3.3 No Shows & Late Arrivals
No refund will be provided if you fail to show up for your tour.
If you are running late, call ahead, and rescheduling may be available at our discretion.
4. Tour Details
Duration: Approximately 3 hours (2 hours underground).
Check-in: 15 minutes before departure at 754a Boddies Road, RD1, Te Kūiti (10 minutes from Waitomo Village).
4.1 Preparation
What to Bring:
Swimwear
Towel
Old woollen/ boot socks
Change of clothes
4.2 Provided Gear:
Wetsuits
Footwear
Helmets
Lights
Tubes
4.3 Facilities:
Hot tub
Hot showers
Toilets
Lockable storage
Refreshments
Bean bags for relaxation
5. Safety & Participant Responsibilities
5.1 Acknowledgment of Risk
Caving involves inherent risks, including but not limited to uneven terrain, water hazards, and confined spaces.
Participants acknowledge these risks and agree to follow all safety instructions.
All participants must read and sign a risk disclosure statement before starting the tour.
5.2 Guidelines
• Participants must follow all safety instructions provided by our staff.
Fitness & Medical Conditions
Participants must be in good health and disclose any medical conditions that may affect their ability to safely complete the tour. These include but are not limited to:
Epilepsy
Diabetes
Pregnancy
Heart conditions
Head injuries
Spinal injuries
Recent or regular dislocations
Artificial limbs
Serious mobility issues
Neurological disorders
Serious visual or auditory impairment
It is important this information is disclosed for your safety and for those on your tour. Most minor medical conditions will not preclude participation. If you suffer from any of the pre-existing medical conditions listed above, please contact our team before booking your Okahua Glowworm Cave tour.
Physical Requirements: Participants should be able to:
Step up 50 cm unaided.
Climb onto a 1-meter high object unaided.
Climb a ladder unaided.
Hike 2 km in rough terrain.
Swimming Competency: While swimming skills aren’t mandatory, participants should be comfortable in fast-running water, darkness and deep water.
Right to Refuse Participation: We reserve the right to refuse participation if we believe a person is unfit for the activity.
5.4 Age & Weight Requirements
Minimum Age: 12 years old.
Minimum Weight: 45 kg.
Maximum Weight 130kg
Ages 12-16 must be accompanied by an adult (18 and over).
5.5 Alcohol & Drugs
No alcohol or drug use before or during the tour.
Participants found under the influence will be denied participation with no refund.
6. Liability & Waiver
6.1 Limitation of Liability
We take all reasonable safety precautions but accept no liability for personal injury, loss, or damage to property, unless caused by our proven negligence.
6.2 Indemnity
By participating, you agree to release and hold harmless The Waitomo Experience Limited from any claims related to injury, loss, or damage occurring during the tour unless they result from the company’s proven negligence.
6.3 Waiver
All participants must sign a waiver before joining the tour.
7. Conduct & Compliance
7.1 Participants must follow the instructions of staff at all times.
7.2 Disruptive or dangerous behaviour may result in removal from the tour without a refund.
8. Photography & Media
8.1 Restrictions
• Personal cameras and GoPros are not permitted during the tour for safety reasons.
8.2 Alternative
• Guides will take photos, which will be available for free post-tour.
8.3 Promotional Use
• We may take photos/videos during tours for promotional use. If you do not wish to appear in any media, please inform us before the tour.
9. Governing Law
9.1 These terms are governed by the laws of New Zealand.
9.2 Any disputes shall be resolved in New Zealand courts.