Introducing Waitomo
Discover nature’s perfection – Waitomo Region
More than 30 million years ago, Waitomo first rose from the ocean floor and brought with it a unique underground limestone formation which over the years has become one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders and a must see destination for one and all.
The Waitomo region is only a two-hour drive from the new tourism gateway of the Central North Island, Rotorua, and is home to a stunning collection of breath-taking attractions including the Ruakuri Cave, the Aranui Cave and no one can forget to mention the world-renowned Waitomo Glow worm caves.
Recently reopened after an 18-year hiatus, the Ruakuri Cave is Waitomo’s longest and most comprehensive guided underground walking tour. Taking visitors on a 1.6 kilometre journey, the tour explores deep into the dark recesses of the earth.
Walk through these caves and marvel at the strange but natural beauty, float underneath the magical glow worms or for those wanting something a little more heart-stopping, why not enter the mysterious underground world of ancient caves, rivers and waterfall and even more spectacular limestone creations. To do this, you have to done a wetsuit and try your hand at Black Water Rafting.
The Waitomo District’s main centre is Te Kuiti, famous for its annual sheep muster and run, and also includes the townships of Waitomo, Mokau, PioPio, Awakino, Marokapa and Benneydale and is home to about 9,700 people.
The Legendary Black Water Rafting Company is a classic New Zealand success story of kiwi ingenuity combined with a fantastic underground landscape. What began as a special treat for the brave few has been developed into a spectacular attraction for everyone of any age. Experience a mixture of abseiling, weaving, jumping and floating through a glow-wormed filled subterranean wonderland, and come out the other side in pure awe.
Above ground and on the outside of the caves, lush green fields, tumbling waterfalls and a spectacular rugged coast line which come together to surround the limestone formations and cave systems that make Waitomo District a must-see destination.
The perfect place to relax and get away from the rush hours of the average urban lifestyle, the Waitomo District offers a peaceful rural retreat, and a place to relax and refresh.
A selection of accommodation options is available throughout the region including backpackers, motels and hotels. Waitomo is ideal for New Zealand holidays for locals and visitors alike.
Read more about Waitomo
and
www.waitomo.govt.nz
