Journey underground, to the depths of New Zealand caves and forests, where glowworms dot the ceilings of these incredible natural formations. Glowworms beam a brillant blue-ish glow from their damp dwellings, and make for a breathtaking sight. From Northland to the deep south in Te Anau, these are the best spots to see glowworms in New Zealand. To venture into caves and gaze in awe at these bright creatures is a memorable and must-do New Zealand experience.
1. Waitomo Glowworms Caves
The Waitomo Glowworm caves are in the North Island village of Waitomo, just under 2.5 hours drive from Central Auckland. See thousands of radiant glowworms as you tour the grotto by boat on this guided tour. It’s a step back in time, as you consider the history of this natural landscape and how these caves came to be. Waitomo Glowworm caves are one of the best natural attractions in New Zealand.
2. Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Venture over towards the Murchison Mountains in Te Anau on a guided tour of the glowworm caves. You quickly grasp the sheer size of these caves and how what you explore is just a fraction of the untouched natural landscape in Fiordland. Hundreds of glowworms glisten above as you drift through the dark, silent grotto on a small boat. Enjoy a cruise across Lake Te Anau too.
3. Hokitika Glowworm Dell
This spot to see glowworms is only minutes walk from the main road, but is just as outstanding as other glowworm spots in New Zealand. It’s merely a few minutes drive from Hokitika town, and is sign-posted with a modest New Zealand road sign. Grab a torch and head here at night to see the spectacular glowworms that live here.
Growing fond of this South Island town? Check out The 5 Most Instagrammable Spots in Hokitika.
4. Kawiti Caves, Waiomio
This Northland spot in the depths of the Waiomio Valley is an incredible spot to visit. Almost other-worldly, these caves begin with fascinating rock formations and greenery, and carry on to host a ‘milky way’ of glow worms lighting up the ceiling. Kawiti Caves offer a walk through beautiful bush and rainforest and 200 meters of limestone cave, dancing with glowworms that you can see fairly close-up! This is an amazing Northland guided tour experience.
5. Lake McLaren, Bay of Plenty
The evening glowworm kayak tour with Waimarino Kayak Tours starts with a paddle on Lake McLaren after you’ve watched the sunset over the picturesque landscape. It’s completely dark once you arrive at the glowworm cave, giving the most magical experience with thousands of glowworms lining the canyon. Your experienced guides offer some insight into glowworms and the surrounding area, making this one of the most all-round spectacular kayak tours in New Zealand!
