A secret glowworm galaxy tucked into a quiet forest valley.
Just outside Kawakawa, these limestone caves are home to thousands of glowworms lighting up the darkness like stars. The Kawiti Glowworm Caves offer a peaceful, family-run alternative to the big-name sites—guided exclusively by descendants of the Kawiti whānau, who have cared for this place for generations.

The 45-minute guided tour takes you along a 200 m wooden boardwalk, through cavernous tunnels dripping with stalactites, to the glowworm grottos—three major clusters that twinkle like constellations overhead. The stories shared by your guide are as powerful as the glowworms themselves, weaving together geology, Māori history, and local knowledge.

Tip: 

I would advise to also ask about the trail next to the caves, because it’s worth it to walk to the top of the hill and back in under 20 mins. It’s worth it, but you need permission from the people at the reception.

💡 Guided tours only – 45 mins

🕒 Open daily 9 am–4 pm (closed Christmas Day)

💰 Entry: Adults $50, Children (5–15) $30, Under 5s free, Family $130.

🌙 Twilight tour option (~$200) for a deeper glow experience

👣 Moderate walking – wooden boardwalk with steps (not stroller/wheelchair friendly)

🚗 Located on Waiomio Road, 5 min south of Kawakawa (signposted off SH1)

🧥 Cave is dark, cool and damp – bring good shoes and a jacket

* Details above from mid 2025

Tips:

• Book in advance during summer and public holidays – group sizes are small

• No cameras, torches, or phones during the glowworm sections

• Pair your visit with a walk up the nearby Waiomio Valley trail

• Great for families or anyone wanting a peaceful, natural cave experience

Reviews:
“Beautiful and otherworldly—like walking under a sky full of stars in total silence. Our guide was awesome at sharing Māori history too.” – Rachel, 2024. TripAdvisor
“With far fewer tourists than Waitomo, this felt special and personal. The glow was brilliant and the cave formations were stunning.” – James, 2023. Google Reviews

🔗 Handy Websites for Info:

• https://www.kawiticaves.co.nz

• https://www.showcaves.com/english/nz/showcaves/Kawiti.html

• https://www.visitboi.co.nz/listing/kawiti-glow-worm-caves