Fun, Enjoyable Things to Do in Waitomo Caves, New Zealand: Selecting the Best Experiences – Part II
The region of the Waitomo Caves on the North Island of New Zealand has become particularly popular thanks to the intricate network of underground caves lit by myriads of glowworms. This fascinating natural phenomenon attracts many tourists from New Zealand, Australia, and the rest of the world to the Waikato Region.
New Zealand’s North Island, Waikato, and Waitomo
As beautiful and versatile as they are, the Waitomo Caves are by far not the only attraction you can enjoy as a tourist on the North Island of New Zealand and in the Waikato Region. While some locals view the area as somewhat underdeveloped, I find it has great potential to become a popular tourist destination because of its well-preserved nature and raw, pristine vibe combined with a diverse urban life.
To give you just a brief overview, the vast area of volcanic activity and huge national parks is also home to a few cosmopolitan cities. This includes New Zealand’s largest megapolis, Auckland, which is also known as “the City of Sails.” Wellington, the harborside capital, is also located on the North Island.
The Waikato Region is situated in the upper part of the North Island. It is known for its luscious green hills, black sandy beaches, and underground miracles of nature. But most of all, Waikato has become famous for starring as the Shire in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogy. See? This is what I’m talking about when I tell you there is plenty to witness and do here.
The Waitomo Caves Area: Get Your Way Across
I think I already gave you abundant information on the glowworm Waitomo Caves in Part I of this article. If you need to remind yourself about this sightseeing opportunity, please feel free to revisit the post. In another article, we are going to discuss the local lodging options, such as the Waitomo Caves Hotel and more hotels in greater detail, but let us first conclude the list of sightseeing opportunities.
The Kawhia Hot Water Beach
Hot water beaches are probably the most amazing thing I discovered in New Zealand. Coming from the colder part of the Atlantic shoreline in the US, I was not particularly familiar with this natural phenomenon.
Needless to say, going to the Kawhia Hot Water Beach has become one of my favorite activities near Waitomo. Here is what you need to do to enjoy this absolutely amazing place:
Go at low tide and bring a shovel or a similar tool. Alternatively, if you do not feel like carrying any digging equipment around, you can just borrow some from the local beach establishments. Then, you pick a desired spot and dig your own natural SPA, where you can soak in the hot water all day long.
The beach is really spacious, so there is plenty of room for everyone. It is also easily reachable, except for having to climb an occasional dune here and there. The view is stunning because the beach is covered in black iron-colored sand and plenty of tussock, which creates an unusual feel.
The Hobbiton Village in Waitomo
Even if you are not a fan of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogy, visiting the Hobbiton Village in Waitomo is still worth it. True, there most probably will be crowds of people, but, as a local, I will share a little secret with you:
Set your GPS to get you to the Mangaotaki Valley site, which is comfortably tucked away from the main road. This is a little-known location, where the first 20 minutes of The Hobbiton movie were filmed. The owner of the land gives small tours called “Hairy Feet Waitomo” that allow you to enjoy a more private experience.
The Marokopa Falls
Near Waitomo, you can find the stunning Marokopa Falls. In all honesty, I have to say that these are possibly the most beautiful waterfalls in New Zealand. The Marokapa Falls are 36 meters high and provide breathtaking views. The site is located at a short 20-minute walk from Waitomo. Alternatively, you can drive past the Piripiri Cave off the highway.
Here is a short video to show you why you should not miss the Marokopa Falls experience:
Other Sightseeing Opportunities Nearby the Waitomo Caves
To be honest, I could spend all day describing the best sightseeing opportunities and touristic activities near the Waitomo glowworm caves. However, it will never surpass experiencing them firsthand. Therefore, I will list a few more choices here for you in the hopes that you will get to visit them personally:
- The Otorohanga Kiwi House & Native Bird Park
- Kamahi Cottage – Farmstay Accommodation
- Ed Hillary Walkway – Otorohanga
- Raglan Area from Beach and Surfing
I hope you enjoy the beauty of the Waitomo Caves area, Waikato Region, and North Island. Don’t forget to hop on to my next article and discover more adventures!