Best Places to Spot Glow Worms in New Zealand

Glow worms in New Zealand are extremely popular among tourists around the world. You would have come across glowworm caves when you did your research on the places to visit in New Zealand. Glowworms are tiny creatures that emit light naturally from an organ near their tails. It is a truly magical and romantic experience of sailing through the glowworm-lit passage of limestone rock caves. You should definitely add it to your New Zealand travel packages for a mesmerizing adventure.

Where are the glow worms caves in new zealand

1. Te Anau Glow worm Caves

Cruise through Lake Te Anau before entering underground through the narrow passageways, whirlpools, underground waterfalls and into the glow worm grotto. The small boat glides through the caves during the day or night, allowing visitors to view the spectacular sparkling ceiling. The display is nothing short of ordinary.

2. Waitomo Glowworm Cave

Waitomo Glowworm Caves occupy a high place in the New Zealand vacation wish-list. A popular location for blackwater rafting and caving and possibly the best place to spot glow worms. You need to venture 150 feet underground to witness the sparkling show put on by the glow worms. Get ready to be fascinated by the shining insects.

3. Hokitika Glowworm Dell

Watch these tiny creatures radiate their unmistakable luminescent light in your evening walk at Hokitika Glowworm Dell. The insects live in the banks under tall trees and this outdoor gathering can be found here year-round. This site is off the tourist trail, so it’s likely you won’t encounter large crowds.

Best Places to Spot Glow Worms in New Zealand

4. Wellington Botanic Garden

You don’t have to leave the comforts of the city and enter caves, explore the Botanic Garden by night for this fascinating one-hour tour into the secret world of the glow worms and their sticky, prey-catching nets. See the glow worms on the overhanging banks of the hills from the paths in the Main Garden, from the Duck Pond up to Glen Road along the Pukatea Stream.

5. Minnehaha Glowworm Walk

Watch the lowland forest come alive at night with the Arachnocampa luminosa glow worms. This relaxing walk follows a small stream through the rainforest exposed to many types of forest trees, ferns and mosses before finding the stunning sight of the mystical glowing lights in tree trunks and along the banks. This walk is open to all and wheelchair-friendly too.

6. Lake Rotoiti

Take a dreamy night kayaking tour along the beautiful lake and enter the Glow worm caves to get an insight on the strange life of these creatures which suspend sticky silken threads and glows to attract tiny insects to the trap. Soak in the natural hot pool after and take in the beautiful scenery.

7. Paparoa National Park

Journey by Rainforest Train into the Nile River Canyon and explore the upper levels of the large Metro/Te Ananui cave systems, by rafting, in its natural wilderness state. Get up close to interpret the best Glow worm display, away from the crowd. Your guide will explain the life cycle of the Arachnocampa Luminosa and the intricate webs used to catch their prey.

8. Kawiti Caves

The Kawiti Caves, also known as the Waiomio Caves attracts many visitors with its karst features and stalactite formations. Discover thousands of glowworms replicating a starry night’s sky in this intimate cave network. Journey underground through networks of stalactites and stalagmites to hidden chambers like the Waiomio night sky where the glow worms are so close you can almost touch them.

9. Waipu Caves

How about an unguided tour of the Waipu Caves where you can find a galaxy of glowworms? The caves are undeveloped and absolutely free, so you have to find your own way inside out! It is also the only place where you can view the glowworms “crowd-free”. There are no tracks or paths in the cave and wading through water and clambering over mud banks may be necessary.

10. Lake Karapiro

It’s a hidden gem. Kayak up Lake Karapiro to Pokaiwhenua Stream and through the canyon carved out by water, you will be rewarded with the breathtaking scenery. Paddle downstream and gaze in silence at the myriad of glow worm lights. Float through the starry wonderland and experience a serene ambience.

FAQs on Best Places to Spot Glow Worms in New Zealand

Q: What actually are glow worms?

A: As the name says, glow worms are bioluminescent insects that can be found in damp, dark places. These insects emit a soft blue-green light that creates a magical glow and awe-struck viewers.

Q: When is the best time to see glow worms in New Zealand?

A: You can spot glow worms year-round, but it is recommended to visit in warmer months around spring and summer times to have more pleasant experience for exploring.

Q: Are guided tours available to see glow worms in New Zealand?

A: Yes, many organization offers guided tours for watching glow worms in New Zealand.

Q: Are there any age or health restrictions for seeing glow worms in New Zealand caves?

A: Some caves might have age or health restrictions due to physically challenging pathways and safety concerns.

Q: Is it possible to visit multiple glow worm spots in one trip?

A: Yes, it is possible only if those caves are nearby. You can plan your trip and considering the location proximity to visit multiple caves in one trip.

Witness this beauty at any of these stunning locations. It would be the perfect setting for a romantic date. Just picture a boat ride in the midst of the glowworm light. That’s simply perfect. Plan your New Zealand honeymoon packages with Pickyourtrail to enjoy this romantic experience with your partner. Make your dream vacation a reality!