Discover the ancient and spiritually significant Ruakuri Caves, displaying stalactites and stalagmites that were formed millions of years ago. It has been passed through Maori legend that the Ruakuri Caves were discovered 400-500 years ago by a Maori hunter who stumbled on the cave in search of birds to hunt. The entrance to the cave was surrounded by a pack of wild dogs, hence its name in Maori, ‘rua’ den and ‘kuri’ dogs was given. This story along with the significance of being a sacred burial site are all elements in adding to the beauty of this cave system. On your guided tour you’ll visit Holdens Cavern, The Drum Passage, The Pretties, and The Ghost Passage, each with an interesting story behind its name, so make sure to ask your guide!

Additional Information:

• Child ticket: Age 4-14
• Infants under 4 receive free admission
• All photography is strictly forbidden, this includes non-flash photography and video
• No smoking, food, drink or litter are permitted inside the cave
• Ruakuri Cave is fully wheelchair accessible

Opening Hours:

• Summer Hours: 9:00am-5:30pm (01 Nov – 31 Mar)
• Winter Hours: 9:00am-5:00pm, Closed on Christmas Day
• Tours depart every half an hour from 9:00am-4:00pm
• Tour is approximately 2 hours (1hr 30 min underground)

How To Get There:

• Meeting Point address: 585 Waitomo Village Road (formerly Waitomo Caves Road), Waitomo Caves
• How to get there: 2.5 hour (200km) drive from Auckland, 2 hour drive from Rotorua