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Auckland to Waitomo Caves from $21: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Auckland, New Zealand
to
Waitomo Caves, New Zealand

How to Get from Auckland to Waitomo Caves: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$21 by busBest price
203 kmDistance
2h 27m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Auckland to Waitomo Caves with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
KiwiRail - Northern Explorer
Train
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$66-90
Recommended
Company
GreatSights
Bus
Average Duration
7h 
Estimated price
$21-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 203 km
Duration: 2h 27m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  27m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  31m
Estimated price
$83-213
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  1m
Estimated price
$84-243
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  50m
Estimated price
$660-218
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Traveling From Auckland to Waitomo Caves

The journey from Auckland to Waitomo Caves offers a striking contrast between the bustling urban vibe of New Zealand's largest city and the enchanting underground wonders of limestone formations and glowworms.

Best Neighbourhoods in Waitomo Caves

Waitomo Caves features charming neighborhoods that enhance your visit experience.

Waitomo Village
• Closest access to the famous caves.
• Quaint accommodations with local hospitality.
Te Kuiti
• Known for its rich sheep farming culture.
• Offers a good range of dining options.
Otorohanga
• Gateway to the Waitomo region's attractions.
• Features a delightful kiwi house and gardens.

Best Times To Visit Waitomo Caves's Attractions

Timing your visit to Waitomo Caves's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Glowworm Caves
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer visitors and a tranquil atmosphere.
Ruakuri Cave
Weekdays are less crowded, especially in spring and autumn, offering a peaceful exploration.
Mokoroa Falls Track
Aim for early mornings or weekdays to enjoy scenic views with minimal foot traffic.

Waitomo Caves Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Waitomo Caves experiences a mild, temperate climate with warm summers and cool, damp winters. Visiting during spring and autumn typically provides the most pleasant conditions, while rain can enhance the lush landscape but may affect outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Waitomo Caves

At The Waitomo Homestead, try the locally sourced venison dish, which showcases the rich flavors of New Zealand's countryside and contrasts with Auckland's more cosmopolitan menus. The rustic atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, regional ingredients create a dining experience that feels both authentic and connected to the land.

Auckland - Waitomo Caves operators

Explore transport companies operating between Auckland and Waitomo Caves, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train
Contact phone
+64 4495 0775
Website
greatjourneysofnz.co.nz

Train from Auckland Strand to Otorohanga

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
663-664
Bus
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5790
Website
greatsights.co.nz

Bus from Auckland - Central to Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
21-665
Contact phone
+64 9 583 5780
Website
intercity.co.nz

Bus from Auckland - Central to Waitomo Township

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
901-40
Plane
Website
airnewzealand.com

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Tauranga (TRG)

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
666-667

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to Taupo (TUO)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
666-668

Plane from Auckland (AKL) to New Plymouth (NPL)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
664-669

Auckland to Waitomo Caves: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Auckland and Waitomo Caves offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an enchanting road trip from Auckland to Waitomo Caves, spanning 126 miles of scenic beauty and adventure waiting to be discovered. 💰 Prices to reach the captivating Waitomo Caves from Auckland range from $30 to $50, offering a budget-friendly yet unforgettable exploration of the underground wonders awaiting you.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚆 Traveling from Auckland to Waitomo Caves by train takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes, offering a scenic journey through the New Zealand countryside. 🎫 The prices for a train ticket between Auckland and Waitomo Caves range from $66 to $90, providing affordable transportation options for travelers.
🛫 Enjoy a quick and convenient flight from Auckland Airport to Tauranga Airport, a journey that takes just 40 minutes with Air New Zealand.
Departure Point
Auckland Airport
Arrival Point
Tauranga Airport
🚌 Experience the scenic journey from Auckland to Waitomo Caves by bus, departing twice daily and taking approximately 7 hours. 🌟 Route 1: Travel 179 km in 3 hours and 50 minutes from Auckland to Waitomo Caves with a stopover in Palmerston North. InterCity operates this leg of the journey with comfort and convenience. 🌟 Route 2: Alternatively, embark on an exciting 3 hours and 35 minutes trip with a transfer in Wellington Central before continuing to Palmerston North and reaching your final destination at Waitomo Township.
Departure Point
Auckland - Central station
Arrival Point
Waitomo Glowworm Caves station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Auckland to Waitomo Caves.

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The distance between Auckland and Waitomo Caves is 160.9 km by road. It would take approximately 2 hours and 27 minutes to drive from Waitomo Caves to Auckland. Alternatively, if you prefer public transportation, it takes 4 hours and 35 minutes by train to reach Waitomo Caves from Auckland, or 7 hours by bus. Another option is to fly from Auckland and then drive, which takes about 4 hours and 31 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Auckland to Waitomo Caves is by bus, which typically costs between $20 and $40. However, this mode of transportation also has the longest travel time, taking around 7 hours to reach the destination. On the other hand, the fastest way to travel from Auckland to Waitomo Caves is by car, which takes approximately 2 hours and 27 minutes and costs about $30 to $50.
The price of a train ticket from Auckland to Waitomo Caves ranges from $38 to $61. Alternatively, taking a bus from Waitomo Caves to Auckland will cost between $20 and $40.
To get from Auckland to Waitomo Caves without using public transportation, you can choose to drive your own car or rent one. The driving distance is approximately 202.8 km, and it usually takes around 2 hours and 27 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Rental car prices vary, ranging from $30 to $50, so it's advisable to compare prices from different car rental companies.
The best way to travel from Auckland to Waitomo Caves without a car is by train, which takes approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes. The train ride offers scenic views and comfortable seating options. The cost of the train ticket ranges from $35 to $65, depending on the class and availability.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Auckland and Waitomo Caves. The bus service, operated by GreatSights, departs twice daily from Auckland - Central station and arrives at Waitomo Glowworm Caves station. The journey takes approximately 7 hours.
The flight from Auckland Airport to Tauranga Airport, which is the closest airport to Waitomo Caves, takes approximately 40 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but typically it ranges from around $100 to $200 per person.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Waitomo Caves. There are over 36 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $60.