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Black Water Rafting Experience Waitomo Caves Tour

4.8
Instant confirmation
Free cancellation

Black Water Rafting Experience Waitomo Caves Tour

4.8
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The Black Abyss 25/26

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Black Abyss (2025/2026): Five hour adventure caving tour. Includes abseiling and a zip-line. Prices are valid for tours between 01/10/25 and 30/09/26

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AUD 294.76

The Black Labyrinth 25/26

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Free cancellation
Black Labyrinth (2025/2026): Three-hour adventure caving tour. Prices are valid for tours between 01/10/25 and 30/09/26

From

AUD 176.67

Highlights

Discover the breathtaking underworld of Ruakuri Cave on an unforgettable Black Water Rafting adventure in Waitomo. Choose between the exhilarating 3-hour Black Labyrinth, where you float beneath mesmerizing glowworms and leap off cascading waterfalls, or the immersive 5-hour Black Abyss, combining heart-pounding abseiling, ziplining, and in-depth cave exploration. Both tours promise an adrenaline-fueled journey through a stunning subterranean landscape, perfect for adventure seekers looking to experience New Zealand’s natural wonders.


With expert guides ensuring your safety, you will navigate the cave’s sparkling waters and marvel at its unique formations. All necessary equipment is provided, and after your thrilling experience, unwind with a hot shower and enjoy complimentary snacks. Whether you are floating under a ceiling of glowworms or ziplining across the cave’s river, this tour offers a one-of-a-kind encounter with Waitomo’s magical underground beauty.

  • Glowworm Spectacle: Float beneath a dazzling display of glowworms illuminating the cave ceiling.
  • Thrilling Waterfalls: Jump off cascading waterfalls for an adrenaline-pumping experience in the Black Labyrinth.
  • Abseiling and Ziplining: Experience heart-racing abseiling and ziplining in the Black Abyss tour.
  • Unique Cave Exploration: Discover the stunning subterranean landscapes of Ruakuri Cave with expert guides.

Itinerary

  • Check-In at The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co.

    Admission Ticket FreeDuration: 30 minutes
    Your adventure begins at the main check-in point for both the Black Labyrinth and Black Abyss tours. Friendly guides will greet you, provide a safety briefing, and equip you with all necessary gear (wetsuits, helmets, and more). Secure your belongings in complimentary lockers to keep them safe and dry.
  • Explore Ruakuri Cave: Black Labyrinth or Black Abyss Tour

    Admission Ticket FreeBlack Labyrinth Tour: ~1.5 hours inside the cave (total tour ~3 hours).Black Abyss Tour: ~3 hours inside the cave (total tour ~5 hours).
    Both tours take you deep into the mesmerizing Ruakuri Cave, illuminated by thousands of glowworms that create a starry, otherworldly glow. Black Labyrinth is ideal for beginners, as this tour involves floating on inner tubes through gentle rapids, marveling at glowworms, and navigating small waterfalls. Black Abyss is a more intense adventure, combining abseiling, tubing, and climbing through the cave’s rugged terrain.
  • Return to The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co.

    After your cave adventure, return to the base to unwind. Enjoy hot showers to warm up and savor a complimentary hearty soup to refuel. Collect your belongings from the free lockers and share stories with fellow adventurers.

What's included

INCLUDED

Complimentary hot shower
The use of equipment such as tubes, wetsuits, boots, helmets, abseiling devices (if option chosen) and safety equipment
Abseiling techniques training (if option chosen)

NOT INCLUDED

Entry to Waitomo Cave Museum
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop off
Food and drinks, unless specified

Customer reviews

4.8

328 verified reviews
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Review summary

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The Waitomo Caves Black Water Rafting Tour is highly praised for its thrilling adventure, knowledgeable and friendly guides, and unique experiences like glow worms, rappelling, and zip lining. Many reviewers highlight the personalized and safe tours, despite the cold water and challenging parts. Overall, it's recommended for an unforgettable New Zealand adventure.
about 1 year ago
Estina Liting.Couples

Our guides are very professional and ensure everyone of us are safe and enjoy this adventure! There is always an alternative route/way to choose if you cannot are afraid on certain activity during the trip. A must go experience to explore glowworms in Waitomo :)

12 months ago
Ting

My son had a good time

Additional information

Meeting Point & Check-in Information
  • Meet at The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co, 585 Waitomo Caves Road, Waitomo Caves 3977, New Zealand.
  • Check-in is required 30 minutes before the tour departure.
  • Activity returns to the original meeting point.
Must Know
  • Your safety is the top priority, with expert guides ensuring a secure experience.
  • A minimum of two participants is required for the tour to operate. Solo travelers may need to amend their tour time.
  • Water temperature ranges from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius.
  • Cameras and personal devices are not permitted on the tours.
  • Missing your scheduled tour time forfeits your ticket, with no refunds. New bookings incur full cost and are subject to availability.
Child Policy
  • Black Labyrinth participants must be at least 12 years old and weigh at least 45 kg.
  • Black Abyss participants must be at least 16 years old and weigh at least 45 kg.
Eligibility
  • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.
  • Participants do not need to swim but should be comfortable standing in fast-moving water.
  • Those with serious medical conditions should contact the operator before booking.
  • Guides have final discretion on participation eligibility.
  • Maximum of 12 travelers per tour.
Accessibility
  • Not wheelchair accessible.
  • Near public transportation.
What to Bring

Bring swimwear and a towel. All other equipment is provided.

Booking Confirmation

Your booking will be confirmed by the provider instantly.

Cancellation Policy

A full refund will be processed if cancelled at least 2 days before date of selection. No refund will be processed if cancelled less than 2 days before the date of selection.

Voucher Use

Present your mobile or printed ticket to the tour operator or guide at the meeting point.

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Location

Provider

THL - Waitomo Caves Group

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