Waitomo Walkway

The walkway is an easy grade except for some short steep parts. It starts in the Waitomo Village (opposite the Discovery Centre) and passes up through bush and across farmland with some great views back to the Waitomo Village.

It then crosses the Te Anga Road beyond the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. From here it follows the Waitomo Stream through a mix of shady forest and open farmland to the Ruakuri Scenic Reserve.

Waitomo Walkway corresponds to #2 on the map and finishes at the Ruakuri Scenic Reserve. #3 - the Waitomo Caves car park walk is a 5 min walk that starts as part of the Waitomo Walkway.

Getting there

Starts at Waitomo Village, 16 km northwest (by road) of Te Kuiti.

Nature and conservation

The Waitomo Walkway has a variety of limestone features to view. Dolines (enclosed depressions), karren (fluted outcrops), arches tunnels and caves are collectively known as karst. This special landscape is a feature of Waitomo, with the Waitomo Caves world famous for their beauty and abundance of glow worms.

Along the banks of the Waitomo Stream you will see a major replanting project undertaken by the community, DOC and Environment Waikato to improve water quality and reduce the effect of erosion.

Know before you go

• There are a number of sections along the walkway where you cross onto private land.
• Follow marker posts and use stiles where provided. Be aware of electric fences.
• The Waitomo Walkway can be prone to flooding in times of heavy rain. 
• There is a small general store in Waitomo where supplies may be bought.
• Fill up your vehicle with fuel at Otorohanga, Piopio or Te Kuiti as there are no service stations from Waitomo west.

Source: Department of Conservation