WAITOMO CAVES
MUSEUM&
DISCOVERY CENTER
Explore the underground world of Waitomo—without stepping into a cave.
The Waitomo Caves Museum & Discovery Centre is New Zealand’s only specialist speleological museum, offering hands-on exhibits on glowworms, fossils, karst (limestone) landscapes, Māori artefacts, and the history of caving in Aotearoa.
A CHARITY MUSEUM
EVERY VISIT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
The Waitomo Caves Museum is a community-run charity, and every ticket helps! Your entry fee goes straight back into conservation, education, and caring for the treasures of Waitomo — protecting our caves, culture, and wildlife for generations to come.
ENTRY
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Adults: NZD $10
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Children (4–14 yrs): NZD $Free
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Family Pass (2 adults + 2 children): NZD $30
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Seniors: NZD $7
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Group (10+): NZD $7ea
Combo tickets including Glowworm, Ruakuri, or Aranui Caves are also available through local tour operators.
50% discount if purchased with tickets for Waitomo caves.
Separate pricing for school groups.
Help us protect and share the unique history, culture, and wildlife of Waitomo. Your donation makes a lasting difference for future generations.
SUPPORT US
MORE THAN A MUSEUM
At the Waitomo Caves Museum, our mission is to preserve and share the treasures of the region — from fossils, photographs, and moa bones to Māori artefacts and local stories. We are proud to serve both our community and visitors from around the world.
Situated in the heart of Waitomo Village, just 500 metres from the Glowworm Caves with easy parking, the Museum is the perfect first stop before or after your cave adventure.
As a community-led charity operating for more than 50 years, the Discovery Centre is more than just a museum. It’s also Waitomo’s information hub — providing ticket sales for the Glowworm Caves, black water rafting, local accommodation, and adventure activities.
Visitors can also enjoy the convenience of a retail store, NZ Post services, library, photocopying and scanning facilities, as well as public rubbish and toilet amenities.