Waipu is a charming corner of New Zealand that offers more than just stunning scenery. It’s a hub for memorable tours and experiences that bring out the best of North Island’s natural beauty and local craftsmanship. Whether you’re into awe-inspiring caves, scenic coastal walks, or delicious handmade chocolates, Waipu has something to satisfy every curiosity. Our favorite is the Auckland: Milkyway Glowworm Cave & Coastal Day Trip because it combines an unforgettable glowworm adventure with a scenic drive along the coast, making it a perfect full-day outing.
For those seeking a more in-depth cave experience, the Starburst Cathedral in Milky Way Glowworm Cave offers a rare chance to see the cave’s crystal formations and glowworms up close. If you prefer a flexible, locally flavored day with chocolate, beaches, and farm visits, the Northland Hidden Gems: Glowworm Cave, Beach & Art Café covers all that in just over eight hours. Below, I’ll walk you through each of these top tours, sharing what makes them special and how they fit different travel styles.
1. Auckland: Milkyway Glowworm Cave & Coastal Day Trip
At number one, this full-day Auckland: Milkyway Glowworm Cave & Coastal Day Trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into Northland’s natural highlights. Starting with a scenic drive from Auckland, the tour takes you through lush countryside before stopping at Waipu Cove, which is perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in ocean views. The highlight is the guided tour of the Milkyway Glowworm Cave, where you’ll experience the enchantment of thousands of glowworms illuminating the dark. This tour includes a visit to Bennetts of Mangawhai Chocolate, where you can enjoy handcrafted chocolates, a sweet ending to your day.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of nature, culinary treats, and beachside relaxation. The guide’s commentary is engaging, and the small group size ensures a personalized experience. The itinerary also features a visit to Orewa Beach, where you can take a leisurely walk along the sand and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. The 9-hour duration makes it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip without feeling rushed. It’s especially suited for those who love a mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a balanced itinerary with highlights that appeal to nature lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike, making it perfect for first-time visitors wanting a full Northland experience.
2. New Zealand: Starburst Cathedral in Milky Way Glowworm Cave
For those craving an immersive, intimate experience, the Starburst Cathedral in Milky Way Glowworm Cave is the premium tour. This 1.5-hour underground adventure takes you much deeper into the cave system, where you’ll see delicate crystal formations and thousands of glowworms lit up in their natural habitat. This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a more educational and in-depth exploration of the cave environment, as the guide shares detailed insights into glowworm biology and cave geology.
A highlight is the Starburst Cathedral, a stunning chamber that resembles a natural concert hall, where you are invited to sing and experience the silence and beauty of the space. Since this tour is limited to adults and older children, it offers a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere than the full-day options. Expect to be underground for a full hour, making it a more intense but rewarding experience for those who want to see the glowworms in their most spectacular form.
Reviews mention the clarity of the formations and the chance to get very close to the glowworms, which can be hard to find elsewhere. The tour’s shorter length makes it a good pick for travelers with limited time or those who want a focused, high-quality cave visit.
Bottom Line: If your priority is a deeper, more educational experience with fewer crowds and a chance to truly marvel at the glowworms, this premium tour hits the spot.
3. Northland Hidden Gems: Glowworm Cave, Beach & Art Café
Our third pick is the Northland Hidden Gems, a flexible 8-hour tour that combines chocolate, caves, beaches, and local art. Starting with a guided tour of Bennetts of Mangawhai, you get to see how their famous handmade chocolates are crafted, and you can sample or purchase some to enjoy later. From there, the tour heads to Waipu Caves Farm Park, where you’ll feed friendly goats—most kids and animal lovers find this farm visit especially delightful.
Next, you’ll explore Ruakākā Beach, which offers a peaceful walk along white sands and calm waters—perfect for unwinding after the farm visit. The highlight is the visit to the Milky Way Glowworm Cave, where you’re encouraged to take photos (a rarity for glowworm caves). The tour concludes with a relaxing lunch at Eutopia Café, known for its artistic vibe and fresh, locally inspired dishes.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a mix of nature, local craftsmanship, and seaside relaxation. The small group size (up to 5 participants) means a more personal experience, and the flexible schedule allows you to enjoy each stop at your own pace. The tour’s affordability and variety make it especially good for families or groups who want a bit of everything.
Bottom Line: For a relaxed, locally flavored day that combines chocolate, farm fun, and coastal scenery, this tour offers great value and a true taste of Northland.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: Do you want a full-day adventure with a variety of sights and breaks? The Auckland: Milkyway Glowworm Cave & Coastal Day Trip is ideal. If you prefer a more immersive, quiet experience underground, go for the Starburst Cathedral. Lastly, for those who enjoy a laid-back, multi-stop day with chocolate tasting and a farm visit, the Northland Hidden Gems is a flexible choice.
Think about your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you love photography and want to capture glowworms, the Northland tour allows photos inside the cave. For families or wildlife lovers, the farm visit might be more engaging. And if you’re short on time but want a deep dive into the glowworm experience, the Starburst Cathedral tour will satisfy.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date and time. Each option offers a unique way to explore Waipu’s natural and cultural highlights—pick the one that best matches your travel style and enjoy New Zealand’s authentic side.
Waipu’s variety of tours means there’s something for every traveler—whether it’s a full-day scenic adventure, a focused underground exploration, or a relaxed day of chocolate and coast. Each experience highlights a different aspect of this beautiful region, so you can tailor your trip to your interests. Don’t wait—book early and make your Waipu visit truly memorable.