Ruakuri Cave Experience from Auckland

Laced with myth and legend, Ruakuri "den of dogs" was first discovered by Maori some 400-500 years ago. It takes it name from the pack of wild dogs that used to inhabit the cave entrance way, "Rua" meaning "den" and "kuri" meaning "dogs".

This Ruakuri Experience Tour travels south from Auckland, through the rich farmland of the Waikato and on to Waitomo. Enjoy a 1.5kilometer (0.9 mile) guided tour through the underground limestone passages, where you will see some amazing cave formations. The Ruakuri Cave is laced with myth and legend. Ruakuri "den of dogs" was first discovered by Maori some 400-500 years ago. For over 18 years it has been closed to the public and has recently opened again for guided walking tours. Formed from limestone over 30 million years ago, Ruakuri cave has around 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) of underground limestone passages and amazing cave formations. Following the tour enjoy lunch at the Long Black Cafe before return to Auckland by coach.

Highlights Include:

• Rangiriri - historic Maori land wars battle site
• Ngaruawahia - home of the Maori Queen
• Waikato River - New Zealand's longest river
• Ruakuri - enjoy a spiritual journey on your guided tour through the narrow winding corridors, hidden waterfalls and amazing cave formations
• Lunch is included in Waitomo

Schedule details

Departure Dates:

Select a month to view a calendar of availability and departure details.

Departure Point:

Tour departs from centrally located Auckland city hotels

OR

SkyCity Travel Center

Departure Time:

• 8:00am

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

Return Details:

Returns to original departure point at approximately 5:00pm

Pricing information

Click the link below to check pricing & availability on your preferred travel date. Our pricing is constantly updated to ensure you always receive the lowest price possible.

Additional information

Inclusions:

• Transport by air-conditioned coach
• Lunch
• Live commentary on board
• Hotel pickup and drop off service from inner city hotels.
• GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Exclusions:

• Gratuities (optional)

Additional Information:

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Infant rates apply provided they do not occupy a seat
• All tours are operated by luxury 5 star coaches, equipped with air conditioning, rest-room facilities, video monitors and reclining seats. For the comfort of all passengers, all tours have been designated as Non Smoking, with regular stops made for those who wish to smoke.

Itinerary:

Daily Schedule

• 8.00am - Depart Auckland, morning tea stop at Rangiriri (20 minutes)
• 11.15am - Arrive Ruakuri
• 11.30am - Depart for Ruakuri Guided Tour
• 1.15pm - Return to Black Water Rafting and enjoy lunch at the Long Black Cafe
• 1.45pm - Depart Ruakuri, afternoon tea stop in Huntly (20 minutes)
• 5.30pm - Arrive Auckland

Local Operator Information:

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.