Bay Of Islands Tours Ltd Waitangi Animal Encounter

Enjoy a guided Bay Of Islands Cruise Ship Tour with Glow Worm Caves!

The Bay of Islands is a popular tourist destination in New Zealand. With an abundance of breathtaking, picturesque views, there are plenty of fantastic photo opportunities. Create lasting memories on a Bay of Islands Cruise Ship Shore Excursion including the Glow Worm Caves!
Departure:

9:30 am* from the Waitangi Wharf
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure for check-in, as we depart promptly at the scheduled time to ensure the day runs smoothly.
*If your cruise schedule doesn’t align with this time, we work with the visiting ship’s timetable to arrange a departure and return that suits.

Tour Highlights:
Kawiti Glow Worm Caves
Hundertwasser Toilets/Kawakawa
Puketi Kauri Forest
Kauri Workshop
Makana Chocolate Factory
Haruru Falls
Waitangi Lookout Loop

What to Expect:


At 9:15 am, your local guide will meet you at Waitangi
Wharf for check in.
The first stop is the Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, about a 30-minute drive
away, where you’ll experience the magic of the glowworms. (Please note: camera
flashes are not allowed inside the caves, as they can harm the glowworm
environment.)
Next, visit the charming town of Kawakawa, known as "train town." & visit the world famous colourful public toilets
designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser!

At around 11:45 am, arrive at Puketi Forest, a 15,000-hectare area home to magnificent Kauri trees and rich ecological diversity.
By 12:30 pm, stop for lunch at a local cafe or bakery, offering a variety of delicious options.
Afterward, visit the Makana Chocolate Factory in Kerikeri, where you can watch chocolates being made, sample treats, and shop for goodies. Nearby is the Kauri Workshop, featuring crafts and collectibles.
The tour continues to Haruru Falls, a beautiful horseshoe waterfall nestled in a tranquil valley on the Waitangi River.
The final stop is the Waitangi Lookout Loop, providing stunning panoramic views of Waitangi and the Bay of Islands — a perfect spot to take in the scenery before heading back to the wharf or Paihia for some free time.
All guides are local experts, sharing insights into our wildlife, history, and culture throughout the day.
Important Notes:
A 100% full refund is available if your ship cannot port.
Complimentary bottled water is provided.
Only the lead passenger's name is required when booking.





Important Safety Information
At Bay of Islands Tours Ltd, your safety is our top priority. Before booking, please take a moment to read the important information below to ensure our tours are suitable for you.

⚠️ Risks & Hazards
While we take every precaution to keep you safe, our tours involve certain inherent risks, including: Uneven terrain, steps, or slippery surfaces Sudden weather changes (rain, wind, heat) Possible motion sickness or discomfort on winding roads

Participant Requirements
To ensure your comfort and safety, please note the following: You must be able to walk short distances and enter/exit a vehicle without assistance. Our vehicles are unable to accommodate wheelchairs, or strollers. If you have medical conditions (e.g., heart, mobility, or respiratory issues), please let us know before booking. We welcome participants with language or communication needs. Please let us know in advance — we can provide translated safety info or arrange support where possible. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the season (e.g., sun protection in summer, a jacket in winter).

Safety Briefings
Before your tour begins, your guide will provide a safety briefing covering: Tour-specific risks and emergency procedures What to do in case of illness or injury Any recent changes to weather or conditions
Questions or Concerns?
If you're unsure whether a tour is right for you, please email us at bookings@bayofislandstours.nz or call us. We’re here to help you make an informed and safe decision.