Rotorua is known for its bubbling mud pools and geothermal marvels — but after dark, a whole new world lights up. Literally. Glow worms in Rotorua are one of the region’s best-kept secrets, and you don’t need to pay for a big tour to enjoy them. From forest gullies to lake-side caves, here’s where to find nature’s own fairy lights on your next Rotorua adventure.
1. Redwoods Forest (Whakarewarewa Forest)
A favourite for both locals and travellers, the Redwoods Forest transforms at night. While the official Treewalk is lit up with lanterns, if you’re on foot, look out for glow worms along shaded lower trails, especially in damp, mossy areas. Visit just after dark and let your eyes adjust — you’ll find glow worm clusters in surprising spots.
2. Lake Rotoiti Caves by Kayak
Hidden in the cliffside around Lake Rotoiti are small caves that come alive with glow worms after sunset. Join a guided kayak tour to access these remote spots safely. The combination of starry skies, silent water, and glowing cave walls makes this one of the most serene night adventures in Rotorua.
Book a glow worm paddle tour →
3. Blue Lake (Lake Tikitapu) Walking Track
While the lake is popular during the day, it has a secret after dark. Take a quiet walk around the track just after nightfall and look out for glow worms near damp, overhanging banks and stream-fed areas. A red-light headlamp will help without disturbing them.
4. Okere Falls – Trout Pool Track
Just past the Okere Falls Store, this short track leads to a scenic section of the Kaituna River. By night, the mossy rock faces along the track hide clusters of glow worms. Easy access and little light pollution make it a perfect free option near Rotorua.
5. Lake Ōkāreka Glow Worm Caves (with Taiao Adventures)
For something truly authentic, head out on a glow worm tour with Taiao Adventures — a locally owned, kaupapa-driven company built on connection, care, and community. These aren’t your cookie-cutter trips. Taiao’s Lake Ōkāreka tours are led by passionate guides who hold a deep respect for the whenua (land), the history of the area, and the stories that have shaped it. Kayak into peaceful caves lit by thousands of glow worms, and experience the magic of Rotorua by night — through the eyes of guides who explore with heart, purpose, and a genuine love for sharing Aotearoa’s natural beauty.
Check out Taiao Adventures → https://www.taiaoadventures.com/
Tips for Spotting Glow Worms in Rotorua
- Head out just after sunset
- Let your eyes adjust for at least 5–10 minutes
- Avoid white lights — use a red filter if using a torch
- Stay quiet and tread gently
- Don’t touch or shine lights directly at glow worms
Glow worms in Rotorua are one of the region’s most underrated natural wonders — and the best part is, many of them are totally free to experience. Whether you’re paddling through lake caves, walking forest trails, or zipping through treetop canopies, Rotorua is full of after-dark magic.
Looking for the ultimate nature experience? Combine your glow worm hunt with a Rotorua Canopy Tours adventure — and see the forest come alive in every sense of the word.