You’ve heard of white water rafting, but what about black water rafting? This uniquely New Zealand experience is a must-do for anyone who loves an off-the-beaten-path adventure. It starts at around 200 bucks per person, but I’d argue it’s more than worth it and the best way to explore the beautiful Waitomo glow worm caves. Here’s everything you need to know before adding this incredible activity to your New Zealand itinerary or bucket list.
This post may contain affiliate links. Booking through these links generates a small commission for me at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!
What is black water rafting, exactly?
Just as white water rafting describes a fast-flowing river and rapids, this black water rafting adventure will have you navigating the dark (i.e. black) rushing rivers that flow through the depths of the caves. The water is sparkling clean though — only “black” because you’re down there with nothing but a head torch. It’s honestly so much fun, and Waitomo is home to the best glow worm caves in New Zealand so get amongst it.
One notable difference to clarify is that black water rafting doesn’t actually involve any rafts. But you do get an inflatable tube that you’ll use to float down the caves’ glow worm-covered chambers. It’s a fast-paced activity, and you’ll do a bit of climbing, jumping, swimming, and even abseiling if you book the 5-hour excursion.
Travel essentials for New Zealand
📶 eSIM
Stay connected with internet access everywhere you travel.
💸 TravelSpend
Track your budget easily (ft. a colourful doughnut chart with stats).
✈️ Seats.aero
Find and book flights with your points for Aeroplan, Qantas, Delta & more.
💳 Wise or Revolut
Compare the best multicurrency cards for spending when you're overseas.
How to book the black water rafting experience & total cost
There are three different black water rafting tours to choose from: two with the Legendary Black Water Rafting Co., and one new option with The Waitomo Experience. I did the Black Labyrinth, so let’s start there.
Black Labyrinth 3 hour excursion 193 NZD: This is the one to pick if you’re not totally sure how much you’ll like black water rafting but want to give it a try. It’s also the more budget-friendly option, and still epic.
Black Abyss 5 hour excursion 322 NZD: This is for the hardcore explorers. It includes some abseiling and a zipline that the Labyrinth tour doesn’t have, so while it’s significantly more expensive, it’s a lot of bang for your buck! I did the Labyrinth but wish I’d just spent more to do this one. (There’s always next time!)
Okohua Glow Worm Cave Tour 3 hour experience 230 NZD: This option combines glow worm-lit caves and black water rafting with the ultimate reward — a relaxing soak in a cedar hot pool overlooking native bush. It’s the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
What you need to enjoy black water rafting
Black water rafting is one of many once-in-a-lifetime experiences in New Zealand. But if you’re not yet convinced it’s for you, here’s what you need:
- A reasonable level of fitness. For reference, I am not “fit” and I was fine.
- Confidence in your ability to swim. Though you’ll always have your tube and the water isn’t very deep.
- Be over the age of 12. Even if accompanied by an adult — this isn’t an activity for small children.
- Weigh at least 45 kilos/100 pounds. Again, to deter small children from entering a rushing cave river.
- Comfortable in a cave. If you’re claustrophobic, this probably isn’t for you. Same for if you’re afraid of worms that glow. And I won’t lie to you, there are eels in the water, but they mind their own business.
Tips for what to bring black water rafting
- A swimsuit. Something comfortable for under your wet suit.
- A towel to dry off after the experience. They also have showers if you want to bring soap and shampoo etc.
- Your booking details. It’s becoming a popular activity, so it’s very unlikely they’ll be able to slot you in even if it’s a weekday. Book in advance!
- A sense of humour and a good attitude. The guides are super outgoing, make lots of jokes, and are there to have a good time. You’ll want to match that energy. And on that note, you’ll want to bring…
- A LOT of energy. The whole thing is very go-go-go, so arrive ready for a full-on day!
Things NOT to bring black water rafting
- They don’t let you film in the cave — not even a GoPro or digital camera. It’s dark in there anyway and it would be hard to get anything that looks good. The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co. guides take photos for you along the way, which you can pay for later. The Okohua Cave Tour offers free photos.
- The tour companies provide all the equipment. This includes a helmet, wet suit, water socks/boots, and a head torch. So you’ll be kitted out and don’t have to worry about a thing!
All the cave photos are pretty mid, but black water rafting is more about the experience!
When to go black water rafting
The caves are open year-round and the water is going to be just as cold no matter when you go. I recommend booking a whole weekend in Waitomo to explore the caves and other stuff nearby like Marokopa Falls and the natural bridge.
There’s really no bad time to visit the Waitomo glow worm caves. That said, the trip can sometimes be cancelled if there’s been a lot of rain, and New Zealand winters (from May to August) can be very wet. Cancellation is pretty rare, but an important safety precaution.
If you can time your visit in the summer, definitely do that. Though be aware peak summer (December to February) overlaps with the school holidays and things can book out. I went in October (kinda shoulder season) and it was perfectly fine, but I was still super cold walking back to the change rooms.
Naomi Lai
Naomi is a Canadian travel editor and writer with 13 years of international travel across Southeast Asia, Europe, South America, New Zealand, and beyond. She covers everything from budget backpacking to luxury travel — always from personal experience.
More about Naomi →