Animal Encounter Waitomo Caves

If you’re on a short timeframe but have 2-4 hours to spare and want to do something beyond the ordinary. You can embark on an ebike journey from Waitomo Caves to the charming town of Otorohanga along the scenic Waitomo Valley Road.
This is a return ride of 30km all on sealed roads and is graded as a grade 1-2 ride. Also although the Waitomo Valley Road does not experience a lot of motor vehicle traffic it does from time to time have tourist buses and vans as well as locals travelling along it. For your safety please keep as far to the left as possible.
Setting off from Waitomo Caves, your ebike becomes your trusty steed, carrying you along a relatively flat road with a small hill-climb in either direction. The road unveils the raw beauty of the Waitomo Valley. As you pedal, the landscape dances around you – rolling and bush clad hills, lush greenery, and the Waitomo Stream that weaves through the terrain like a silver thread.
Once you come to the end of the Waitomo Valley Road you’ll encounter a busy highway. As soon as the road is clear you ride across it onto a narrow road that loops you around to where you will once again cross the busy highway. Once on the other side you then ride across the bridge leading to Otorohanga. At the end of the bridge you turn right onto a cycle and walking trail that runs alongside of the Waipa River. Following the trail around to your right and on pass the Motorhome park and the local High School leads to a highlight of your journey awaiting at the Otorohanga Kiwi House, a haven for native wildlife enthusiasts.
Park your ebike and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of New Zealand's unique flora and fauna. The star of the show, the iconic kiwi bird, takes center stage, captivating you with its charm and rarity. Let your soul connect with these remarkable creatures as they go about their daily routines in a setting that mirrors their natural habitat.
Leaving the Kiwi House behind, you can make your way into the town of Otorohanga. Here you can visit the renowned Haddads clothing store, a true local gem located on the town’s main treet. Here, style meets tradition, offering you a chance to explore a range of quality clothing and accessories that reflect the essence of New Zealand's rugged country clothing scene.
But the journey isn't just about sights; it's a culinary exploration too. The Thirsty Weta, The Big O Cafe and the Fat Kiwi Cafe invite you to savour their sumptuous offerings, from artisanal beverages to mouth-watering treats that satisfy every craving. Pause, indulge, and let the flavours become a part of your memory.
A unique stop at the Otorohanga Railway Station leads you to Origin Coffee, a haven for coffee connoisseurs. As the rich aroma of freshly brewed beans envelops you, take a moment to savour a cup of liquid gold, a testament to the art of crafting the perfect brew.
The essence of Otorohanga unfolds in its diverse culinary scene. From the aromatic spices of Thai cuisine to the rich tapestry of Indian flavours, the delicate artistry of Japanese dishes, and the hearty delights of Turkish cuisine – your taste buds become the travelers, journeying through a world of tastes and traditions.
As your ebike journey comes to an end in Otorohanga you return via the same route back to Waitomo Caves. The ride from Waitomo Caves to Otorohanga is an easy riding route so hop on your ebike and embark on this ride that leaves you with more than just memories – it leaves you with a newfound appreciation for the journey itself.