This must-see award winning centre explores the above and below ground 'treasures' of Waitomo by describing the geology, the development of caves, cave life, and limestone (karst) landscapes, as well as how caves are explored and local culture and history through modern and informative displays.

Visitors can also see cave crystals, stalactites and stalagmites, come face to face with moa skeletons, many fossils and a giant ammonite. You can also try some hands on activities, or there is a cave crawl for the more adventurous. A must-see feature for any visitor is the 20 minute multi-media show "Arachnocampa luminosa" that describes the lifecycle of the New Zealand Glowworm.

Described as "A phenomenal job" by David Bellamy and "A wonder!", by Sir Richard Attenborough.

Housed at the centre is the Waitomo Education Service, who provide 'Learning Experiences Outside the Classroom' for all school visits to Waitomo. At no cost to schools, they coordinate school programmes, whether a visit for half a day or a week. Lessons and resources are all free!

The Centre's visitor services also include the Waitomo i-SITE Visitor Information Centre who can book all above and below ground Waitomo activities, along with providing free and impartial information, travel and a great range of local and national accommodation bookings.

The centre also operates a cave and karst library, archives, souvenir shop and post centre.