Guided excursions to observe bioluminescent titiwai creatures in New Zealand
Experience the enchantment of New Zealand's unique glow-worms, known locally as titiwai, with the Titiwai Glow-worm Tours in Wellington. These night-time expeditions offer a captivating journey through the native forest areas of Wellington Botanic Garden and Ōtari-Wilton's Bush, where you can witness these bioluminescent creatures illuminating their natural surroundings.
The Titiwai Glow-worm Tours are operated by the Friends of Wellington Botanic Garden and are suitable for nature and wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. The tours take place twice a night, starting at either 7pm or 8pm, and run for approximately an hour.
Visitors will meet at the Founders' entrance to Wellington Botanic Garden, located on Glenmore Street, and will be accompanied by knowledgeable guides who will share insights about the ecology of glow-worms and other nocturnal wildlife found in these forest habitats.
The glow-worm larvae are suspended in a hammock-like mucous tube, creating a mesmerising sight as they emit their bioluminescent fluid when disturbed. New Zealand is also home to another glow-in-the-dark invertebrate called Octochaetus multiporu, a deep-burrowing earthworm that grows up to 30 cm in length.
The tours are scheduled events, with an example given for an event on August 15th, 2025, at Ōtari-Wilton’s Bush. Participants should prepare for an outdoor night walk, which may involve uneven terrain and cooler nighttime temperatures. It is recommended to bring a torch, an umbrella if it's raining, and your ticket for the tour.
Children aged 7 years and older are most suited for this tour. Ticketing and scheduling details can be found on the official Eventbrite page at [www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/glow-in-the-dark-titiwai-tours-new-zealand-glow-worms-tickets-865228270047](www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/glow-in-the-dark-titiwai-tours-new-zealand-glow-worms-tickets-865228270047).
For the most current details on tour dates, booking information, and availability, it is recommended to check local Wellington event listings, the Wellington Botanic Garden, or the Ōtari-Wilton's Bush official websites. The tours will run if it's raining, and no transfers or refunds are given due to weather unless it is cancelled due to dangerous conditions.
Join the Titiwai Glow-worm Tours and immerse yourself in the magical world of glow-worms and other nocturnal wildlife found in Wellington's reserves. This unforgettable experience promises to be both educational and awe-inspiring.
Participants can explore the magical world of glow-worms and other nocturnal wildlife by joining Titiwai Glow-worm Tours, which combine the beauty of home-and-garden settings (Wellington Botanic Garden and Ōtari-Wilton's Bush) with an engaging lifestyle pursuit for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. After the tour, visitors may reflect on the unique bioluminescent creatures they’ve encountered and consider integrating future visits to these reserves into their home-and-garden time.
