Sharing our caves with the world

Journey into the caves with us and become part of our world at Waitomo. By seeing them through our eyes, you will soon love them as we do.

As local cavers, our small, family-owned business brings more than 35 years of experience to developing and operating cave tours in Waitomo. Our journey began in 1987 when Peter Chandler launched the original Black Water Rafting adventure tour. Mangawhitikau Tours was added to the Black Water Rafting lineup in 1999. Following the sale of Black Water Rafting in 2003, Peter and Libby focused on developing Spellbound tours at Mangawhitikau.

Over the years, we have continuously innovated to create some of Waitomo’s most cherished caving experiences. Today, through our Spellbound eco tours, we remain dedicated to delivering exceptional quality and unmatched value, proudly offering visitors a truly immersive connection to the subterranean world we love.

Backing us up, our local guides enthusiastically share the same knowledge, enthusiasm and care.

We bring you these caves in partnership with the Mason Family and Graymont Quarry, the cave’s owners. The cave of the Spirit is now protected under a QE2 covenant. The Spellbound Glowworm Cave is a part of Mangawhitikau Cave, a significant cave of New Zealand and a national treasure.

We would also like to acknowledge Ngati Kinohaku the land’s traditional owners, with whom we share a warm friendship. Their contribution of a pou (traditional way marker), their knowledge and support are greatly appreciated.

Spellbound belongs to ACKMA (Australasian Caves and Karst Management Association) and ISCA(International Show Caves Association). We are Qualmark endorsed. Pete received a New Zealand Order of Merit for his contribution to New Zealand tourism, and a New Zealand Walking Access Award for his contribution to the Te Araroa Trail in the Waikato. Son Kieran is a NZOIA Senior Cave Instructor and is a technical advisor and safety auditor for a number of caving activity providers around New Zealand,