Waitomo: Illuminating Waitomo, storytelling with purpose.

Waitomo Caves is a renowned rural settlement and tourist village located 19 kilometres northwest of Te Kūiti and home to the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. These caves are operated by Tourism Holdings in partnership with regional hapū, and are among New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions.

 

A visit to Waitomo is a journey into a subterranean wonderland, with deep cultural connection and relevance. We are passionate about this area and have worked to deliver extensive coverage with a focus on cultural integrity and experience - alongside sustainability efforts. Some of our storytelling efforts in Waitomo have focused on science and sustainability efforts including CO₂ management within the caves, native tree riparian planting, the introduction of te reo to guiding so as to enhance cultural experience for visitors, and Matariki (Māori New Year celebrations) in Waitomo.  We also launched the Waitomo Trail Run, now a major event for the Waikato region  - generating national news before and after the event and securing celebrities and influencers like Art Green, Samantha Hayes and Mike McRoberts to take part in the event. These Guys I Know is very proud of our efforts in Waitomo as they demonstrate our creative approach to critical thinking, demonstrating sound understanding of cultural integrity and sustainability initiatives which has resulted in strong storytelling for this special area. 

 

Themes : Tourism, Waikato, Regions, Maori, Culture, Science, Storytelling, Sustainability.

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