Waitomo Caves Hotel

Waitomo Caves Hotel is a Victorian structure set on elevated ground near the limestone caves, featuring two stories with verandas that wrap around the building. The property displays an asymmetric design and retains period facades characteristic of early 20th-century New Zealand architecture.

The building began in 1908 as a smaller residential property and was enlarged in 1927 to accommodate growing visitor numbers with additional rooms and dining spaces. This expansion reflected the region's rising appeal as a destination for tourism.

The hotel serves as a gathering place where guests and locals experience a blend of heritage hospitality and the natural wonder of the caves nearby. Its period architecture and design choices reflect the values of early 20th-century New Zealand and how the region developed.

The hotel sits directly near the Waitomo Caves, offering straightforward access to guided underground tours and natural formations that visitors can reach on foot or by short ride. The elevated position provides clear views of the surrounding landscape and helps with navigation.

Film director Guillermo del Toro has cited his time at this property as an influence on his creative work and storytelling approach. This connection between the hotel and international cinema makes it notable for visitors interested in film and artistic inspiration.