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Worms That Glow In The Dark
Creepy and cool at the same time.

Waikato, New Zealand: Glow-in-the-dark worms
Nature is really cool. Check out the glow worms in New Zealand. I hope you feel as glowy as these small creatures.
- Cris

Lake Karapiro in the daytime
Look At The Beautiful Stars Worms
Imagine paddling through a beautiful cave. It’s peaceful and quiet. You look up and admire the …worms? I can’t decide if I’m fascinated or grossed out by the idea of paddling underneath a canopy of worms. The worms glow in the dark so…both?
There’s something about being on the water at Lake Karapiro that makes you feel connected to nature in a way few places can. Maybe it’s the mirror-like surface reflecting the rolling green hills or the fact that you’re paddling in a place where Olympic rowers train. But the real magic happens after sunset—when the stars above are outshone by the thousands of glowworms lighting up the cliffs along the Pokaiwhenua Stream.
Lake Karapiro is one of New Zealand’s most stunning freshwater lakes, and kayaking here is the perfect blend of adventure and serenity. Whether you’re gliding over the water in the late afternoon or floating beneath a glowworm-studded canyon at night, the experience is nothing short of breathtaking.
Reading the news makes me want to crawl under a rock or get out gladiator-style battle gear.
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The caves of Lake Karapiro at night
The evening glowworm tour
As dusk settles, you’ll paddle gently into the narrow, hidden waterways of the Pokaiwhenua Stream. Steep, overgrown canyon walls rise on either side, creating a silent, mystical tunnel. And then it happens—the darkness reveals thousands of tiny blue-green lights clinging to the rock face. It’s like drifting through a natural planetarium, except instead of stars, these are living creatures creating an eerie, beautiful spectacle.
Your guide will keep the chatter minimal, letting the sounds of the water and the soft flicker of light work their magic. There’s something humbling about floating silently in this glowing world—it’s peaceful, surreal, and unforgettable. Kayaking at Lake Karapiro offers the best of both worlds: a chance to explore New Zealand’s stunning landscapes by day and experience one of nature’s most unique light shows by night. If you want adventure with a touch of magic, this is a must-do.
Where To Eat (reviews and photos)

3-Hour Food Tasting Walking Tour
I dislike being forced to sit still for hours while course after course of food is placed on the table in front of me. I’m a grazer, happy to munch on small nibbles while washing dishes or going for a walk. That’s true on vacation as well.
The Auckland 3-Hour Food Tasting Walking Tour is ideal for anyone who wants to sample lots of different food, doesn’t want to have to choose from a menu, or prefers to get up and move around between bites. Savour the likes of cumin-rubbed roast lamb or seafood bites with aioli dipping sauce before venturing to your next venue. This tour is not recommended for vegetarians. It is recommended for anyone who likes chocolate!
New Zealand is so much fun. Personally, I think glowing worms are cool but am also happy to leave them in New Zealand.
See you next Wednesday.
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