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Wai Dome O Nook

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Wai Dome O Nook

Waitomo, Waikato


Wai Dome O Nook is 5 minutes from Waitomo township in the Waikato and just over two hours drive from Auckland. It's just a few minutes away from one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions – the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Also on the same property is Wai Dome O Point and Wai Dome O Peak.

Encaptured by native bush and farmland hills, The Nook offers a peaceful studio cabin retreat with every modern amenity beautifully contained under one roof. Step outside to discover your own outdoor bath oasis, where you can soak under the stars with the Milky Way stretching brilliantly overhead on clear nights, or wake to the symphony of native birdsong at dawn.

Your days here are filled with the gentle rhythm of quietness – curious cattle may graze the lawn right outside, tūī sing amidst the bush, and colourful pheasants dart across the paddocks. The sunsets are simply glorious, painting the entire sky in vivid hues, while sunrises offer a natural wake-up call in shades of orange and gold.

This is where you can escape the everyday and reconnect with nature, all while keeping all of Waitomo's adventures conveniently close by.

Children aged 7+ only

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Eating and drinking near Escape

EATING AND DRINKING

Wai Dome O Nook is self-catering. Just bring your own food, and cook meals using the two-burner induction cooktop provided in your kitchen. You'll find all the cutlery, crockery, pots and pans that you'll need.

If you want a break from cooking at any stage, The Tomo Bar & Eatery is an authentic kiwi pub with appetising food and a cosy atmosphere. There is also the HUHU Cafe, a great option for coffee and lunch. Both are only a 5-minute drive away.

The nearest store for stocking up on food and supplies is in Otorohanga, 18 minutes away.

Things to do near Escape

THINGS TO DO

Relaxation and rejuvenation find you here. Soak up the view while soaking in the luxurious bathtub and watch the sky turn shades of pink and purple as the sun sets over the land, or take a stroll through the surrounding bush.

If you feel like being adventurous, the Waitomo District has so much to offer.

Explore the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves just a 5-minute drive away. Take a guided boat ride through the grotto and watch the cave come to life.

Walk the Mangapohue Natural Bridge and admire the 25-million-year-old fossilised oysters in the limestone arches (just a 20-minute drive away).

The Marokopa Falls, near the Mangapohue Natural Bridge, is another unique local experience. The 35m high waterfall is described as the most beautiful in the country. The Piripiri Caves is also open to the general public to explore (30 minutes away).

Blackwater rafting, abseiling, ziplining, caving and rock climbing are all available in the area.

For some pampering, massages at the cabin can be organised via Tanzanite Beauty. Natasha Johnston, a certified massage therapist, is available for both couples and individuals. You can find out more and get in touch with Natasha from her Facebook page here.

Board games are provided at the cabin.

Your hosts at Escape

YOUR HOSTS

Christen and Katie, along with their two young sons and Olaf the sausage dog, are your hosts at Wai Dome O Nook.

The farm has been in Christen's family since the early 1900s. Christen’s father, Peter, was also heavily involved in the caving world and setting up the local museum. Now with the land passed to Christen and Katie’s ownership, they've created a new tourism venture including Wai Dome O Nook, Wai Dome O Peak and Wai Dome O Point.

Living in a truly stunning part of the country, with backgrounds working in tourism, it was a natural step for Katie and Christen to share what they have for guests to enjoy.

Wai Dome O is a play on the place name 'Waitomo'.

TESTIMONIALS

“ ”

George De Meo- 2026-03-30

9 / 9

“ The Nook was beautifully presented and it had everything we needed. Instructions were clear and we were grateful for information folder. Very happy! ”

Tia Donkers- 2026-05-25

1 / 9

“ Tucked away on a farm with great privacy, very new and tidy. Super close to Waitomo Caves and the village. Loved the outdoor bath. Good facilities and comfy bed. My partner and I loved our weekend here. ”

Jarred van Gysen- 2026-05-13

2 / 9

“ The hosts, Katie and Chris, were highly communicative and provided clear instructions on navigation to the nook. The Nook was extremely clean and well prepared upon our arrival. This was a one of a kind place, and I highly recommend. ”

Ryan Goodridge- 2026-05-08

3 / 9

“ We had a really lovely weekend away and this was the perfect location to just relax, enjoy the surroundings, leaving the stress of life behind. Thanks so much to Katie and Chris, you really do have a hidden gem. ”

Liz Reed- 2026-04-27

4 / 9

“ Brilliant location and wonderful setting, we would definitely return. ”

Kylie Deece- 2026-04-18

5 / 9

“ Loved the Nook, great set up, easy clear instructions, everything we needed for our stay, and the setting is just perfect. ”

Steve Hughson- 2026-04-12

6 / 9

“ It’s my boyfriend and my first time experiencing glamping. It’s an amazing environment and awesome atmosphere as well. We are very lucky to have a bunch of cows on the other side of the fence to accompany us through the day. Good for chilling and escaping. Recommended for two nights at least for a better experience. ”

Qiyun Li- 2026-04-09

7 / 9

“ Amazing place to relax, excellent setting, facilities, and hosts, with lovely extra touches. We will be staying here again for sure. ”

Kirsty Horne- 2026-04-02

8 / 9

“ ”

George De Meo- 2026-03-30

9 / 9

“ The Nook was beautifully presented and it had everything we needed. Instructions were clear and we were grateful for information folder. Very happy! ”

Tia Donkers- 2026-05-25

1 / 9

Scenic coastal landscape viewed through a golden tent opening, showing lush green hillside with forest line meeting turquoise ocean waters under clear blue sky

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