About Down to Earth Eco Cave Tours

We’re the Boddie family, and by some twist of fate, we’ve discovered a truly rare ecosystem across our family farm — where native forest, waterways, and glowworm-lit caves are all part of one connected landscape.

We’re the fourth generation to call this special place home, and for us, it’s not just somewhere we work — it’s something we’re responsible for.

Every tour we run helps fund the ongoing restoration of our land through the Pākehō Restoration Project. From native planting and pest control to protecting waterways and unique cave systems, this work is part of everything we do.

It’s how we ensure this landscape not only remains untouched — but continues to thrive, so it can be shared for generations to come.

8000+

native trees planted

3000

5-star reviews

22000+

visitors welcomed

10+

years of operation

Our Family Tree

Great Great Grandad James

Back in the late 1800s, our Great Great Grandfather James Boddie made the incredible journey from Scotland to New Zealand with his wife Isabella and their ten kids.

Picture this – no internet, no in-flight entertainment, and certainly no flights! It must’ve been quite the adventure. James started out as a farmer, then ventured into business, and even tried his hand at politics, becoming Te Kuiti's first-ever mayor in 1910.

Great Grandad Henry

James' third son, Henry (or Harry), was one of the early pioneers who settled in the Waitomo District in 1912. Together with his family, Harry faced the huge task of clearing land for farming, all without the modern machinery we have today. It’s incredible to think about the hard work they put in.

Grandad Gordon

Harry’s eldest son, our Grandfather Gordon Boddie, grew up right here on the farm. Gordon went to the local school and was a part of the vibrant Pākeho community. He passed away in 1991, passing the land on to his two sons.

Our Dad Bevian

Gordon’s youngest son, Bevian, has some of the best stories from his childhood adventures exploring the caves – with candles and some very "creative" equipment!

While we’ve swapped those tools for safer options these days, we still love hearing his stories. Though Bevian’s retired now, he’s never too far away. If something needs fixing, he’s the first one to jump in. This land is in his blood.

Down to Earth Today

Today, the farm is in the hands of Bevian’s son, Stefan, and his wife, Michelle — the fourth generation of the Boddie family to care for this land in Pākehō.

In 2015, we decided to share our little slice of paradise with visitors from around the world. It’s been incredible to see how much people connect with this place — and how much they value experiencing it in its natural state.

We feel incredibly lucky to be surrounded by this landscape every day, and even more so to be able to share it — while continuing the work to protect and restore it long into the future.

Our Story