Discover the enchanting world of Middle-earth and the natural marvels of New Zealand on this captivating full-day tour. Explore the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, stroll through beautifully decorated hobbit holes, and step inside the charming Green Dragon Inn. Then, embark on a mesmerizing boat ride through the bioluminescent Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you’ll be awestruck by the stunning formations and twinkling lights. With convenient hotel pickups and a range of included amenities, this small group adventure promises an unforgettable experience. But the real magic happens when you…
Key Points
- This comprehensive day trip from Auckland offers a guided tour of the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set and a boat ride through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
- The tour includes hotel pickups, transportation via Cheeky Kiwi Travel minivan, and a scenic drive through the Waikato countryside with photo stops.
- The Hobbiton Movie Set tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore 44 hobbit holes and landmarks from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
- The Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour features a 45-minute boat ride through the bioluminescent grotto, as well as a guided exploration of the cave formations.
- The tour is priced at $225.52 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and is suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Auckland: Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Small Group Tour offers a comprehensive day trip from Auckland, priced from $225.52 per person.
The tour lasts 13 hours and provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also choose the reserve now and pay later option.
The tour includes pickup from various locations in Auckland, a scenic drive through the Waikato countryside, and visits to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
Visitors will enjoy a guided tour of Hobbiton, a 45-minute glowworm grotto boat ride, and a lunch stop at a Waitomo homestead.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Auckland.
Pickup and Itinerary Details
From select locations across Auckland, including the Crowne Plaza and Hilton hotels, visitors are picked up by the Cheeky Kiwi Travel minivan for this immersive tour.
Passengers should be ready at their designated pickup spot 10 minutes before the scheduled time, as delays are possible during the journey.
Along the way, the scenic drive through the Waikato countryside provides opportunities for photo stops at landmarks like Lake Karapiro and Otorohanga.
The tour itinerary is well-organized, allowing participants to fully experience the highlights of Hobbiton and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves without any rushed or disjointed transitions.
Hobbiton Movie Set Experience
After the scenic drive through the Waikato countryside, visitors arrive at the Hobbiton Movie Set – the iconic filming location from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
This 2.5-hour guided tour immerses guests in the whimsical world of Middle-earth, allowing them to:
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Explore the charming 44 hobbit holes, complete with fully decorated interiors
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Stroll through the lush gardens and iconic landmarks like the Party Tree and Mill
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Enjoy a refreshing beverage at the famous Green Dragon Inn, just as the hobbits did
The attention to detail and preservation of the movie set create an unforgettable experience, transporting visitors into the magical realm of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy novels.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour
Following the Hobbiton adventure, the tour takes visitors to the renowned Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where they’ll embark on a guided tour and witness the mesmerizing display of bioluminescent glowworms adorning the cave’s ceilings and walls.
During the 45-minute boat ride, travelers will float in silence, captivated by the ethereal glow of thousands of glowworms.
The tour also includes exploring the cave’s impressive formations, such as stalagmites and stalactites.
After the cave tour, the group will stop for lunch at a Waitomo homestead, providing a chance to refuel and reflect on the day’s incredible experiences.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyIncluded Amenities and Services
The tour includes a variety of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and seamless experience for visitors.
Passengers can enjoy the convenience of hotel pickups and drop-offs, allowing them to relax and focus on the day’s activities.
The tour also provides:
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Entry and guided tours of both the Hobbiton Movie Set and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, ensuring visitors get the most out of these iconic attractions.
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Refreshments and snacks during the drive, keeping everyone energized and hydrated throughout the day.
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Charging ports in the vehicles, allowing travelers to keep their devices powered up and stay connected.
These thoughtful inclusions contribute to the overall enjoyment and ease of the Hobbiton and Waitomo adventure.
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Important Health and Safety
Certain health and mobility considerations are important for this tour. The Hobbiton and Waitomo tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or serious health issues that could impact their ability to fully participate in the activities.
Guests should be able to walk on uneven terrain, navigate steps, and board boats for the Waitomo Glowworm Caves experience. Plus, children under 8 years old will require a child safety seat, which can be rented.
Travelers are encouraged to review the tour’s requirements and assess their own fitness level before booking. The tour operator’s top priority is ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants.
Recommended Items for Guests
Travelers are advised to bring a few key items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Tour. A valid passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing are essential for navigating the tour’s various activities and outdoor environments.
Other recommended items include:
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Sunglasses and a sun hat to protect against the elements
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A camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and iconic movie sets
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Snacks or a light lunch, as the tour includes a stop but doesn’t provide a full meal
These items will help maximize the comfort and convenience of the tour, allowing guests to fully enjoy the magical world of Hobbiton and the natural wonders of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
Customer Ratings and Feedback
According to customer reviews, the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with an impressive 4.8 out of 5 rating based on 326 reviews.
Reviewers consistently highlight the tour’s knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary as key strengths. Guests praise the seamless coordination, from the convenient hotel pickups to the smooth transitions between the Hobbiton and Waitomo attractions.
Many note that the tour provides a perfect balance of iconic sights, immersive experiences, and scenic drives through the picturesque Waikato countryside.
Recap
This enchanting Auckland tour offers a perfect blend of Middle-earth magic and natural wonders.
Guests can explore the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, then marvel at the bioluminescent Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
With convenient hotel pickups, delightful experiences, and countless positive reviews, it’s no wonder this tour is a popular choice for visitors to Auckland.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tours in Auckland
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