From Auckland: Hobbiton & Rotorua Tour With Lunch at Te Puia

Set out on a captivating journey through the enchanting realms of Middle-earth and learn about the rich Maori culture. This comprehensive tour from Auckland promises an unforgettable experience, blending the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set with the breathtaking geothermal wonders of Rotorua’s Te Whakarewarewa Valley. Indulge in a traditional Maori hangi lunch at Te Puia, where you’ll uncover the deep-rooted traditions and captivating storytelling that have shaped this remarkable land. Whether you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings or simply seeking an immersive cultural adventure, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the hidden gems that make New Zealand a truly magical destination.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Auckland.

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Auckland that takes visitors to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, including a traditional Maori hangi lunch.
• The tour includes a 2-hour guided exploration of Hobbiton, a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn, and an immersive experience at the Te Puia Maori Village.
• Transportation is provided via a small, air-conditioned coach with an experienced guide, and pickup is available from central Auckland accommodations.
• The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and has a maximum group size of 15 for a more intimate experience.
• Customers have rated the tour highly, praising the knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and the opportunity to deeply engage with Maori culture and the stunning geothermal landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour from Auckland to the Hobbiton Movie Set and Rotorua costs from $270.02 per person and takes between 10 to 13 hours to complete.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and a reserve now & pay later option.

This small-group tour is limited to 15 participants, providing a more intimate experience.

The tour includes a 2-hour guided exploration of the famous Hobbiton landmarks, a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn, and a traditional Maori hangi lunch at Te Puia.

Guests can also opt to be dropped off in Rotorua at the end of the day.

Itinerary and Experiences

On this tour, visitors enjoy a guided 2-hour exploration of the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, where they can discover iconic landmarks from ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit.’ Afterward, they’ll treat themselves to a complimentary drink at the charming Green Dragon Inn. Next, the tour continues to the Te Puia Maori Village, where guests indulge in a traditional hangi lunch. The journey then takes them to the geothermal wonderland of Te Whakarewarewa Valley, where they can marvel at the Pohutu geyser and bubbling mud pools. Lastly, guests have the option to be dropped off in Rotorua, allowing them to further enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Experience	Duration	Included
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour	2 hours	Guided tour, complimentary drink
Te Puia Maori Village	–	Traditional hangi lunch
Te Whakarewarewa Valley	–	Geothermal activity exploration
Rotorua Drop-Off	–	Option to extend your stay

Transportation and Pick-Up Details

Pickup and drop-off from central Auckland accommodations, including hotels and private addresses, is provided. Visitors travel in a small air-conditioned coach, with an experienced driver/guide offering live commentary in English.

Shuttle pickups from outside Auckland can be arranged for an additional charge. The transportation ensures a comfortable and informative journey.

The small group size allows for a more personalized experience as the driver-guide shares insights about the sights along the way. Those coming from outside Auckland can easily join the tour, with the option to pay a little extra for the shuttle service.

This seamless transportation setup allows guests to sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the Hobbiton and Rotorua adventure.

Important Information and Requirements

Visitors should wear weather-appropriate clothing and sensible footwear, as the tour involves walking on uneven ground at Hobbiton.

Lunch is buffet-style, with morning and afternoon tea available for purchase.

Guests with mobility issues should inform the operator, as the Hobbiton tour requires reasonable mobility.

The tour isn’t suitable for children 2 years and under. A minimum of 4 people or equivalent price is needed for the tour to run.

Ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience is a top priority.

Guests are advised to dress appropriately and disclose any mobility concerns to the operator.

The tour caters to a diverse range of travelers, with the exception of young children, while maintaining a minimum group size to ensure the tour can proceed as scheduled.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers have provided overwhelmingly positive reviews of the Hobbiton & Rotorua Tour, rating it an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 125 reviews.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Knowledgeable and engaging guides who bring the history and culture to life

• Comfortable and efficient transportation, allowing for a seamless experience

• Insightful culture at the Te Puia Maori Village, including a delicious traditional hangi lunch

• Awe-inspiring geothermal wonders in the Te Whakarewarewa Valley, like the iconic Pohutu geyser

• An overall sense of wonder and appreciation for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie sets at Hobbiton

While some feedback noted a rushed pace at Hobbiton, the tour overwhelmingly provides a memorable and enriching journey through New Zealand’s natural and cultural treasures.

Explore Hobbiton, The Lord of the Rings

From Auckland: Hobbiton & Rotorua Tour With Lunch at Te Puia

Journeying through the rolling green hills of New Zealand’s Waikato region, visitors embark on a spellbinding exploration of the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, the real-life filming location that brought the whimsical Shire to life in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’ trilogies.

On this guided tour, they’ll discover the details that made the set so enchanting, from the quaint hobbit holes and lush gardens to the famous Green Dragon Inn.

Along the way, they’ll gain insights into the filmmaking process and the enduring legacy of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy world.

This immersive experience transports visitors into the heart of Middle-earth, leaving them with cherished memories of this iconic destination.

Discover Maori Culture at Te Puia

After exploring the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, the tour takes visitors to the Te Puia Maori Village for a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of New Zealand’s indigenous people.

At Te Puia, guests enjoy a traditional Maori experience, learning about:

• Intricate wood carving techniques passed down through generations

• The significance of the Pohutu geyser, one of the most active in the world

• The preparation and cooking of a hangi, a Maori earth oven meal

• Performances of the haka, a powerful war dance that showcases Maori pride and strength

• The importance of preserving traditional Maori arts, crafts, and language

This cultural excursion provides a deeper appreciation for the vibrant Maori culture that’s integral to New Zealand’s identity.

Geothermal Wonders in Te Whakarewarewa Valley

Following the awe-inspiring Maori cultural experience at Te Puia, visitors then explore the captivating geothermal wonders of the Te Whakarewarewa Valley.

This otherworldly landscape showcases an array of natural geysers, hot springs, and mud pools that have drawn visitors to the region for centuries.

The iconic Pohutu Geyser, one of the largest active geysers in the world, erupts up to 30 meters high, mesmerizing onlookers.

Nearby, boiling mud pools bubble and gurgle, showcasing the immense power of the earth’s internal forces.

Guests marvel at the vibrant colors and dynamic nature of this unique geothermal environment, gaining a deeper appreciation for the geological and cultural significance of this remarkable natural wonder.

Recap

This immersive day tour from Auckland offers a unique opportunity to explore the enchanting world of Middle-earth and discover Maori culture.

Visitors can wander through the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, savor a traditional Maori hangi lunch, and marvel at the geothermal wonders of Te Whakarewarewa Valley.

With comfortable transportation, expert commentary, and a small group experience, this tour provides a memorable adventure through the captivating landscapes of New Zealand.

You can check if your dates are available here: