Exploring the enchanting realms of Middle-earth and the captivating subterranean landscapes of Waitomo is a dream for many travelers visiting New Zealand. This comprehensive full-day tour from Auckland offers the opportunity to take in the whimsical world of Hobbiton, where the iconic hobbit holes and the charming Green Dragon Inn await. The journey then continues underground, where the awe-inspiring Waitomo Caves and the mesmerizing glow-worm grotto promise to leave a lasting impression. With a private, air-conditioned vehicle and a personalized experience, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to uncover the natural and cinematic wonders of New Zealand.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Full-Day Tours In Auckland.

Key Points

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour From Auckland - Key Points

  • A full-day tour from Auckland covering the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set and the captivating Waitomo Caves, with round-trip transportation provided by Express Tours ANZ.
  • The tour offers a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and includes bottled water, ensuring a hassle-free and personalized touring experience.
  • The Hobbiton Movie Set allows visitors to enjoy the magical world of Middle-earth, while the Waitomo Caves showcase New Zealand’s natural wonders.
  • The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but suitable for most travelers, with some uneven terrain and stairs at the tour sites.
  • Booking is available through Express Tours ANZ, with a tour price starting at $249 per adult and $125 per child, inclusive of GST.

Tour Overview

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour From Auckland - Tour Overview

The Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour from Auckland provides visitors with an opportunity to explore two of New Zealand’s iconic destinations in a single excursion, operated by Express Tours ANZ.

The tour includes round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a hassle-free journey. Along the way, guests will be provided with bottled water to stay hydrated.

The tour also includes the Goods and Services Tax (GST), making it a comprehensive package. Pickup can be arranged from a selected location, with confirmation received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Inclusions

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour From Auckland - Inclusions

Included in the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour are an air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable transportation, private transportation to ensure a personalized experience, bottled water to keep guests hydrated, and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) to provide a comprehensive package.

The air-conditioned vehicle makes the journey more enjoyable, while the private transportation allows guests to explore at their own pace without the constraints of a group tour.

The complimentary bottled water is a thoughtful touch to keep travelers refreshed throughout the day.

The inclusion of the GST ensures the tour price is all-inclusive, so there are no unexpected additional costs.

These inclusions combine to create a seamless and stress-free touring experience.

Pickup Information

Guests can typically select a pickup point when booking the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour from Auckland. Confirmation of the pickup details is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour may offer convenient pickup options from various locations, such as:

  • Central Auckland hotels
  • Auckland Airport
  • Major city landmarks
  • Cruise ship terminals
  • Nearby suburbs

This flexibility ensures that travelers can easily access the tour, no matter their starting point within the Auckland region.

The pre-arranged transportation provides a seamless and stress-free experience, allowing guests to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning landscapes of Hobbiton and the Waitomo Caves.

Accessibility

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour From Auckland - Accessibility

Although the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it does accommodate strollers and is situated close to public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.

Guests will need to navigate some uneven terrain and stairs at the tour sites, so those with mobility concerns may find the experience challenging. However, the tour operator is committed to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants.

With advance notice, they can provide additional assistance or make reasonable accommodations to meet the needs of travelers. The tour is designed to be accessible to the majority of visitors, providing an opportunity to explore these iconic New Zealand destinations.

Tour Type

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour From Auckland - Tour Type

This Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate during the experience. The tour operator, Express Tours ANZ, provides private transportation for the day, ensuring a personalized and exclusive journey to these renowned New Zealand destinations.

The private nature of the tour allows you to:

  • Set your own pace without the constraints of a large group

  • Ask questions and interact freely with the knowledgeable guides

  • Customize the experience to your interests and preferences

  • Enjoy a more intimate atmosphere as you explore Hobbiton and the Waitomo Caves

  • Take photos and create memories without the distraction of other travelers.

Hobbiton Movie Set

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour From Auckland - Hobbiton Movie Set

The Hobbiton Movie Set takes visitors on a captivating journey through the charming Shire, immortalized in the beloved Lord of the Rings and Hobbit film trilogies.

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of New Zealand, this iconic filming location offers a unique opportunity to step into the magical world of hobbits.

Visitors can stroll through the quaint hobbit holes, marvel at the iconic Party Tree, and even enjoy a refreshing beverage at the Green Dragon Inn.

With its meticulous attention to detail and faithful recreation of the cinematic landscape, the Hobbiton Movie Set immerses guests in the enchanting atmosphere of Middle-earth, leaving them with unforgettable memories of this enchanting destination.

Waitomo Caves

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour From Auckland - Waitomo Caves

Nestled deep within the lush, rolling hills of New Zealand’s North Island, the Waitomo Caves captivate visitors with their mesmerizing underground landscapes and unique geological formations.

Visitors can embark on a guided boat tour and witness the enchanting glow-worm grotto, where thousands of tiny luminescent creatures create a magical, starry-like display.

The caves also feature towering limestone formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and stunning cave waterfalls.

Adventurous travelers can even try their hand at black water rafting, floating through the caves on inner tubes and exploring the subterranean wilderness up close.

With its otherworldly beauty and thrilling activities, the Waitomo Caves offer a truly unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore New Zealand’s natural wonders.

  • Glow-worm grotto

  • Towering limestone formations

  • Stalactites and stalagmites

  • Cave waterfalls

  • Black water rafting

Booking and Pricing

Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour From Auckland - Booking and Pricing

Visitors can book the Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves Full Day Tour from Auckland through Express Tours ANZ, which operates the excursion. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation and bottled water, with pickup options available across the city. Prices for the experience start at $249 per adult and $125 per child, subject to Goods and Services Tax (GST) as per New Zealand regulations.

Pickup Point Adult Child
Auckland CBD $249 $125
North Shore $249 $125
South Auckland $249 $125
West Auckland $249 $125
East Auckland $249 $125

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is the Drive From Auckland to Hobbiton?

The drive from Auckland to the Hobbiton Movie Set is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, covering a distance of around 160 kilometers. The scenic journey takes visitors through picturesque countryside and rolling hills in the Waikato region of New Zealand.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes bottled water, but guests are welcome to pack additional snacks or beverages to enjoy during the day.

Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code, but the tour involves walking and exploring outdoor areas. It’s recommended to dress comfortably in casual, weather-appropriate attire and wear comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy the experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

There are generally no age restrictions or requirements for this tour. Children of all ages are typically welcome to participate, as long as they can comfortably handle the activities and terrain. Parental supervision is advised for younger participants.

Can I Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

Yes, travelers can often extend the tour or add additional activities, though this may incur extra fees. It’s best to inquire with the tour operator about customization options and any associated costs before booking.

Recap

This full-day tour from Auckland provides an enchanting and unforgettable experience.

Visitors can explore the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, stroll through the picturesque Shire, and be captivated by the magical underground landscapes of the Waitomo Caves.

With comfortable transportation and a personalized experience tailored to guests’ interests, this tour promises lasting memories of New Zealand’s stunning natural and cinematic wonders.