Private 2 Day Tour: Hobbiton, Waitomo, Rotorua Geothermal & Hamilton Gardens

This private two-day tour from Auckland offers a captivating glimpse into New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. Guests will embark on a journey that immerses them in the enchanting world of Hobbiton, the otherworldly Waitomo Caves, the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, and the stunning landscapes of the Hamilton Gardens. Catering to cruise ship passengers and those with limited time, this customizable itinerary ensures a memorable experience with included amenities and a knowledgeable guide. From the stunning natural beauty to the rich cultural heritage, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on travelers seeking to uncover the unique charm of New Zealand’s top attractions.

This experience made our list of the 9 Best 2 Day Tours In Auckland.

Key Points

• This private two-day tour from Auckland, New Zealand, covers the highlights of Hobbiton, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua geothermal wonders, and Hamilton Gardens.
• The tour includes overnight accommodation, bottled water, snacks, and a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn within Hobbiton.
• Pickup options are available from Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, or Tauranga, and the tour operates seven days a week from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available, and strollers and service animals are permitted.
• The tour starts at $1,395.71 per person, subject to group size, with a non-refundable policy and an overall rating of 4.0 from 5 reviews.

Tour Overview

This private two-day tour from Auckland, New Zealand offers guests an immersive experience, highlighting the country’s iconic Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves, as well as the geothermal wonders of Rotorua and the picturesque Hamilton Gardens.

It’s an ideal option for cruise ship passengers or those with limited time, providing a customizable itinerary to suit individual needs.

Visitors will explore the Hobbit village of Hobbiton, marvel at the Waitomo Caves, discover the geothermal landscapes of Te Puia in Rotorua, and stroll through the stunning Hamilton Gardens.

With an overnight stay, bottled water, and snacks included, this guided tour provides a comprehensive introduction to some of New Zealand’s top attractions.

Inclusions

The tour package includes overnight accommodation, GST (Goods and Services Tax), and bottled water and snacks for the duration of the trip. Plus, a driver/guide is provided, with hotel pickup and drop-off services. Visitors will also enjoy a complimentary drink at the iconic Green Dragon Inn within the Hobbiton movie set.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Overnight accommodation	Food and drinks not specified
GST (Goods and Services Tax)	–
Bottled water and snacks	–
Driver/guide	–
Hotel pickup and drop-off	–
Drink at Hobbiton’s Green Dragon Inn	–

The tour package ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and cultural attractions of New Zealand.

Pickup and Schedule

Pickup points for the private two-day tour can be arranged from Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, or Tauranga. Travelers should confirm their preferred pickup time directly with the local service provider.

The tour operates seven days a week, from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, allowing for flexibility in scheduling.

Whether you’re a cruise ship passenger or just short on time, this comprehensive tour provides a convenient way to experience some of New Zealand’s top attractions. Highlights include the charming Hobbiton movie set, the awe-inspiring Waitomo Caves, and Rotorua’s geothermal wonders.

With a customizable itinerary, the tour can be tailored to suit your individual interests and needs.

Accessibility

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. Strollers are permitted, and service animals are allowed to accompany participants.

The tour location is situated near public transportation options, making it accessible for most travelers to reach. While the tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility, the provider aims to accommodate a range of needs.

Visitors should communicate any accessibility requirements in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

The overall accessibility of the tour allows a diverse group of travelers to explore the highlights of the Auckland region, including the iconic Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves.

Pricing and Reviews

As per the tour details, the starting price for the Private 2 Day Tour: Hobbiton and Waitomo is $1,395.71, which may vary depending on the group size.

However, the tour is non-refundable, and no refunds are provided for cancellations.

Regarding the reviews, the tour has received a total of 5 reviews with an overall rating of 4.0. While the feedback includes some concerns about the service quality and communication with the driver, the tour appears to be generally well-received by past participants.

The price point and non-refundable policy may be a consideration for some travelers, but the overall positive ratings suggest the tour provides a worthwhile experience for those able to secure a booking.

Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves

Situated in the lush, rolling hills of New Zealand’s North Island, Hobbiton and the Waitomo Caves offer visitors a chance to enjoy the magical world of Middle-earth and the stunning natural wonders of the region.

At Hobbiton, guests can explore the iconic film set from the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies, wandering through the quaint Shire and visiting the famous Green Dragon Inn.

Meanwhile, the Waitomo Caves feature an underground labyrinth of limestone formations and the mesmerizing glow-worm caves, where visitors can glide through the darkness on a serene boat ride.

These two captivating destinations provide a unique blend of fantasy and natural beauty that isn’t to be missed on this private tour.

Te Puia Geothermal Valley

Located in the heart of Rotorua, Te Puia Geothermal Valley showcases New Zealand’s impressive volcanic landscape, featuring steaming geysers, boiling mud pools, and culturally significant Māori landmarks.

Visitors can marvel at the iconic Pōhutu Geyser, one of the largest active geysers in the Southern Hemisphere, as it erupts up to 30 meters high. Plus, the valley’s Māori cultural demonstrations and traditional kapa haka performances provide insight into the region’s rich indigenous heritage.

The Te Puia experience offers:

1. Guided tours through the geothermal wonders of the valley

2. Hands-on opportunities to learn traditional Māori crafts and skills

3. Dining options featuring authentic Māori cuisine

Hamilton Gardens

The Hamilton Gardens present a captivating exploration of diverse cultural and thematic garden styles, showcasing the unique heritage and beauty of this renowned botanical attraction.

Visitors can journey through the extensive grounds, discovering a range of exceptional gardens, including the serene Japanese Garden of Contemplation, the ornate Italian Renaissance Garden, and the lush Chinese Scholar’s Garden.

Each meticulously designed space offers a glimpse into different cultural traditions and their horticultural expressions.

With its well-maintained pathways, striking architecture, and vibrant plantings, the Hamilton Gardens provide a delightful and enriching experience for nature enthusiasts and those seeking to enjoy the horticultural wonders of New Zealand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit additional sites. The provider allows modifications to the itinerary to suit the traveler’s interests and time constraints, within the tour’s overall duration and pricing structure.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Three Days?

There’s no mention of a 3-day tour option in the provided information. However, the tour is described as customizable, so it’s possible to inquire about extending the tour duration. The local provider would need to be contacted to discuss this possibility.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Driver/Guide?

You can request a specific type of driver/guide for this tour. The local provider can accommodate preferences for guide expertise, language, or other needs. However, this may impact the overall tour price and availability.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The tour provider may offer discounts for group bookings or package deals when combining multiple tours. Customers should inquire about any available promotions or bundled pricing options when making their reservation.

What Is the Payment Policy, and Can I Make a Deposit?

The payment policy is non-refundable, and no deposits are accepted. Full payment is required at the time of booking. Customers should review the policy carefully before making a reservation.

Recap

This two-day private tour from Auckland promises an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s iconic destinations.

Travelers will enjoy the enchanting Hobbiton, the captivating Waitomo Caves, the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, and the stunning Hamilton Gardens.

With personalized attention, comfortable accommodations, and the convenience of a tailored itinerary, this tour offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of New Zealand.