Private Tour [2 Days]: Waitomo Caves & Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Embark on an enchanting 2-day adventure through the captivating landscapes of New Zealand with this private tour to Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set. Explore the otherworldly formations and vibrant glow worms of the Glow Worm and Ruakuri Caves, then step into the cinematic world of the Hobbiton Movie Set for a guided tour. Enjoy the comfort of a 4-star hotel stay and a delightful buffet lunch, all while enjoying the natural and cinematic wonders that make this tour an unforgettable experience. Uncover the details that make this private tour stand out from the rest, and discover why it’s a must-add to your New Zealand itinerary.

Key Points

• This 2-day private tour from Auckland covers the Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set, including admission and guided experiences.
• The tour provides accommodation in a 4-star hotel with breakfast, and a 2.5-hour guided Hobbiton experience with a buffet lunch.
• Visitors can explore the stunning Waitomo Glow Worm Caves and Ruakuri Cave, with year-round comfortable temperatures and limited photography allowed.
• The Hobbiton Movie Set tour offers memorable photo opportunities in front of the Hobbit homes, with a guided-only experience.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and reasonable mobility is required, especially for the cave experiences.

Tour Overview and Inclusions

Covering Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set, this private 2-day tour from Auckland, New Zealand includes fully guided private return transfers, luxurious air-conditioned transportation, and a local English-speaking tour escort throughout the journey.

Guests will enjoy admission to the iconic Waitomo Glow Worm Cave and Ruakuri Cave experiences, complete with a boat ride on an underground stream.

The tour also includes a 2.5-hour guided Hobbiton experience with a buffet lunch and complimentary beverages.

Accommodation is provided in a 4-star hotel on a twin-sharing basis, including breakfast.

Cave Experiences

Guests can marvel at the stunning stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the iconic Glow Worm Caves.

They’ll then explore the picturesque Ruakuri Cave, where photography is permitted to capture the cave’s natural wonders.

These cave experiences maintain a comfortable year-round temperature of 16-17°C, making them a refreshing respite even in the summer heat.

While no photography is allowed in the Glow Worm Caves, guests can expect to be mesmerized by the glistening glow worms that line the cave walls and ceilings.

With good handrails and paths, the caves are accessible to those with reasonable mobility, though wheelchair access isn’t available.

Hobbiton Movie Set Experience

Visitors can wander through the iconic Hobbit holes and Bagshot Row, marveling at the remarkable views of the Kaimail Ranges. The 2.5-hour guided Hobbiton experience allows guests to enjoy the enchanting world of Middle-earth. They’ll have the opportunity to capture memorable photos in front of the quaint Hobbit homes. The tour is guided-only, with no self-guided options available. Umbrellas are provided in case of rain, as the tours operate in all weather conditions.

Experience	Duration	Inclusions
Hobbiton Movie Set	2.5 hours	Guided tour, Buffet lunch, Beverages (ale, cider, ginger beer, English dark beer)
Photo opportunities	–	In front of Hobbit holes
Tour Type	Guided	No self-guided options
Weather	All conditions	Umbrellas provided
Photography	Permitted	Memorable photos

Meeting and Pickup Information

The tour starts at 6:30 AM, with pickup options available or a direct meeting point at the Mövenpick Hotel Auckland. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

For families, children under 8 must use child safety seats, while ages 5-7 are recommended for booster seats. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and strollers must be collapsible.

Guests should wear comfortable clothing, walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a camera. Those 18 and older with valid ID can consume the included alcoholic beverages, but no large bags are allowed in the caves.

The tour is non-refundable, and cancellations result in no refund.

Additional Information and Recommendations

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and strollers must be collapsible.

Comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended.

Guests 18 and older with valid ID can consume the included alcoholic beverages, but no large bags are allowed in the caves.

The tour is suitable for all ages and average fitness, with short, optional scenic walks.

Reasonable mobility is required to access the caves, as they have good handrails and paths, but no wheelchair access.

Photography isn’t permitted in the Glow Worm Caves, and the caves maintain a comfortable temperature year-round.

The tour is non-refundable, and cancellations result in no refund.

Tour Highlights

Explore the captivating Waitomo Glow Worm Caves, where visitors marvel at the twinkling lights reflected in the underground waterways.

Venture into the majestic Ruakuri Cave, where stunning limestone formations and exceptional photography opportunities await.

The Hobbiton Movie Set transports you into the whimsical world of Middle-earth, allowing you to:

• Wander through Hobbit holes and Bagshot Row

• Capture memorable photos in front of iconic settings

• Indulge in a delicious buffet lunch with complimentary beverages

• Discover the remarkable attention to detail that brought the films to life

• Enjoy the serene beauty of the Kaimai Ranges backdrop

This private, two-day tour provides an enchanting blend of natural wonders and cinematic magic, creating an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Those embarking on this tour may have some common questions regarding the experience.

What’s the proper attire for visiting the caves and Hobbiton? Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as there are short, optional scenic walks involved.

Can cameras be used in the caves? Photography isn’t permitted in the Glow Worm Caves, but cameras can be used in the Ruakuri Cave.

Will the tour still operate in inclement weather? Yes, the Hobbiton experience provides umbrellas in case of rain, and the tours continue in all weather conditions.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Unfortunately, this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and strollers must be collapsible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Tips Expected for the Tour Guide and Driver?

Tips for the tour guide and driver are not included in the tour price and are generally optional. Guests may choose to tip at their discretion based on the quality of service provided.

Can Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated for the Hobbiton Lunch?

Yes, the tour provider can accommodate dietary requirements for the Hobbiton lunch, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Guests should inform the provider of any special dietary needs when booking the tour.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

No, you don’t need to bring your own water and snacks. The tour includes complimentary refreshments, and a buffet lunch is provided at the Hobbiton Movie Set. All your food and drink needs are taken care of during the tour.

Can I Purchase Photos Taken by the Tour Photographer?

Photos taken by the tour photographer can be purchased at the end of the Hobbiton Movie Set experience. There’s an on-site retail shop where you can buy digital and physical copies of your memorable tour photos.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour for Just My Group?

Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a private tour just for your group. This will provide a more personalized experience with a dedicated tour guide and transportation. Additional fees may apply for this upgrade.

Recap

This private 2-day tour of Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set offers an enchanting experience in New Zealand’s natural and cinematic wonders.

Travelers can marvel at the glow worm caves, explore the iconic Hobbiton set, and enjoy a comfortable hotel stay, creating an unforgettable journey through the country’s breathtaking landscapes and renowned movie locations.