Private Tour: Hobbiton Movie Set & Hamilton Gardens Experience

Set out on a captivating private tour that combines the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set with the stunning Hamilton Gardens. Fans of Middle-earth and nature lovers alike can explore iconic locations like the charming hobbit holes and the picturesque Party Tree, while enjoying scenic views of the Waikato region. This full-day excursion includes a guided tour, lunch, and a self-guided audio tour, ensuring an immersive experience. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or seeking a unique adventure, this tour promises to transport you to a world of magic and wonder.

Key Points

• This private tour combines visits to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set and the beautiful Hamilton Gardens, providing a unique blend of Middle-earth magic and natural wonder.
• Guests will explore Hobbiton’s famous hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and the Party Tree, with a knowledgeable guide offering behind-the-scenes insights.
• The tour includes lunch at the Hamilton Gardens Café and a self-guided audio tour through the themed gardens, such as the Italian Renaissance and Japanese Garden.
• The tour offers complimentary amenities like water, refreshments, umbrellas, and stroller accessibility, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
• The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with about 75% of the terrain being wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to a wide range of participants.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This private tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set and Hamilton Gardens from Auckland offers visitors an immersive experience into the enchanting world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies, combined with the serene beauty of Hamilton Gardens’ globally-inspired landscaping.

Explore the iconic Hobbiton movie set, including hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and the Party Tree.

Then, discover the stunning Hamilton Gardens, which showcase global garden history.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the Waikato region and gain fascinating behind-the-scenes insights from the knowledgeable tour guide.

This comprehensive experience provides the perfect blend of Middle-earth magic and natural wonder.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour package includes a fully guided private return transfer from Auckland, with hotel pickup and drop-off for the convenience of participants. Complimentary refreshments and water are provided onboard the luxurious, air-conditioned minibus equipped with high-speed internet and WiFi. Plus, a local English-speaking tour escort accompanies guests throughout the experience.

Inclusions	Amenities
Admission to Hobbiton Movie Set (2-hour guided tour)	Themed Hamilton Gardens self-guided audio tour
Lunch at Hamilton Gardens Café	Umbrella provided for rain
Complimentary water and refreshments	Stroller accessible; collapsible prams allowed

The tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience, ensuring participants can fully enjoy the highlights of Hobbiton and Hamilton Gardens without any hassle.

Meeting and Pickup Information

To begin the tour, participants can meet at the Mövenpick Hotel Auckland located at 8 Customs Street East in the Auckland CBD. Alternatively, they can request a pickup from their hotel, which the tour provider will accommodate.

The tour ends back at the same meeting point, ensuring a seamless start and finish. Guests are advised to arrive at the designated meeting time of 6:30 am, as the tour departs promptly.

Whether choosing to meet at the hotel or requesting a pickup, the tour escort will be on hand to welcome guests and provide a smooth transition into the day’s adventures at Hobbiton and Hamilton Gardens.

Participant Requirements and Recommendations

Suitable for all ages, the tour requires an average fitness level.

Comfortable clothing and sensible footwear are recommended, and participants should bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty.

While umbrellas are provided for rainy conditions, those 18 and older with valid photo ID may consume alcohol at the Green Dragon Inn on the Hobbiton set.

Strollers and collapsible prams are allowed, though about 75% of the terrain is wheelchair accessible.

The tour features uneven ground, but the guides ensure a seamless experience for all.

Whether you’re a Lord of the Rings fan or simply seeking a unique adventure, this private tour offers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience in the lush Waikato region.

Booking and Review Information

With a starting price from $601.51 and a lowest price guarantee, this private tour offers excellent value for money.

While it’s non-refundable and no cancellations are permitted, the tour has received an impressive 5.0-star rating based on a single review with no negative feedback.

Travelers can easily book this experience, which includes full-day guided transfers from Auckland, admission to the Hobbiton Movie Set and Hamilton Gardens, and a lunch at the Hamilton Gardens Café.

The tour’s combination of iconic filming locations, beautiful gardens, and seamless logistics make it an appealing choice for those seeking a comprehensive Lord of the Rings and Waikato region experience.

Exploring Hobbiton Movie Set

Visitors frequently enjoy the enchanting world of Hobbiton, exploring the iconic hobbit holes, lush gardens, and charming details that brought J.R.R. Tolkien’s literary masterpieces to life on the silver screen. Guided by knowledgeable tour escorts, guests wander through the quaint village, marveling at the intricate craftsmanship of the hobbit holes and the verdant landscapes. From the iconic Party Tree to the beloved Green Dragon Inn, each stop on the tour offers a glimpse into the beloved Shire. The attention to detail is truly remarkable, transporting visitors into the heart of Middle-earth and leaving them with lasting memories of this magical cinematic realm.

Hobbiton Highlights	Description
Hobbit Holes	Charming, intricate hobbit residences
Green Dragon Inn	Iconic pub where hobbits gather
Party Tree	Gathering place for celebrations
Bag End	Home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins
Bywater Bridge	Picturesque stone bridge over a stream
Weta Workshop Exhibits	Behind-the-scenes insights and props

Discovering Hamilton Gardens

After exploring the enchanting world of Hobbiton, the tour continues on to the remarkable Hamilton Gardens, showcasing a diverse array of global garden styles and histories.

Guests will discover themed gardens like the Italian Renaissance Garden, the Japanese Garden of Contemplation, and the Modernist Garden, among others.

The self-guided audio tour provides fascinating insights into each unique garden, highlighting the cultural influences and design principles behind them.

From tranquil water features to ornate architecture, the Hamilton Gardens offer a captivating experience that complements the fantasy elements of Hobbiton.

The tour culminates with a delightful lunch at the on-site café, allowing visitors to savor the beauty and serenity of this renowned horticultural destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on the tour. However, complimentary refreshments and water are provided on the air-conditioned minibus. There are also dining options at the Hamilton Gardens Café during the tour.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?

According to the tour details, there doesn’t appear to be any discounts specifically for seniors or children. The tour has a single price for all participants, regardless of age. However, it may be worth contacting the tour provider to inquire about any potential discounts.

How Long Does the Overall Tour Take?

The overall tour takes approximately 11 hours. It includes a 2-hour guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, self-guided exploration of the Hamilton Gardens, and travel time between locations from Auckland.

Are There Any Options for a Private or Custom Tour?

Yes, this tour offers a private option. The private tour provides personalized attention with a dedicated driver and guide, flexible itinerary, and exclusive access to the Hobbiton Movie Set and Hamilton Gardens sites.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour operator likely offers options to extend the duration of the tour. Travelers can inquire about adding more time at the Hobbiton Movie Set, Hamilton Gardens, or including additional sightseeing in the Waikato region.

Recap

This captivating private tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the enchanting world of Middle-earth and the natural beauty of the Waikato region.

From the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set to the stunning Hamilton Gardens, this full-day experience is a must-do for fans of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings, as well as nature enthusiasts.

With guided tours, delectable dining, and self-guided explorations, it’s a magical and unforgettable adventure.