Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Small Group Tour (One Way)

Auckland, NZ
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (73 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Water available & snacks provided
  • inclusion
    Small Group & Fully Guided Tour
  • inclusion
    Entry ticket and fully guided tour - Hobbiton Movie Set
  • inclusion
    Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities
  • exclusion
    Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
  • exclusion
    Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking
  • exclusion
    Food and drinks, unless specified

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
Adina Apartment Hotel Auckland Britomart
Copthorne Hotel Auckland City
Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group
Crowne Plaza Auckland, An Ihg Hotel
Doubletree By Hilton Auckland Karaka
Four Points by Sheraton Auckland
Grand Millennium Auckland
Heritage Auckland
Hilton Auckland
ibis Budget Auckland Central
Jw Marriott Auckland
Kiwi International Hotel
M Social Auckland
Mercure Auckland Queen Street
Movenpick Hotel Auckland
Nesuto Stadium Hotel and Apartments
Park Hyatt Auckland
Pullman Auckland Hotel & Apartments
Rydges Auckland
SkyCity Hotel
So/ Auckland
Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
Swiss-Belsuites Victoria Park, Auckland
The Grand by SkyCity
The Sebel Auckland Manukau
VR Auckland City
- Pickup offered from listed locations only. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there. - If your accommodation is yet to be confirmed, we ask that you select SkyCity Hotel for now. You can update this later! - Pick-ups begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside by this time. - Pick-up locations are carefully planned for each tour and may vary by day. If your pick-up location changes, kindly inform us in advance. - Our guides make multiple stops and may arrive within a 10-minute window. To ensure a timely departure, we recommend being ready 5–10 minutes early, as we are unable to wait for late guests. - You will receive an email with important pickup information the day prior, please read this information.

What to expect

1

Auckland Central

Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today but also point out and guide you past some of the city’s top highlights.

2

Waikato Region

Exiting Auckland we travel south through the stunning Waikato countryside, the most extensive farming area in the world, encountering beautiful scenery, mighty rivers, great photo opportunities, impressive mountains and a variety of farm animals along the way.

3
Hobbiton Movie Set

– Arriving at the first feature attraction ‘Hobbiton’ you will board one of the big green Hobbiton buses and depart on a two & a half hour fully guided tour of this amazing 12 acre movie set, with a professional Hobbiton guide to ensure you get the most out of your visit. During your tour step into the lush pastures of the Shire, visit 44 hobbit holes, see amazing gardens, hear the secrets and stories about the making of the movies and enjoy a cold complimentary beverage at the famous Hobbiton pub ‘The Green Dragon Inn’. ** Maintenance & restoration construction at Hobbiton is set to begin 01 June 2025, with the major works being completed in September 2025. During this period, construction and maintenance equipment and noise will be present. Tours will continue as normal but will take an alternate route around the construction zone, while being able to get a glimpse of the work that goes into keeping Hobbiton Movie Set as magical as it looked in the films.

Duration 120 minutes
4

Tirau

Departing for Rotorua we pass through Tirau on our adventure. Dubbed the 'Corrugated Iron Capital of the World' because of the many unique corrugated iron sculptures and buildings, this town never fails to get a look and a laugh and our guides will point out all the main highlights on the way through.

5
Lake Rotorua

Once in Rotorua your guide will drop you at your accommodation in Rotorua (central hotels only) or at a main Rotorua central location.

Duration 5 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can provide your own or one can be provided for $20 NZD (with 24 hours notice).
  • Additional information
    Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, a moderate amount of walking is involved.
  • Additional information
    Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Specialized infant seats are available
  • Additional information
    The legal drinking age is 18, and ID may be required
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Cheeky Kiwi Travel

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try the famous Hobbiton drinks!
  • icon
    Visit the Green Dragon Inn for a snack.
  • icon
    Check out nearby Rotorua attractions post-tour.
  • icon
    Dress in layers; weather can change quickly.
  • icon
    Capture memories; photos available for purchase.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the magic of Middle-earth on the Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Small Group Tour. This fully guided day trip takes you on an unforgettable journey from Auckland to Rotorua, with a visit to the world-famous Lord of The Rings Hobbiton Movie Set and other secret stops along the way. Led by passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, you'll travel in modern and comfortable minibuses, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the journey.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of New Zealand's Waikato region, the most extensive farming area in the world. Encounter beautiful scenery, mighty rivers, and impressive mountains as you travel through this picturesque countryside. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you'll explore the lush pastures of the Shire, visit 44 hobbit holes, and enjoy a refreshing drink at the famous Green Dragon Inn. Along the way, you'll also discover the charming town of Tirau, known for its unique corrugated iron sculptures and buildings.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for movie enthusiasts, Lord of the Rings fans, and anyone who wants to experience the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's countryside. Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or in a group, this small group tour is designed to provide an immersive and unforgettable experience for all.

Why book this?

Embark on this tour to indulge in the enchanting world of Middle-earth. The Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Small Group Tour stands apart from others, offering not only spectacular destinations but also an array of delightful surprises. From secret stops and wildlife viewings to specially designed vehicles and complimentary refreshments, every detail has been thoughtfully crafted to ensure an exceptional experience. With passionate tour guides sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, you'll gain unique insights into the movie-making process and the real-life locations that brought Middle-earth to life. Be captivated by the charm of Hobbiton, experience the stunning countryside, and create memories to last a lifetime.

Good to know

This tour has a total duration of 480 minutes and includes convenient pick-up and drop-off at central locations in both Auckland and Rotorua. The itinerary is meticulously planned, ensuring that you have ample time to explore each attraction and make the most of your journey. All you need to do is sit back, relax, and let the beauty of New Zealand unfold before your eyes. Please note that accommodation in Rotorua is only provided for central hotels.

Reviews

Customers have raved about the Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Small Group Tour, praising the knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour guides who made the experience truly unforgettable. Visitors have been amazed not only by the breathtaking landscapes but also by the attention to detail and the extra surprises that made the tour exceptional. The Hobbiton Movie Set, in particular, has left a lasting impression on travelers, who were delighted by the chance to step into the Shire and explore the magical world of Lord of The Rings. Overall, customers have expressed their satisfaction and gratitude for an experience that surpassed their expectations.

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