Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland inc Lunch

Auckland, NZ
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (51 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Small Group & Fully Guided Tour
  • inclusion
    Optional extra - One-way option from Auckland to Waitomo
  • inclusion
    Lunch

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
  • exclusion
    Gratuities

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 several 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 and 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
Admission Admission Included
4

Karapiro

Departing Hobbiton and heading towards Waitomo we stop at the stunning Lake Karapiro. Home to one of New Zealand’s first hydro dams and where some of New Zealand’s great rowers train. With amazing views across the lake and countryside, it’s a great place for a quick break and some photos.

Duration 10 minutes
5

Otorohanga

Time to recharge with a tasty lunch, included as part of your tour. Choose from a fresh selection of savoury bites to keep you going for the afternoon. Relax and enjoy the local flavours before continuing your adventure.

Duration 30 minutes
6
Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Arriving at our second feature attraction you will be guided through the ancient and amazing caves seeing many different cave formations including Stalactites, Stalagmites and Lime Columns before descending even further underground for your Glowworm experience. Board your glowworm boat for a cruise on the grotto river with thousands of Glowworms sparkling above you. Unique to New Zealand for over 120 years, Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must see for any traveller.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included
7

Auckland

Sadly after Waitomo we must start to head north again but your day is not over with a fully guided return trip to Auckland including secret stops along the way.

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 hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
  • Additional information
    Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
  • Additional information
    If you are visiting off a cruise ship, please be aware we cannot guarantee to be back in time for a 6:30/7:00/7:30 PM cruise departure
  • 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 poor cardiovascular health
  • 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
    Visit the Green Dragon Inn for a drink.
  • icon
    Bring a camera for stunning lake views.
  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
  • icon
    Plan for cool temps in the caves.
  • icon
    Check weather; it operates rain or shine.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland. This experience combines the magic of the world-famous Lord of The Rings Hobbiton Movie Set with the enchanting Waitomo Glowworm Caves, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore two of the North Island's top tourist attractions in a single day.

What to expect?

Guests can anticipate a day filled with awe-inspiring sights and immersive experiences. From wandering through the Hobbiton Movie Set and Alexander Family Sheep Farm to marveling at the mesmerizing glowworms in the Waitomo Caves, every moment is sure to be a highlight. With small group sizes and knowledgeable guides, travelers can expect a personalized and engaging tour that goes beyond the typical tourist experience.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for fans of The Lord of The Rings, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand. The small group setting ensures a more intimate and immersive experience, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. Whether you're a movie buff or simply seeking adventure, this tour offers something for everyone.

Why book this?

The Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour stands out for its attention to detail and focus on providing a memorable experience. With secret animal viewing stops, specially designed vehicles, and passionate tour guides, every aspect of the journey is carefully crafted to exceed expectations. From the comfort of modern minibuses to the insider knowledge shared by guides, this tour offers a unique and enriching exploration of New Zealand's iconic locations.

Good to know

Guests can enjoy the convenience of a fully guided tour, entry tickets, bottled water, and snacks included in the package. Optional extras like one-way transportation from Auckland to Waitomo are available for added flexibility. While souvenir photos and gratuities are not included, they can be purchased on-site to capture memories of this extraordinary journey.

Reviews

Travelers rave about the Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour, praising the knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and unforgettable sights. Many highlight the unique experiences and special touches that set this tour apart from others, making it a must-do for anyone visiting Auckland. Overall, guests express high satisfaction with the tour's organization, quality, and overall value for money.

Select Currency