Private Auckland to Waitomo & Hobbiton Tour by TIME Unlimited
Difficulty
easy
Duration
11 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels with moderate walking and standing during tours
Overview
Journey from Auckland to witness the ethereal glow of Waitomo Caves and step inside the cinematic world of Hobbiton on this exclusive private tour with TIME Unlimited Tours.
Auckland to Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set Private Tour
For all ages! • 11 hours
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About This Adventure
On this best-selling private tour, you have the unique opportunity to experience 2 world-famous New Zealand visitor attractions on a wonderful, personally guided one-day tour.
Duration
11 hours
About
On this best-selling private tour, you have the unique opportunity to experience 2 world-famous New Zealand visitor attractions on a wonderful, personally guided one-day tour. On the way to Waitomo we pass through the beautiful countryside of the Waikato and King Country. Our experienced and knowledgeable local Host-Guides will tell you about New Zealand and its extraordinary places you will see along the approximately 2.5 hour journey from Auckland to the Waitomo Glowworm caves.
As we drive southward, we show you the sacred Taupiri Mountain as well as Ngaruawahia, the site of the famous Turangawaewae Marae (Maori meeting place) and seat of New Zealand’s Maori King. At Waitomo you will experience the world-famous Glowworm Caves on a 45 minute tour, which includes a boat ride on an underground stream to view the magically dazzling glowworms.
From Waitomo Caves, we continue on to the Hobbiton Movie Set near the rural town of Matamata, made world-famous as the original setting for extensive portions of Peter Jackson’s "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies.
On arrival at the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, you will go on a 2.5 hour tour to give you astonishing insights into how these movies were made and which parts of the movies were filmed here. Not only movie fans will enjoy this unique experience with inside views of the Hobbit village including Hobbit Holes, Bag End, The Green Dragon Inn and astonishing facts about the filmmaking and spectacular landscape all around. Then return to Auckland after a great private tour where you have been able to see 2 of New Zealand’s most famous attractions, all in one day.
Inclusions: Fully guided tour in Mercedes luxury vehicle. Pick-up/drop-off in Auckland incl airport/cruise terminal. Entry to Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set GROUP Tours. Complimentary snacks, water and lunch also included.
Exclusions: n/a
Adventure Tips
Comfortable Footwear
Bring sturdy, comfortable shoes as walking tours at Waitomo and Hobbiton involve uneven surfaces and steps.
Pack Light Layers
Cave temperatures stay cool year-round; layers will keep you comfortable during the underground boat ride and outdoor Hobbiton visit.
Camera Ready
Photography is allowed outside the caves, so keep your camera or phone handy to capture Hobbiton’s details and the surrounding countryside.
Hydrate and Snack
Though snacks and water are provided, carrying a personal water bottle is helpful to stay hydrated throughout this 11-hour day tour.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Glowworms unique to New Zealand caves
- Native birds such as fantails and tui in rural areas
History
The Waitomo caves have been a source of local Māori legends and a historical site for generations, while Hobbiton's landscape was permanently transformed by Tolkien’s cinematic vision.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing at Waitomo to protect cave ecosystems from human impact, and Hobbiton promotes sustainable tourism practices to preserve the farmland and movie sets.
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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating cave floors and garden paths safely and comfortably.
Light waterproof jacket
Protects against rain and chill during outdoor segments of the tour.
spring|fall|winter specific
Camera or smartphone
For capturing the unique landscapes and movie set details.
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated through the full-day experience.