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Explore Rotorua’s Living Māori Village and Hobbiton Movie Set on a Private Day Tour from Auckland - Auckland

Explore Rotorua’s Living Māori Village and Hobbiton Movie Set on a Private Day Tour from Auckland

Aucklandeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

13 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; expect moderate walking over uneven terrain throughout the day.

Overview

Discover the wonders of Rotorua’s geothermal Māori village and the magical Hobbiton Movie Set on a private full-day tour from Auckland. Experience rich indigenous culture, erupting geysers, and iconic film locations all in one unforgettable adventure.

Auckland, Auckland

Private Tour: Hobbiton Movie Set Tour & Rotorua Living Māori Village Experience

All Ages • 13 hours

Guided Tour
Walking Tour

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About This Adventure

Embark on a luxurious 13-hour private tour from Auckland, blending Māori culture and cinematic magic. Experience the awe of the Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village, witness the Pōhutu Geyser, and savor a traditional Hāngī. Then, explore the enchanting Hobbiton™ Movie Set, complete with iconic Hobbit Holes and a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

Experience the real Middle Earth and the authentic Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village

Tour Duration

13 hours

Tour Summary

Immerse yourself in the heart of Māori culture and geothermal wonders before stepping into Middle-earth on this luxury private tour from Auckland. Begin your journey at the renowned Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village in Rotorua, where you’ll witness the powerful Pōhutu Geyser, bubbling mud pools, and steaming vents in an awe-inspiring geothermal valley. Gain insight into Māori traditions, experience the warmth of local hospitality, and savor an authentic Hāngī meal cooked using natural geothermal heat. After this enriching cultural experience, travel through the stunning Waikato countryside to the iconic Hobbiton™ Movie Set, where you’ll explore the enchanting Shire, visit Hobbit Holes, and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. This carefully curated tour blends culture, nature, and cinematic magic for an unforgettable New Zealand adventure.

Tour Highlights

  • Witness the powerful Pōhutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere.
  • Experience bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and vibrant geothermal landscapes.
  • Immerse yourself in Māori culture with a live performance and explore a sacred carved meeting house.
  • Walk through the iconic 12-acre Hobbiton™ Movie Set with expert storytelling.
  • Step into The Lord of the Rings film set, surrounded by stunning Kaimai Range views.
  • Visit famous filming locations and uncover exclusive behind-the-scenes secrets.
  • Enjoy a refreshing drink at the legendary Green Dragon Inn.

Journey Inclusions

  • Fully guided private return transfers from Auckland.
  • Pick up and drop off from Auckland.
  • Refreshments and water onboard.
  • Complimentary high-speed internet onboard.
  • English-speaking tour escort throughout the journey.
  • Luxurious temperature-controlled private transportation.
  • Exclusive immersive activities and interaction with local communities.
  • Built-in leisure time, to explore destinations as you wish.

Tour Inclusions

  • 1-hour guided group tour at Whakarewarewa Māori Living Village.
  • Māori Cultural Performance (Haka).
  • Hangi Buffet Lunch.
  • 2.5 hours fully guided group tour at Hobbiton Movie Set.
  • Complimentary Hobbiton beverages at Green Dragon Inn.

Tour Requirements

  • Easy level of fitness is required and comfortable shoes with a good grip.
  • Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, walking shoes, Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, and bring a camera & any essential personal items.
  • This is a guided walking tour and sensible walking footwear is recommended.
  • You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
  • Bring a camera or a phone with camera capability as Hobbiton is the perfect place to get some great travel photos.
  • You must be at least 18 years of age and present a valid photo ID in order to consume alcohol.

Adventure Tips

Stay Hydrated in Rotorua

Carry water when exploring Whakarewarewa; the geothermal area can get warm and dry.

Book Your Tour Early

Private tours fill up quickly—reserve in advance to secure your preferred date.

Wear Comfortable Footwear

Both village and Hobbiton involve walking on uneven terrain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Bring a Camera with Extra Batteries

You'll want to capture the geysers, Maori cultural performances, and Hobbiton details.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • New Zealand fantail (Pīwakawaka) often flits around the village grounds.
  • Tūī birds known for their distinctive calls, commonly seen near Whakarewarewa.

History

The Whakarewarewa Village has been continuously inhabited for over 700 years, with geothermal features central to its culture and survival.

Conservation

The sites actively engage in sustainable tourism practices to protect geothermal features and maintain cultural heritage.

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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Necessary for walking comfortably on varied terrain at both sites.

Light Rain Jacket

Essential

Spring showers are common; stay dry and comfortable.

spring specific

Sun Hat and Sunscreen

Essential

Protect yourself from sun exposure during outdoor walking tours.

summer specific

Warm Layer

Essential

Temperatures can drop in the evenings after long days outdoors.

fall specific