Hobbiton & Hamilton Gardens Tour with Zest Tours NZ
Difficulty
easy
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with light to moderate walking throughout the day.
Overview
Discover New Zealand’s Waikato highlights on this full-day journey with Zest Tours, featuring the award-winning Hamilton Gardens and the iconic Hobbiton movie set. Enjoy cultural gardens, charming towns, and cinematic magic all in one trip.
Hobbiton & Hamilton Gardens Tour
Ages 5+ • Full day • Selling fast
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 12-hour journey through New Zealand's stunning landscapes, featuring the award-winning Hamilton Gardens and the charming town of Cambridge. Experience the magic of Hobbiton with a guided tour of its enchanting movie set, complete with iconic sights and a complimentary drink to toast your adventure.
Awesome day out
Duration
Approximately 12 hours
About
A pleasant drive south over the Bombay hills into the rich dairy farmland of the Waikato, following the Waikato River to Hamilton, our largest inland city. The Hamilton Gardens were awarded International Garden of The Year 2014. Not technically a botanical garden, but rather 21 themed gardens representing the art, beliefs, lifestyles, and traditions of different civilizations or historical garden styles.
Onto Cambridge, billed as our most English like town, with it’s stately oak trees, village green and historic St Andrew’s Anglican Church 1881. Our lunch stop is taken here.
A short drive to Lake Karapiro and the hydro-electric power station on the Waikato River for a photo stop. The majestic 797m Mt Maungatautari (Sanctuary Mountain) looms in the background. Then on to Hobbiton, for your fascinating two hour guided tour over the most picturesque of private farmlands. The set has been completely rebuilt for the Hobbit. You'll see the Hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Mill, double arched bridge and other structures. At tours end a complimentary cider, beer or ginger beer is included.
Highlights & Inclusions
Hamilton Gardens
- Lunch
- Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
- Waikato River / Lake Karapiro
Adventure Tips
Bring comfortable walking shoes
Both Hamilton Gardens and Hobbiton involve extensive walking over varied terrain; sturdy shoes make the experience more enjoyable.
Carry sun protection
Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as much of the day is spent outdoors with limited shade along walking paths.
Book in advance
Tours fill quickly, especially during peak seasons, so early booking ensures your spot on this popular itinerary.
Prepare for seasonal weather
Weather can change rapidly; layers and waterproof gear can keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Native Tui birds commonly found around Hamilton Gardens
- Waterfowl species inhabiting Waikato River and Lake Karapiro
History
Hamilton Gardens represent garden designs dating back centuries, shaped by cultures from Renaissance Italy to 19th-century England.
Conservation
Efforts at Mt Maungatautari nearby focus on pest eradication and habitat restoration to protect native flora and fauna.
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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Walking shoes
Supportive footwear ensures comfort on varied walking surfaces at the gardens and Hobbiton.
Sunhat and sunscreen
Protects skin and eyes during extended outdoor time.
spring|summer|fall specific
Layered clothing
Allows adaptation to changing weather conditions throughout the day.
all specific
Light rain jacket
Keeps you dry during sudden showers common in these seasons.
spring|fall|winter specific