Hobbiton & Te Puia Private Tour by ExperienceKart
Difficulty
easy
Duration
13 hours
Fitness Level
Guests should be in moderate physical condition, able to walk unpaved paths and climb stairs comfortably.
Overview
Spend a full day with ExperienceKart Limited on a private journey from Auckland to the Hobbiton Movie Set and Te Puia Geothermal Valley. See hobbit holes, erupting geysers, and experience authentic Māori culture all in one seamless adventure.
Private Tour: Hobbiton Movie Set & Te Puia Geothermal Valley Experience
All Ages • 13 Hours • Private Tour
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 13-hour private tour from Auckland, blending the magical Hobbiton Movie Set with the stunning geothermal wonders of Te Puia. Explore iconic hobbit holes, witness the Pōhutu Geyser's eruption, and immerse yourself in Māori culture with traditional performances and a delicious hāngī buffet lunch, all in one remarkable day.
Experience the real Middle Earth and Te Puia, the home to the New Zeeland Māori Arts and Crafts Institute
Tour Duration
13 hours
Tour Summary
Experience the best of New Zealand on a seamless private tour from Auckland, combining the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set with the cultural and geothermal wonders of Te Puia. Stroll through the lush pastures of Hobbiton, explore iconic hobbit holes, and relive scenes from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Then, journey to Rotorua’s Te Puia Geothermal Valley, where bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and the powerful Pōhutu Geyser showcase nature’s raw beauty. Immerse yourself in Māori culture with a traditional performance and savor a delicious hāngī buffet lunch, making this a truly unforgettable day of storytelling, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
Tour Highlights
- Explore two of New Zealand’s most iconic attractions in one unforgettable day.
- Travel in comfort through the lush Waikato countryside, famous for its dairy farms.
- Wander through the magical 12-acre Hobbiton Movie Set with expert storytelling.
- Capture stunning photos of hobbit holes, the Party Tree, and rolling Kaimai Ranges.
- Enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn, just like in The Lord of the Rings.
- Witness the awe-inspiring Pōhutu Geyser erupting up to 30 meters into the air.
- Experience Māori culture through traditional performances and rich storytelling.
- Discover bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and spot the elusive kiwi bird.
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
- 90 Minutes Te Puia Geothermal Valley guided group tour.
- Traditional Hangi buffet lunch
- Māori cultural performance (Haka).
- 2.5 hours guided group tour of Hobbiton Movie Set.
- Complimentary beverages at Green Dragon Inn.
Tour Requirements
- Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, & any essential personal items.
- Easy and good fitness level required.
- 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
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes
The tour includes walking on uneven terrain and stairs at both Hobbiton and Te Puia, so closed-toe shoes with good grip are recommended.
Bring sun protection
Parts of the tour are outdoors with limited shade—pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to stay protected.
Carry a camera or smartphone
Both Hobbiton’s detailed set and Te Puia’s geothermal features offer exceptional photo opportunities, so be ready to capture memorable moments.
Be prepared for variable weather
North Island weather can shift—layered clothing is ideal to stay comfortable through cool mornings and warmer afternoons.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Spot native kiwi birds around Te Puia’s reserves, especially in protected nocturnal settings.
- Keep an eye out for fantails flitting through Hobbiton's surrounding pastures.
History
Te Puia is the site of the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, established in 1963 to preserve and promote Māori cultural heritage alongside geothermal phenomena.
Conservation
Both Hobbiton and Te Puia integrate sustainable practices to protect local ecosystems, including strict visitor limitations and cultural respect protocols.
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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
To handle uneven and sometimes slippery surfaces during both tours.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects against sun exposure during outdoor portions of the tour.
spring|summer|fall specific
Light rain jacket
Keeps you dry during occasional showers on the route.
spring|fall specific
Layered clothing
Allows you to adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day.
winter specific