Water Activities & Nature Tour with TIME Unlimited Tours in New Zealand
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical condition needed for walking and boat rides
Overview
Experience the cinematic magic and geological marvels of New Zealand with this private tour from Rotorua to Auckland. Discover Hobbiton, glowworm caves, and geothermal wonders all in one unforgettable day.
Rotorua to Auckland via Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves One-Way Private Tour
For all ages! • 10 hours • Great for couples!
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About This Adventure
Experience two iconic NZ visitor attractions in one amazing day starting in Rotorua and ending in Auckland. See the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves and travel through the beautiful Waikato region.
Duration
10 hours
About
Combine a luxury transfer from Rotorua to Auckland with a visit to 2 world-famous attractions in New Zealand: Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
After pick-up in Rotorua, we drive across the Mamaku Plateau to the Hobbiton Movie Set near the rural town of Matamata, made world-famous as the original setting of Sir Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies. On the 2-hour tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, get 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.
We then continue on to Waitomo Caves, located in the King Country in the Waikato region. On this tour we travel via the Thermal Explorer Highway touring route, taking in the special region as we drive through the beautiful countryside of New Zealand’s North Island. At Waitomo, experience the underground wonderland that is Waitomo Glowworm Caves with thousands of Glowworms as the major attraction.
As we drive northward on the journey from Waitomo to Auckland, we show you sacred Taupiri Mountain as well as Ngaruawahia, the site of Turangawaewae Marae (Maori meeting place) and seat of New Zealand’s Maori King. Be dropped off in Auckland after combining a transfer from Rotorua to Auckland with exploring some of the most beautiful parts of Aotearoa / New Zealand. This Private One-Way Tour from Rotorua via Waitomo Glowworm Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set to Auckland allows you to see 2 of New Zealand’s most famous attractions in one amazing day.
More info
Inclusions: Fully guided Private Tour in Mercedes luxury vehicle. Pick-up Rotorua and drop-off Auckland. Tour times: Rotorua 8am to Auckland 6pm (flexible). Complimentary snacks & water. All tours support local eco-cultural initiatives.
Exclusions:
Optional lunch
Entry fees to Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes
Bring good walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain and cave touring.
Bring a waterproof jacket
Weather can change quickly, especially near geothermal areas.
Pack your camera with extra batteries
Capture Hobbiton scenes and glowing caves without worry about power.
Stay hydrated and bring snacks
Long day trips require sustenance and hydration for sustained energy.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common farmland birds
- Possibly sighting glowworms or native bats in caves
History
Hobbiton was established as a filming location in 1999 and has since become a major tourist attraction, impacting local tourism and economy.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to preserve the natural beauty of the geothermal sites and caves, promoting responsible tourism.
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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking tours and exploring caves.
Waterproof clothing
Keeps you dry during outdoor and cave excursions.
Camera or smartphone with extra batteries
Capture the stunning scenery and film locations.
Daypack
Carry essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear.