auckland.kiwi Logo

Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Day Tour with Lunch from Auckland

Offered by Cheeky Kiwi Travel

From

$379.00 per person

4.9 (1189 reviews)

Instant Confirmation

Check Availability

Booking handled by our partner, Viator

12 hours (approx.)Pickup Available Mobile or paper ticket accepted Offered in: English

Experience Hobbiton and Waitomo Glowworm Caves on a small-group tour from Auckland with secret stops, expert guides, and a delicious included lunch.

Tour Overview

Embark on a journey that takes you from the urban landscapes of Auckland into the heart of New Zealand's cinematic and natural wonders. This tour expertly combines a visit to the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set with the mystical Waitomo Glowworm Caves in a single, streamlined day trip.

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive south from Auckland, where your guide will introduce you to the city's major highlights before you enter the breathtaking Waikato countryside. This region is renowned not just for its pastoral beauty but also for its significance to New Zealand’s dairy farming, offering views of rolling hills and the meandering paths of mighty rivers.

Upon arrival at Hobbiton, you'll be transported into the whimsical world of Middle-earth on a two and a half hour guided tour. Explore the iconic 12-acre set, where you'll walk past intricately crafted hobbit holes and lush gardens that were pivotal to "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" film series. Conclude your Hobbiton experience with a complimentary beverage at the Green Dragon Inn, a favorite among both visitors and fictional characters alike.

Next, the tour heads to the Waitomo region, where you'll delve into the subterranean marvel of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Navigate through ancient cave formations before taking a silent boat ride under a canopy of glowworms, whose radiant, bioluminescent light creates a starry effect on the cave’s ceiling,a truly magical sight.

As the day winds down, you'll return to Auckland, enriched by the knowledge and stories shared by your guide, making this not just a tour, but a vivid narrative of New Zealand's rich cultural and geological tapestry.

What's Included

  • Small Group and Fully Guided Tour
  • Lunch
  • Entry Tickets
  • Water available & snacks provided

Not Included:

  • Gratuities
  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

What To Expect

  1. 1

    Auckland Central

    Your tour starts in New Zealand’s largest city. As we drive out of the city your guide will not only set the scene for your adventure today but also point out and guide you past some of the city’s top highlights.

    Pass by without stopping

  2. 2

    Waikato Region

    Exiting Auckland we travel south through the stunning Waikato countryside, the most extensive farming area in the world, encountering beautiful scenery, mighty rivers, great photo opportunities, impressive mountains and several farm animals along the way.

    Pass by without stopping

  3. 3

    Hobbiton Movie Set

    Arriving at the first feature attraction ‘Hobbiton’ you will board one of the big green Hobbiton buses and depart on a two & a half hour fully guided tour of this amazing 12 acre movie set with a professional Hobbiton guide to ensure you get the most out of your visit. During your tour step into the lush pastures of the Shire, visit 44 hobbit holes, see amazing gardens, hear the secrets and stories about the making of the movies and enjoy a cold complimentary beverage at the famous Hobbiton pub ‘The Green Dragon Inn’.

    2 hours

    Admission: Included

  4. 4

    Karapiro

    This stunning lake is home to one of New Zealand’s first hydro dams and where some of New Zealand’s great rowers come from. With viewpoints that have amazing views across the lake and countryside we believe it a great place for a quick break and some photos.

    10 minutes

  5. 5

    Otorohanga

    Time to recharge with a tasty lunch, included as part of your tour. Choose from a fresh selection of savoury bites to keep you going for the afternoon. Relax and enjoy the local flavours before continuing your adventure.

    30 minutes

  6. 6

    Waitomo Glowworm Caves

    Arriving at our second feature attraction you will be guided through the ancient and amazing caves seeing many different cave formations including Stalactites, Stalagmites and Lime Columns before descending even further underground for your Glowworm experience. Board your glowworm boat for a cruise on the grotto river with thousands of Glowworms sparkling above you. Unique to New Zealand for over 120 years, Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must see for any traveller.

    1 hour

    Admission: Included

  7. 7

    Auckland

    Sadly after Waitomo we must start to head north again but your day is not over with a fully guided return trip to Auckland including secret stops along the way.

    5 minutes

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup available

Please select your preferred pickup location when booking through Viator.

Pickup details

*If no pickup is selected at time of booking, you will be allocated our default meeting point (SkyCity Hotel). You are welcome to update this at any time. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there. *Pick-ups can begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 5 minutes prior to your specific pickup time. ...

Important Information

*You will receive an email with important pickup information in the days prior, please read this information.

Additional Info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
  • Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
  • Due to the delicate ecosystem within the Waitomo Caves, photography is not permitted inside.
  • Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can provide your own or one can be provided for $20 NZD (with 24 hours notice).
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
  • The legal drinking age is 18, and ID may be required
  • Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, a moderate amount of walking is involved.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.