Auckland.kiwi Logo

Waitomo Caves & Hobbiton Small Group Tour from Auckland

Offered by Cheeky Kiwi Travel

From

$399.00 per person

4.7 (27 reviews)

Instant Confirmation

Check Availability on Viator

Booking handled by our partner, Viator

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

Tour Overview

Explore the enchanting landscapes of New Zealand’s North Island with a tour that seamlessly combines natural wonder and cinematic magic. Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Auckland, through the verdant Waikato countryside, a spectacle of rolling hills and pastoral beauty, leading you to your first major stop, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Here, descend into an ancient subterranean world, where stalactites, stalagmites, and lime columns craft an ethereal backdrop. The highlight is undoubtedly the boat ride on the grotto river, illuminated by the gentle glow of thousands of glowworms,a sight unique to these caves.

From there, the tour heads towards the whimsical world of Hobbiton, the celebrated movie set of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Step into the Shire as you explore the 12-acre set, visiting iconic hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn, where stories from the movies come to life through your guide’s narration. This part of the tour not only offers a glimpse into the meticulous creation of the movie set but also into the natural beauty that envelops it.

Throughout the day, your guide will share insights into the region’s cultural and historical significance, enhancing your understanding of the places you visit. The drive back to Auckland includes a few secret stops, promising more serene views and perhaps a chance to see local wildlife, rounding off a day that beautifully showcases the North Island’s diverse offerings. This tour is thoughtfully paced, ensuring you have ample time to savor each moment of your adventure.

What's Included

  • Water available & snacks provided
  • Entry ticket and fully guided tour - Hobbiton Movie Set
  • Entry ticket and fully guided tour - Waitomo Caves
  • Optional extra - One-way option from Auckland to Hobbiton
  • Small Group & Fully Guided Tour

Not Included:

  • Gratuities
  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
  • There will be several opportunities to purchase food along the way

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

    Waitomo Glowworm Caves

    Arriving at our first 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

  4. 4

    Otorohanga

    Departing Waitomo and heading towards Hobbiton we will pass many more scenic beauties, see racehorse breeding areas, rivers, and lakes before entering Otorohanga “The Kiwiana capital of New Zealand”. See all things Kiwi as you pass through this unique and charming town.

    Pass by without stopping

  5. 5

    Karapiro

    This stunning lake is home to one of New Zealand’s first hydro dams and where some of New Zealand’s great rowers train. With amazing views across the lake and countryside, it’s a great place for a quick break and some photos.

    10 minutes

  6. 6

    Hobbiton Movie Set

    Arriving at the second 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’. *** Maintenance & restoration construction at Hobbiton is set to begin 01 June 2025, with the major works being completed in September 2025. During this period, construction and maintenance equipment and noise will be present. Tours will continue as normal but will take an alternate route around the construction zone, while being able to get a glimpse of the work that goes into keeping Hobbiton Movie Set as magical as it looked in the films.

    2 hours

    Admission: Included

  7. 7

    Auckland

    Sadly after Hobbiton 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

- Enjoy the convenience of pick-ups from selected hotels. If your location isn’t listed, simply choose the nearest available option & meet us there! - Pick-ups begin up to 20 minutes before the tour departure time. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside by this time....

Important Information

Guides will collect all tickets on arrival to each attraction and hand deliver these to you Pick Ups start 20 Minutes before the tour starts, Please find your pick up time below: Park Hyatt 05:40 AM Sofitel Viaduct Harbour 05:40 AM Hilton Hotel 05:40 AM M Social 05:45 AM Movenpick Hotel 05: 45 AM Adina Apartment Hotel 05:45 AM Copthorne Auckland City 05:45 AM Nesuto Stadium Hotel and Apartments 05:45 AM Pullman Auckland 05:45 AM SO/Auckland 05:45 AM JW Marriott Auckland City 05:50 AM Heritage Auckland 05:50 AM Ibis Budget Auckland Central (Pick up also for CityLife, Barclay Suites, Holiday Inn Express) 05:50 AM Crowne Plaza 05:55 AM Rydges Hotel 05:55 AM The Grand By SkyCity 05:55 AM SkyCity Hotel 05:55 AM Four Points by Sheraton 05:55 AM Grand Millennium Auckland 06:00 AM Mercure Hotel 06:00 AM Kiwi International Hotel 06:00 AM VR Auckland City, 188 Hobson Street 06:00 AM Cordis Auckland 06:05 AM

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 the delicate ecosystem within the Waitomo Caves, photography is not permitted inside.
  • A moderate amount of walking is involved. Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
  • Bus tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.
  • Children 7 years old and under are required to travel in a child safety car seat. If you don't have a car seat one can be provided, please contact us at least 24 hours in advance to arrange this.
  • The legal drinking age is 18, and ID may be required

Cancellation Policy

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