Discover your experience
The tour begins with a friendly pickup from the heart of Auckland city, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure as you drive through the picturesque Waikato countryside, recognized as the world’s most extensive farming region, embarking on a fully guided journey to the enchanting Hobbiton.
As you traverse this stunning landscape, keep your camera ready to seize the breathtaking views of majestic mountains and sprawling farmlands that uniquely define this part of New Zealand, each moment inviting you to capture the serenity surrounding you.
Upon reaching the Alexander Family Sheep Farm and Shire's Rest, the gateway to Hobbiton, you're greeted by the sight of thousands of fluffy sheep grazing peacefully, making it an idyllic photo opportunity that shouldn’t be missed. Take a moment to indulge in some delicious refreshments; whether it’s a light meal, comforting coffee, or a refreshing ice cream to cool down, there’s something to satisfy every palate while your knowledgeable guide collects the tickets to the renowned movie set.
Next, it’s time to hop aboard one of those iconic big green Hobbiton buses, which will whisk you away on a 2.5-hour fully guided experience around this astonishing 12-acre movie set, led by a passionate professional Hobbiton guide dedicated to ensuring your visit is memorable and engaging.
As your tour unfolds, you'll wander through the lush pastures of the Shire, visiting 44 delightful hobbit holes that bring the magic of Middle-earth to life, exploring the vibrant gardens and hearing fascinating behind-the-scenes secrets and stories from the making of the films, culminating your LOTR adventure with a refreshing drink at the famed Green Dragon Inn.
Following your immersive experience in Hobbiton, the journey continues as you head west toward the breathtaking Waitomo region, with the opportunity to admire the impressive hydro dams, expansive farmland, elegant racehorses, and the vibrant Kiwiana capital of New Zealand along the way, each sight presenting an authentic slice of Kiwi life.
Before diving into the wonders of the caves, you’ll stop by Waitomo Homestead for a well-deserved lunch and perhaps a delightful surprise to savor.
Once you arrive in Waitomo, you’re invited to explore the ancient and awe-inspiring caves, marveling at the intricate cave formations, including stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and lime columns that have endured through the ages, before descending deeper underground for your one-of-a-kind Glowworm Grotto experience.
Embark on a serene cruise aboard a glow-worm boat down the grotto river, where the atmosphere transforms into a mesmerizing display of twinkling glowworms lighting up the darkened cave above you, a spectacle unique to New Zealand that has captivated visitors for over 120 years. Please note that photography is discouraged within the delicate ecosystem of the Waitomo Caves, ensuring the preservation of the glowworms and limestone formations for future generations to appreciate.
As your guided trip back to Auckland unfolds, the sights continue to captivate, with glimpses of New Zealand's longest river, the Huntly power station, and the historically significant Maori Queens’ burial site, enhancing the rich tapestry of experiences on this extraordinary journey.
