From Auckland: Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Glowworms Caves Guided Tour

See the Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Glowworm Cave on a full-day tour from Auckland. Explore Middle Earth’s magical landscapes and sail through the glowworm-lit Waitomo Glowworm Cave with expert guides.

Getting started

Your tour begins with hotel pickup in Auckland CBD, followed by a scenic 2-hour drive through the Waikato countryside, with views of the Kaimai Range along the way.

What to expect

• Arrive at Hobbiton Movie Set: Board the Hobbiton bus to the 12-acre movie set from Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Explore the enchanting landscapes that brought Middle Earth to life on the big screen.

• Guided Hobbiton tour: Join a 2.5-hour guided tour through Hobbiton, including colorful Hobbit Holes, Bag End, The Mill, and the Double Arched Bridge. Learn fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and enjoy a complimentary beverage at the Green Dragon Inn.

• Drive to Waitomo Glowworm Caves: Next, travel to the mystical Waitomo Glowworm Cave, famous for their luminescent inhabitants and stunning limestone formations.

• Waitomo Glowworm Cave guided walk: Go on a 1-hour guided stroll through the caves. See stalactites, stalagmites, and learn about the cave’s geological history.

• Magical boat ride: Glide silently along the underground Waitomo River beneath thousands of glowing Arachnocampa Luminosa, creating a star-filled luminescent display.

• Return to Auckland: Relax on the scenic drive back to your hotel.

Know before you go

What to bring

• Bring your towel, swimwear, shower gel, and shampoo for the adventure.

• When you visit, make sure you've got a credit card or your phone set up for contactless payments (like Apple Pay or Google Pay).

What's not allowed

• Camera equipment, tripod, selfie sticks, and GoPro are strictly prohibited in Ruakari Cave.

• Guests aged under 16 years and under 45kg are restricted from participating in this experience.

• Smoking, food, drink or litter are not allowed inside the cave.

• Pets are not allowed inside the cave.

Accessibility

• The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, pram/stroller users, people with mobility issues, people with back and neck problems, and guests who don't have a moderate fitness level or are too small.

Additional information

• Facilities: Lockers, changing rooms, hot showers.

• This experience operates only with a minimum of 2 guests.

• No prior caving experience is needed. However, a good level of fitness is required.

• You do need to be comfortable in the water. However, swimming is not a necessity. You will have a floating tube and expert guides for this experience.

• Your guide will take photos of you on your tour, which you can purchase after the tour.