From Auckland: Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Glowworms Caves Tour

Hotel Pickup

Start with a hotel pickup in Auckland CBD, followed by a 2-hour scenic drive through Waikato's countryside. Enjoy views of the Kaimai Range along the way.

Arrive at Hobbiton Movie Set

Board the Hobbiton bus to the 12-acre movie set of 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit.' Explore Hobbiton, experiencing the same magical landscapes seen in Peter Jackson's famous trilogies, that has mesmerized audiences globally.

Guided Tour of Hobbiton

Join a guided tour through Hobbiton, exploring the colorful Hobbit Holes, including Bag End, home of Bilbo Baggins. Visit The Mill, and marvel at the picturesque Double Arched Bridge. Learn fascinating details about the set's creation and its transformation from farmland to a slice of Middle-earth. The tour includes a stop at the Green Dragon Inn for a complimentary beverage.

Drive to Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Next, head towards the mystical Waitomo Glowworm Caves, renowned for their natural beauty and luminescent inhabitants.

Waitomo Caves guided walk

Embark on a guided stroll through the Waitomo Glowworm Cave. Marvel at spectacular limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, and learn about the cave's geological past and the natural forces that shaped these wonders.

Waitomo River boat ride

The tour's climax is a serene boat ride through the caves, where you'll encounter the Arachnocampa Luminosa, a species of glowworm native to New Zealand. These tiny creatures create a breathtaking luminescent display, lighting up the cave ceiling like a star-filled sky.

Return to Auckland

End your tour with a relaxing drive back to Auckland and a drop-off at your hotel.

From Auckland: Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Glowworms Caves Tour

Discover the enchanting landscapes of New Zealand on this full-day guided tour from Auckland, which includes visits to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set and the mesmerizing Waitomo Glowworm Caves. The tour covers approximately 200 kilometers in a single day, with round-trip transfers provided for your convenience. Enjoy a 90-minute exploration of Hobbiton, where you can admire the 44 hobbit holes built at various scales—90% for actors playing hobbits and 60% for Gandalf—and The Mill, featured prominently in "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies. Savor a refreshing beverage at the Green Dragon Inn before heading to Waitomo, where you will experience the awe-inspiring glowworm caves formed over 30 million years ago. This tour offers guided commentary in English and includes access to both sites, ensuring a seamless and informative journey for all participants.

Explore Hobbiton Movie Set

Your tour stops at the Hobbiton Movie Set where you can walk through the meticulously recreated Shire village used in "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies. Established in 2011, this set spans over 12 acres, featuring authentic details such as the iconic hobbit holes built at varying scales to accommodate actors. Visitors spend about an hour exploring the site, taking in landmarks like The Mill and Bag End, with a 90-minute visit including a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Unique for its scale and attention to detail, Hobbiton offers a magical glimpse into Middle-earth that no other movie set can match, making it a must-see destination for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien's works.

Discover Waitomo Glowworm Caves

At the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, guests can marvel at ancient rock formations and take a boat ride beneath a canopy of twinkling glowworms, an experience that lasts about 45 minutes. Formed over 30 million years ago, these caves are part of a vast network covering more than 1,200 acres in the Waitomo district. Visitors can see unique features like Aranui Cave and Ruakuri Cave, each with its own distinct geological history and luminescent glowworms. The caves offer an educational and awe-inspiring journey into New Zealand's natural wonders, setting them apart from other cave systems due to their bioluminescent inhabitants.

Tour Highlights

• Explore Hobbiton Movie Set with iconic hobbit holes
• 45-minute boat ride in Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Guided commentary in English by expert guides
• Refreshing drink at the Green Dragon Inn included
• Visit to Ruakuri Cave and Aranui Cave for unique formations
• Round-trip transfers from Auckland city center provided
• Access to both Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves included
• Educational insights into Middle-earth and natural history

Perfect for movie enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers, this full-day tour provides an immersive experience through iconic landmarks. The day allows you to explore the intricately designed sets of Hobbiton, marvel at the bioluminescent wonders in Waitomo Caves, and learn about New Zealand's rich history and culture, making it a comprehensive journey for anyone interested in Middle-earth or geological formations.