Auckland to Rotorua, Hobbiton and Waitomo 1-Way Tour

FromNZ$449
12 hours
Auckland Central, New Zealand

About this activity

Experience New Zealand's iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, the enchanting Waitomo Caves, and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua in a seamless one-way tour from Auckland.

Highlights

  • Explore the Hobbiton Movie Set
  • Discover the glowworms in Waitomo Caves
  • Enjoy scenic New Zealand landscapes
  • Learn about Maori culture
  • Experience a small group tour atmosphere

Full description

Set off on an unforgettable journey from Auckland to Rotorua, immersing yourself in New Zealand's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Begin with a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you'll wander through the picturesque village of the Shire, visit the iconic Green Dragon Inn, and capture photos of the charming hobbit holes. Next, delve into the mesmerizing Waitomo Caves, renowned for their twinkling glowworms that illuminate the subterranean passages. Conclude your adventure in Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland, where you can explore bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and learn about the indigenous Maori culture. This small group tour ensures a personalized experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks of New Zealand's North Island.

Included / Excluded

  • Transportation from Auckland to Rotorua
  • Guided tour of Hobbiton Movie Set
  • Visit to Waitomo Caves
  • Meals and beverages

Important information

Know before you book

  • This tour is a one-way trip from Auckland to Rotorua; return transportation is not included.
  • Meals and beverages are not provided; consider bringing snacks or purchasing food along the way.
  • The tour involves walking through various terrains; ensure you are comfortable with moderate physical activity.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
  • Bring a light jacket, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
  • Have a camera ready to capture the stunning landscapes and unique sites.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

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

Accessibility

  • Stroller Accessible
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infant Seats Available

Good to know

  • Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, 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.
  • Guests can bring 1 large & 1 small piece of luggage each

Traveler reviews

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Highly recommended

Despite the constant rain, we had an eventful and very informative tour today. Special thanks to our guide, Trent, who took great care of us and was, above all, very friendly, attentive, and entertaining. I highly recommend Cheeky Kiwi and, above all, Trent. Übersetzt mit DeepL (https://dee.pl/apps)

reginaoB9437MZAug 9, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Best Tour I have been on!

We had an amazing time with Grant and Cheeky Kiwi. He kept us on time and well fed. We never had to wait in line and we even got tips before the tours stop so we were well Prepared for certain parts of the tours. It was fantastic.

christinetO2360YAJul 16, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Excellent Tour and Outstanding Guide

I thoroughly enjoyed the Auckland to Rotorua tour with Ari (Arahia). Not only did I learn a great deal about New Zealand’s history and landmarks, but I also gained valuable insight into Māori culture through Ari’s personal perspective as a member of the Māori community. Ari has a warm, friendly personality and went out of her way to make my experience enjoyable throughout the day. As a deaf traveler, I especially appreciated the care she took to ensure my communication needs were met. She also made sure the guides at Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton were aware of my deafness and communication preferences, which helped me fully enjoy both experiences. The tour was well organized, informative, and filled with beautiful scenery along the way. I left with a deeper appreciation for New Zealand, its people, and its culture. I highly recommend this tour, and Ari (Arahia) in particular, to anyone visiting New Zealand.

svetlanakE2531AXJun 10, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Awesome tour

Cam was an awesome guide/driver and my fellow passenger was great too (I did I tour party of a grand total of 2.) I would give Cam a 6 star if I could. Highly recommend. I hope you get him on your North Island adventures. Great trip with Cheeky Kiwi highly recommend the Auckland to Rotorua trip (via Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton.) I wish Cam could drive me all the way back home (Haast.) 11/10. Hope my Christchurch to Queenstown (via Tekapo and Mt Cook) are just as awesome as Cam. I was thinking of doing the Auckland to Rotorua trip just through Hobbiton but thankfully I did it with Waitomo caves. Huge shout out to the Matua (I forgot your name) at Waitomo Caves and Lana at Hobbiton.

Z650ZCscottmMay 21, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Would do it again!

I had a great day on this tour! Trent was a great guide who made sure everyone had a good time. He was well organised and we were never in a rush! He even had snacks! ;) Waitomo was a very unique experience withe the boat going through the cave and Hobbiton was great as well! You could even go to Hobbiton without having seen the Lord of the Rings/Hobbit movies. So much love for detail there! Would definitely recommend the Tour!

154mktApr 18, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, 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. Remaining hours will be allotted for the travel time