Waitomo Caves & Hobbiton Tour from Auckland
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the mesmerizing Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Discover the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set
- Enjoy a scenic drive through New Zealand's countryside
- Learn about Maori culture and history
- Capture memorable photos of iconic film locations
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Visit to Hobbiton Movie Set
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Personal expenses and gratuities
Itinerary
Pass by: 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: 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.
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.
Time to recharge with a tasty lunch, included as part of your tour. Choose from a fresh selection of savoury bites to keep you going for the afternoon. Relax and enjoy the local flavours before continuing your adventure.
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’.
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.
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.
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour involves walking and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
- Children under 5 years old are not permitted on this tour.
- Please inform the operator of any dietary restrictions in advance.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater, as temperatures can vary.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and film locations.
Cancellation policy
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
- 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
Traveler reviews
Great experience with Cheeky Kiwi Travel
The excursion both to the Hobbiton and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves was very interesting, a real success! We enjoyed the whole day, and Grant, our driver, made it even more interesting with his positive attitude and great knowledge of NZ.
Love Hobbiton and Glow Worm Caves
While a 5:45 am pick up was very early, seeing Hobbiton and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves made it totally worth it. Matt was an excellent guide - he pointed out interesting sites and had good stories. He handled pick up at about 6 hotels (?) after our pick up (there were people in the van when we were picked up) smooth and relatively painless. Hobbiton was a real treat - especially for a LOTR/Hobbit fan (me) however, my husband enjoyed it too. The glowworms were special - definitely something I will remember forever.
Great Sightseeing & Great Tour Guide Liam
Booked with Cheeky Kiwi Tours: Waitomo Caves & Hobbiton Auckland. Liam is a top tier tour guide. From start to finish the full day went well. The fun day of activities surpassed expectations. Friendly client services. All communications were handled competently and quickly. Whole experience was positive, a professionally operated company and staff.
A brilliant experience
Viator and the company gave such great help and advice every step of the booking. The tour company were excellent, on time, tour leader Grant was helpful, kind, just the right amount of chatty and informative and the locations were amazing. Hobbiton was absolutely a highlight of our trip, the most magical and yet professionally run place imaginable. Even in the rain, with golf umbrellas provided! The caves were likewise magic. Be aware that there is a decent amount of walking and negotiating smallish hills, rough ground and steps. I'm a bit lacking in mobility but it is so worth it to push past it, and staff are very supportive! Highly recommend all aspects of the booking.
It was a beautiful...
It was a beautiful experience. I enjoyed the trip. Guide/driver Marc was very knowledgable, helpful and very humble. I highly recommend anyone to this trip with Driver/guide Marc.