Rotorua: One-Way Trip to Auckland via Hobbiton & Waitomo

Matamata-Piako District, Rotorua



Enjoy a trip from Rotorua to Auckland that includes a visit to two iconic New Zealand destinations - Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves. Depart from Rotorua and enjoy a fantastic introduction to Auckland.

Experience a full-day guided tour from Rotorua to Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves, suitable for small groups and families.

Start your day with a pickup from your Rotorua accommodation at 8:00 AM. Travel in comfort with an expert guide offering commentary and insights on the region’s landmarks and natural features.

Your first stop is the Hobbiton Movie Set, where a specialist guide leads you through 44 Hobbit holes and key locations such as the Party Tree and Bilbo’s house, Bag End. Enjoy a complimentary ale, cider, or ginger beer at the Green Dragon Inn before a buffet lunch in the Party Marquee.

Next, travel through scenic countryside beside Lake Karapiro and the Arapuni Dam to Waitomo Caves. An experienced guide escorts you on a walking tour inside the caves, including an iconic boat ride through the glowworm grotto (subject to water levels) to view thousands of glowworms unique to the southern hemisphere.

Conclude the tour with transportation and drop-off at your Auckland inner city accommodation, with an optional stop for afternoon tea.

Highlights

  • See glowworms and explore caves at Waitomo
  • Buffet lunch at Hobbiton festive party tent
  • Transport to and from Rotorua and Auckland accommodations
  • Guided tour of Hobbiton Movie Set
  • Comfortable travel between destinations

Includes

  • Pickup from selected Rotorua accommodation
  • Admission and guided tour of Hobbiton Movie Set
  • Buffet lunch in the Party Marquee
  • Ale, cider, or ginger beer at the Green Dragon Inn
  • Hobbiton souvenir voucher
  • Admission and guided tour of Waitomo Caves
  • Boat ride through Waitomo glowworm grotto
  • Drop-off at Auckland inner city accommodation

Excludes

  • Additional food and beverages beyond those specified

Important Information

  • From April to November, construction occurs at Hobbiton to prepare a new feature for tours starting in December
  • Waitomo Caves include staircases with approximately 75 steps to navigate

Cancellation Policy

Full refund available for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance.

For the best experience, wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket. Booking early is recommended to secure your spot, especially in peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes guided visits to the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo glowworm caves, buffet lunch, and transport from Rotorua to Auckland.
The tour starts with an 8:00 AM pickup from your accommodation in Rotorua.
It is a full-day tour covering travel, guided tours, and lunch, with total duration around 9 to 10 hours.
Pickup is only available from accommodations in Rotorua, so staying within the city is required for this tour.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but children must be supervised, especially in the Waitomo caves.
Comfortable shoes and a light jacket are recommended for the cool cave environment; cameras are often allowed but check guidelines on the day.
Lunch is served at the Hobbiton festive party tent with a buffet style meal included.
Private group bookings may be available; check with the tour operator for options and availability.
Yes, transportation from Rotorua to Auckland is included as part of the full-day guided tour.
The caves are visited during daytime as part of the guided itinerary; exact timing varies but is optimized for optimal glowworm viewing.

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