Experience the Best of New Zealand: Waitomo Caves and The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton from Auckland

Are you planning to visit New Zealand anytime soon? Auckland is one of the major cities in New Zealand and offers a perfect blend of city life, nature and scenic beauty. While the city offers a variety of things to do, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton tour is a must-do activity for all tourists visiting Auckland. This tour will take you on a journey through the underground caves of Waitomo, and then to the magical world of Hobbiton Movie Set. This blog post will provide detailed information on this exciting tour.

What is Waitomo Glowworm Caves and The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton tour?

Waitomo Caves and The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton tour is a full-day tour from Auckland to two of New Zealand’s famous destinations, Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set. The first half of the tour will take you to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves located in the Waikato region. Here, you’ll see the magical illuminated Glowworm Grotto during an underground boat ride on the Waitomo River. After that, you’ll be taken to the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you can pose in front of hobbit holes that were home to characters from “The Hobbit’ and “The Lord of the Rings’ trilogies.

What can you expect on this tour?

Starting with a scenic drive through New Zealand’s North Island aboard a luxury coach, this tour offers an immersive experience for everyone. The tour guide will provide historical and cultural information about the places you visit, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take amazing photos. The first half of the tour will take you through the underground caves of Waitomo, where you’ll see thousands of glowworms light up the dark caves. The second half of the tour will take you to the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you can explore the magical world of Middle Earth and pose in front of hobbit holes.

How long is the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton tour?

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves and The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton tour is a full-day tour that starts at 7:30 am and ends around 8:30 pm. The tour departs from SkyCity in Auckland and offers pick-up and drop-off services from selected hotels.

What is included in the tour?

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves and The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton tour includes a scenic drive through New Zealand’s North Island aboard a luxury coach, an underground boat ride on the Waitomo River to see the illuminated Glowworm Grotto, a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, and a picnic lunch.

What should you bring on the tour?

Make sure to bring comfortable shoes, as there will be a lot of walking involved during the tour. Additionally, it’s recommended to bring a raincoat or umbrella in case of rain. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the magical moments during the tour.

How much does the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton tour cost?

The cost of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton tour starts at $329 USD per person, which is inclusive of transportation, guided tour and picnic lunch.

How do you book the tour?

Booking the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton tour is easy. You can book online through the tour operator’s website or speak with a tour representative over the phone.

Conclusion

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves and The Lord of the Rings Hobbiton tour is an exciting and immersive experience that takes you on a journey through the magical world of Middle Earth. From the underground caves of Waitomo to the hobbit holes in Hobbiton, this tour offers something for everyone. Make sure to add this tour to your bucket list on your next visit to New Zealand.

Experience the Best of Auckland: An Insider’s Guide

Auckland, also known as the “City of Sails,” is the largest city in New Zealand and provides visitors with a wide range of activities. However, here are some insider tips on what locals would recommend experiencing to get the most out of Auckland:

Local Attractions: Beyond the Beaten Path

Instead of typical tourist attractions, head to the One Tree Hill Domain. This local gem provides visitors with breathtaking views of Auckland, as well as a peek into New Zealand’s cultural history. Visitors can also explore Cornwall Park, where there’s a network of scenic walking trails as well as grazing cows and sheep.

Another hidden gem is the Kelmarna Organic City Farm. This urban farm is a place where one can experience fresh organic produce like freshly-picked strawberries, organic brown eggs, and homemade jams.

Dining Spots: A Taste of Local Cuisine

Auckland is a city where you can find diverse food options that reflect the local cultural heritage of the city. For a traditional dish that originates from New Zealand, try a seafood pie at The Fridge in Kingsland. For a sweet treat, head to The Chocolate Bar on Queens Street to experience the city’s best hot chocolate, made with melted Belgian chocolate.

For a unique dining experience that not only offers a taste of local cuisine but a glimpse into the city’s European heritage, dine at Pilkingtons. This restaurant is known for its sophisticated ambiance and queen-like décor, with its baroque-inspired interior design.

Cultural Experiences: Art, Music, and Festivals

Auckland is home to numerous indigenous New Zealand art galleries, including the famous Te Uru Gallery. This gallery provides insights into Maori art and culture, and also offers a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year. For live music, head to the Tuning Fork, which hosts local musicians as well as regional and international acts.

The Auckland Arts Festival, celebrated every March, celebrates the city’s unique cultural exchange and artistic expression. The festival brings together an array of international artists in visual arts, music, and theater performances, among others.

Local History: Stories and Legends

The Auckland Harbor Bridge is known for its breathtaking views of the harbor and nearby islands. History enthusiasts can take a guided tour of the bridge and learn about its construction and engineering. Visitors can also take a short ferry ride to the nearby Rangitoto Island, famous for its lava fields and Maori history.

For a spine-tingling experience, head to the Alberton House, which is known for the ghost stories surrounding its family and former occupants. Visitors have reported seeing ghosts and hearing sounds of past families who used to live in this colonial-style mansion.

Off-the-Beaten Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences

For those looking for an outdoor adventure, try kayaking and exploring the city’s harbors, bays, and hidden coves. You can hire kayaks from Mission Bay Watersports for a half-day excursion.

For a serene and calming experience, visit the Chinese Garden, which is located within Auckland Domain. This garden has been designed with principles of feng shui, and visitors can enjoy a cup of Chinese tea while taking in the peaceful surroundings.

In conclusion, Auckland is a city that provides visitors with delightful and unique experiences. From hidden gems to local cuisine, cultural events, and historic landmarks, Auckland offers travelers a chance to engage with the city’s past and present. Use this insider’s guide to make the most of your visit and become an Auckland aficionado.