How to Plan Your Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves Tour in Small Groups Ex Auckland
If you’re planning a trip to Auckland, then you should consider taking a day tour to visit two of the North Island’s most famous attractions – Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves. The fictional village of Hobbiton and the Waitomo Caves are globally famous and are ranked among the most popular sites of interest in New Zealand. This tour is a great way to visit both sites in one day, enjoy a worry-free travel experience, and have personal attention from your guide as it is limited to 15 people only. Here’s all you need to know to plan your Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves tour in small groups ex Auckland.Where to Book the Tour
Before exploring more about the tour, you should know the right place to book it. We recommend booking the tour with Viator, which is a trusted third-party booking company that offers tours and activities around the world. You can book the tour through Viator’s website using this link: book the tour here.What to Expect
The tour departs from Auckland city center, and the exact pickup location will depend on your hotel. Pickup points are limited to specific hotels only. Please see the list of hotels at the bottom of this blog post. Pickups will start up to 20 minutes before the tour time. With this tour, you’ll have a hassle-free round-trip travel experience with a small group of 15 people maximum. Your experienced guide will ensure that you have the best time possible while visiting two of the most popular attractions in New Zealand. Here’s what’s included in the tour:- Small group and fully guided tour
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Gratuities
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
The Tour Itinerary
Here’s what you can expect on this tour:Morning
A comfortable coach will pick you up from your hotel in Auckland, and you’ll head south towards Matamata. The journey will take approximately 2 hours, and you’ll enjoy a scenic route, which will take you through rolling hills, rural farmland, and the Waikato region, which is known for its dairy farming and racehorse breeding. You’ll arrive at the Hobbiton Movie Set, which is nestled in the heart of Waikato, and spans over 12 acres of stunning farmland. Hobbiton is the film location used for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. You’ll have a tranquil guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, which is an essential experience for anyone who loves the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings movies. You’ll be left speechless as you walk through the door of Bag End, the hobbit home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins. After exploring the Hobbiton Movie Set, you’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at The Green Dragon Inn. This lunch is included in the tour, and vegetarian options are available upon request.Afternoon
After lunch, you’ll head out to Waitomo, which is a small town located in the Waikato region. Waitomo is known for its subterranean world, which is full of beautiful glowworms and limestone caves. You’ll be amazed as you venture underground into the Waitomo Caves, where you’ll be mesmerized by the wonders of the underground world on this fully guided tour. You’ll explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and see beautiful stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years. You’ll be taken on a boat ride through the glowworm grotto, which is an unforgettable experience.Pickup Points
The tour pickup points are limited to the following hotels only. If you do not see your pickup location, please select the closest one to be picked up from. This tour requires a minimum number of bookings to operate, so it’s essential to check that the tour is running before booking your travel arrangements. If the tour doesn’t reach the minimum bookings required, it will be canceled, and you’ll receive a full refund.- Amora Hotel Auckland
- Cordis, Auckland
- Five Lamps Suites
- Grand Mercure Auckland
- Grand Millennium Auckland
- Heritage Auckland
- Hilton Auckland
- Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland
- Naumi Auckland Airport
- Park Hyatt Auckland
- SKYCITY Grand Hotel
- SKYCITY Hotel Auckland
- Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
Book Your Tour Now
In conclusion, planning a Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves tour in small groups ex Auckland is easier than you might think. With a reputable third-party company like Viator, you can book your tour with peace of mind that you’re getting the best possible price, and the tour will be well organized. With this tour, you’ll visit both Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves, benefit from a fully guided tour, enjoy lunch at The Green Dragon Inn, and receive snacks and bottled water. All you need to do is select the right pick up point and book the tour here: book the tour here and prepare to be whisked away on a journey of a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions about Auckland
1. Where is Auckland located?
Auckland is located in the North Island of New Zealand. It is situated between the Hauraki Gulf to the east, the Manukau Harbour to the west, and the Waitakere Ranges and Hunua Ranges to the north and south respectively.2. What is the climate like in Auckland?
Auckland has a temperate maritime climate, which means it experiences mild, damp winters and warm, humid summers. The average temperature throughout the year ranges between 10 and 24 degrees Celsius.3. What are some popular tourist attractions in Auckland?
Auckland is home to a range of attractions that draw in visitors from around the world. Some of the most popular ones include:Sky Tower:
This 328-meter tower offers sweeping views of the city, with options to dine, bungee jump, and even skywalk at the top.Auckland Harbour Bridge:
Visitors can climb the bridge to enjoy panoramic views of Auckland and the harbour.Auckland Domain:
This is a large park in central Auckland, which includes the Auckland War Memorial Museum, Wintergarden, and fernery.Waiheke Island:
A quick ferry ride from downtown Auckland, this island is known for its stunning beaches, vineyards, and olive groves.Mount Eden:
This dormant volcano provides a unique view of the city from its peak.4. What is the best way to get around Auckland?
Auckland has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries. The city also has a well-developed network of cycleways and walkways for those looking to explore on foot or by bicycle.5. What is the currency used in Auckland?
The currency used in Auckland is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).6. What is the official language spoken in Auckland?
The official language of New Zealand, including Auckland, is English. However, Maori is also an official language.7. What is the time zone in Auckland?
Auckland is in the New Zealand Standard Time zone, which is GMT+12.8. What are some popular annual events in Auckland?
Auckland is known for hosting a range of annual events, including:Auckland Lantern Festival:
This festival celebrates Chinese New Year with food, music, and lantern displays.Auckland Arts Festival:
This cultural festival features a range of performances across various venues in Auckland.Auckland Anniversary Day:
This public holiday occurs on the Monday closest to January 29th and celebrates Auckland’s founding.ASB Auckland Marathon:
This annual marathon event takes place in October and attracts thousands of runners from around the world.9. What are some must-try foods in Auckland?
Auckland offers a diverse range of cuisine, reflecting its multicultural population. Some must-try foods include:Fish and Chips:
This classic New Zealand dish features battered fish and chips served with tartare sauce.Hāngi:
A traditional Maori feast cooked in an underground pit, featuring meats, vegetables, and stuffing.L&P:
A soft drink made from lemon and paeroa (a type of mineral water), which is a New Zealand icon.Pie:
A savory pastry filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese, and popular among locals as a quick snack or lunch.10. What are some tips for travelling to Auckland?
If you are travelling to Auckland, here are some tips to keep in mind: – Auckland is a popular tourist destination, so plan to book your accommodations and activities in advance. – Make sure to bring a variety of clothing, as the weather in Auckland can be variable. – If driving, be prepared for Auckland’s busy roads and consider using public transportation or taxis instead. – Respect the local Maori culture and traditions, and learn about their customs and beliefs to gain a deeper appreciation of the area.Book Your Tour Now
Auckland offers visitors a vibrant and diverse cityscape to explore. From its stunning natural landscapes to its world-class dining and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in this vibrant New Zealand city. By using this FAQ as a starting point, you can prepare for your Auckland adventure and make the most out of your trip.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Auckland
If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, the city of Auckland should be at the top of your list. This vibrant city has something for everyone, from world-class dining and shopping to beautiful parks and beaches. Here’s how to spend your time as a tourist in Auckland:
1. Explore the Auckland Domain
The Auckland Domain is a large park that sits on the side of an ancient volcano. It’s one of Auckland’s most popular parks, and for good reason. The park is home to several walking trails, beautiful gardens, and even a museum. If you’re interested in learning about New Zealand’s history and culture, the Auckland Museum is a must-visit.
2. Visit the Sky Tower
The Sky Tower is Auckland’s most famous landmark, and for good reason. The tower is 328 meters tall and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. You can even test your courage by walking around the outside of the tower’s upper level on a small platform – the SkyWalk. If you’re really brave, you can even jump off the tower on the SkyJump, a 192-meter controlled descent to the ground.
3. Relax on Waiheke Island
Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island is a beautiful and relaxing destination. The island is home to several wineries and beautiful beaches, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
4. Shop at the Auckland Fish Market
Auckland is well known for its seafood, and there’s no better place to sample it than at the Auckland Fish Market. This bustling market is home to several vendors selling fresh seafood, as well as several restaurants serving up delicious fish dishes.
5. Go on a Harbour Cruise
Auckland Harbour is one of the most beautiful in the world, and the best way to see it is by boat. There are several tour operators in Auckland offering harbour cruises, from relaxing sightseeing tours to high-speed adventures.
6. Visit the Auckland Zoo
The Auckland Zoo is home to over 135 different species of animals, making it a must-visit destination for animal lovers. The zoo is divided into different themed zones, each featuring animals from different parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and Australia.
7. Take in the View from Mount Eden
Mount Eden is the highest natural point in Auckland, and offers stunning views of the city. The hike to the top is relatively easy, and is well worth the effort for the view.
8. Experience the Nightlife in Auckland
Auckland has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing drink or a night of dancing, there’s something for everyone in Auckland.
9. Try some New Zealand Cuisine
New Zealand cuisine is a unique blend of European, Pacific, and Asian influences. Some traditional dishes to try include pavlova (a meringue-based dessert), fish and chips, and meat pies.
10. Enjoy the Beaches
Auckland is home to several beautiful beaches, including Piha, Muriwai, and Takapuna. Each beach has its own unique features and is a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
Book Your Tour Now
Auckland is a city with so much to offer, from beautiful parks and beaches to world-class dining and shopping. Whether you’re interested in history and culture, outdoor activities, or just relaxing, Auckland has something for everyone. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable trip to this amazing city.
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