How to Plan Your Hobbiton & Rotorua Including Wai-O-Tapu – Small Group Tour from Auckland

Are you interested in exploring the North Island of New Zealand and seeing some of the most popular attractions in one day? Then the Hobbiton & Rotorua Including Wai-O-Tapu – Small Group Tour from Auckland might be the perfect choice for you!

This fully guided tour offers a hassle-free experience of visiting two of the most sought-after destinations on the North Island. With a maximum of 11 people in the group, you can enjoy personalized attention from the guide while exploring the breathtaking scenery and taking in the many cultural experiences that come with the tour.

Overview of the Tour

The Hobbiton & Rotorua Including Wai-O-Tapu – Small Group Tour from Auckland includes a guided tour of Hobbiton movie set and a visit to the Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland in Rotorua. The tour starts in the early morning, with the pick-up from hotels in Auckland, and takes about 13 hours to complete. The tour finishes with a drop-off at the original pickup point.

Guided Tour of Hobbiton

The first stop of the tour is a guided tour of Hobbiton movie set, located in Matamata. This tour is perfect for those who are fans of “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” films, as you will get to hear behind-the-scenes stories of the making of the films and see some of the film locations up close.

During this tour, you will visit 44 hobbit holes, including the famous Bag End and have the opportunity to take photos in front of the iconic hobbit holes. The highlight of the tour is a visit to The Green Dragon Inn, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland

After the tour of Hobbiton, the tour continues to Rotorua, known for its unique geothermal activity. The Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland is one of the most colorful and diverse geothermal attractions in New Zealand, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in geology and natural wonders.

The tour includes a visit to the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts daily at 10:15 am. You will also visit the famous Champagne Pool, which is known for its brilliant colors and crystal clear water. Additionally, you will see many other geothermal features such as volcanic mud pools, sulphur springs, and geothermal craters.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The Hobbiton & Rotorua Including Wai-O-Tapu – Small Group Tour from Auckland includes:

• Small Group and Fully Guided Tour
• Entry Tickets
• Snacks
• Gratuities
• Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included unless they are specified in the tour description.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour starts at 6:30 am, with a pick-up from selected hotels in Auckland. The pick-up points and details will be provided to you once you book the tour through the following link Book the tour here.

Conclusion

The Hobbiton & Rotorua Including Wai-O-Tapu – Small Group Tour from Auckland is an excellent choice for anyone interested in experiencing the natural wonders and cultural highlights of the North Island. With a guided tour of Hobbiton and a visit to the Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland, you will have a day full of adventure, relaxation, and learning. So, don’t hesitate, book the tour now and get ready to have a memorable experience!

Insider’s Guide: Exploring Auckland and Beyond

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, attracting millions of visitors each year. Being the country’s primary hub means that many tourists use it as a starting point to explore other regions. Here is an insider’s guide to Auckland and beyond, with recommendations on local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Auckland’s attractions range from indoor museums to outdoor volcanoes, island getaways, and beyond. The Sky Tower is an iconic landmark and one of the city’s most popular attractions. Visitors can take in panoramic views of the city and even bungy jump from the very top. Another popular destination is Waiheke Island, a picturesque island located just forty-five minutes from downtown Auckland.

The island is famous for its wineries, beaches, and local artisans, a perfect spot for a day trip. Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki located at the heart of the city offers a mix of modern and classic art. Auckland War Memorial Museum is also a must-visit spot filled with extensive exhibits on New Zealand’s history, including the Maori culture and their contributions.

Dining Spots

Auckland’s dining scene is an eclectic mix of cultures and flavors. One can go from enjoying traditional fish and chips to high-end sushi in a matter of walking minutes. Britomart, located in the heart of the city, is the top dining spot. On the weekends, you can visit the Parnell Farmers Market, specializing in locally produced food from sustainable sources.

If you want to enjoy the spectacular views alongside delicious food, The Sugar Club at Sky Tower is an excellent choice. Fed Deli, located by the water’s edge, offers an extensive selection of sandwiches and meats and other European foods.

Cultural Experiences

To get a taste of Maori culture, the Auckland War Memorial Museum offers live cultural shows on the haka, a traditional dance, and song performed by the Maoris. In addition, the Tamaki Maori Village, located in Rotorua, provides a more immersive and authentic experience.

Moreover, the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki features local and international exhibitions, while the Auckland Writers Festival, held annually in May, showcases a variety of literary talents.

Local History

The Auckland Domain is the city’s oldest park and the former site of a Maori Pa, a fortified village. Here, you can find the War Memorial Museum and the Domain Wintergarden, featuring two impressive greenhouses. The Auckland Zoo, established in 1922, is also a must-visit attraction for animal lovers.

Further down in Rotorua, visitors can enjoy geothermal wonders. The Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, located twenty-five minutes away from Rotorua city, offers a range of geysers, hot pools, and bubbling mud pools.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While the local attractions in Auckland are excellent, one can take a day trip and access some hidden treasures. The Coromandel Penninsula, located just two hours north of the city, offers stunning beaches, hot springs, and hidden waterfalls. A day trip to the Hobbiton Movie Set, situated two hours away from the city, is a fantastic experience for Lord of the Rings fans. One can trek through the lush countryside and explore the intricate details of the movie set.

Another beautiful spot is Piha Beach, frequented by locals looking for waves and adventure activities such as surfing, hiking, and canyoning.

In conclusion, Auckland offers a broad selection of attractions, local dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a history enthusiast, there is something for everyone.