How to plan your Hobbiton & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland

Are you planning a trip to New Zealand and looking for the best way to experience two of the North Island’s most popular attractions? Look no further than the Hobbiton & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland!

This full-day combo tour guarantees admission to the Hobbiton Movie Set and a guided tour of the famous Lord of The Rings site. Then, you’ll head to Rotorua to experience the geothermal activity and Maori culture of Te Puia Geothermal Park. Here’s how to plan your unforgettable day:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step is booking your Hobbiton & Rotorua Small Group Tour. It’s important to book in advance to secure your spot and ensure admission to both attractions. You can book directly through Viator using this link: book the tour here.

Step 2: Choose Your Pickup Location

Hotel pick-ups are provided from selected hotels in Auckland. You can select your pickup location when booking your tour. If your hotel is not on the list, simply choose the closest one to you.

Step 3: Get Ready for an Incredible Day

On the day of your tour, be sure to wear comfortable clothing and footwear, as there will be plenty of walking involved. Bring a jacket or sweater as it can get cooler in the evenings. You’ll also want to pack a camera to capture all the amazing sights!

Step 4: Explore the Hobbiton Movie Set

After leaving Auckland, you’ll make your way to the Hobbiton Movie Set. This iconic location was used in Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy and “The Hobbit” trilogy. Your guide will take you through the site, showing you hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and other famous landmarks from the films.

Step 5: Visit Te Puia Geothermal Park

Next, you’ll head to Rotorua to visit Te Puia Geothermal Park. Here, you’ll witness the natural geothermal activity and learn about Maori culture. Don’t miss the chance to see Pohutu Geyser, one of the largest active geysers in the southern hemisphere.

Step 6: Try a Traditional Maori Hangi Meal (Optional)

If you choose, you can opt to try a traditional Maori hangi meal at Te Puia. This delicious feast is cooked using hot stones buried in the ground, a traditional method of Maori cooking. It’s a unique dining experience you won’t forget!

Step 7: Return to Auckland

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll return to Auckland and be dropped off at your hotel. You’ll have plenty of amazing memories and photos to take home with you.

Conclusion

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the best of the North Island on the Hobbiton & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable day of sightseeing!

What’s Included:

• Small Group and Fully Guided Tour
• Snacks
• Bottled water
• Gratuities
• Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
• Lunch unless specified

Pickup Details:

Hotel pick-ups are from the below hotels only. If you do not see your pickup location please select the closest one:

• Cordis, Auckland
• Grand Millennium Auckland
• Heritage Hotel Auckland
• SKYCITY Hotel
• Stamford Plaza Auckland

An Insider’s Guide to Rotorua, New Zealand

Rotorua is a city located on the North Island of New Zealand. Known as the cultural heart of the country, Rotorua is a major tourist destination, offering visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring geothermal wonders to experiencing the indigenous Maori culture, this city has something to offer everyone. In this guide, we will take you through some of the must-see attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Rotorua.

Attractions

Rotorua’s attractions are diverse, ranging from natural wonders to cultural experiences. Some of the top attractions include:

– Te Puia: Te Puia is a geothermal wonderland and a must-visit attraction in Rotorua. Here, you can witness the power of nature as geysers erupt, mud pools bubble, and steam vents hiss. You can also learn about the Maori culture and their history at the Maori Arts & Crafts Institute.

– Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: This geothermal park is known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, bubbling mud pools, and colorful hot springs. The Champagne Pool and Lady Knox Geyser are two of the main attractions here.

– Redwoods TreeWalk: For a unique nature walk experience, head to the Redwoods TreeWalk. This attraction offers a network of suspended walkways and swing bridges through the breathtaking redwood forest canopy.

Dining Spots

Rotorua is known for its delicious food scene, where fresh local produce is incorporated into every dish. Some of the top dining spots include:

– Atticus Finch: This restaurant combines hearty comfort food with sophisticated flavors. It offers a range of dishes to cater to different dietary requirements.

– CBK Craft Bar & Kitchen: This gastropub serves up delicious craft beers and a modern take on pub food. It’s a great spot to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

– Eat Streat: A must-visit dining precinct in Rotorua, Eat Streat offers a range of eateries, cafes, and bars in a lively, vibrant atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences

Rotorua is rich in Maori culture, and there are plenty of opportunities to experience it firsthand. Some cultural experiences to check out include:

– Tamaki Maori Village: This cultural center offers a unique experience, where you can witness Maori traditions, such as a hangi feast, cultural performances, and interactive activities.

– Mitai Maori Village: Another great cultural experience, Mitai Maori Village offers a guided tour where you can learn about the Maori culture, watch a cultural performance, and see a nocturnal kiwi encounter.

– Rotorua Museum: The Rotorua Museum is housed in the iconic Bath House building and offers a range of exhibits that showcase Rotorua’s history, culture, and natural wonders.

Local History

Rotorua has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century, when the first Polynesian settlers arrived in New Zealand. Some historic landmarks to visit include:

– Ohinemutu: A historic Maori village located on the shores of Lake Rotorua. Here, you can see the St. Faith’s Anglican Church, which is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful stained glass windows.

– Government Gardens: Once the site of the famous Rotorua Bath House, the Government Gardens are now a public park that showcases Rotorua’s history and stunning gardens.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

If you’re looking to explore some lesser-known spots in Rotorua, here are some suggestions:

– Kerosene Creek: Located just a short drive from Rotorua, Kerosene Creek is a natural hot spring where you can relax and unwind surrounded by nature.

– Okere Falls: For an adrenaline rush, head to Okere Falls where you can experience white water rafting, kayaking, and river sledging.

– Blue Lake: A hidden gem, Blue Lake is a stunning crystal-clear lake that’s perfect for swimming and water activities.

Conclusion

Rotorua is a unique and exciting destination that offers visitors a blend of natural beauty, culture, and history. Whether you’re visiting for a day or spending a week exploring, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this vibrant city. Use this guide to plan your trip, and be sure to explore both the well-known attractions and off-the-beaten-path spots for a truly unforgettable experience.