How to Plan Your Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland

Are you looking for an adventure that combines nature, history, and fantasy? Look no further than the Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland. This tour is the perfect opportunity to explore two of New Zealand’s most famous attractions in one day. You’ll have the chance to bask in the beauty of the Waitomo Caves and visit the fictional yet globally famous village of Hobbiton, all while enjoying the personal attention of your expert guide.

Overview

The Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland is one of the most popular tours in New Zealand for good reason. With this tour, you will get to see two of the country’s most famous attractions in one day, and enjoy personal attention from your guide with a group that’s limited to 15 people. You’ll explore the majestic Waitomo Caves, where you can marvel at the mesmerizing light show created by thousands of glowworms, and then head to Hobbiton for a tour of the iconic movie set.

Tour Details

Meeting and Pickup

The tour begins with a central Auckland pickup, meaning you won’t need to worry about transportation to the tour launch point. Pickup locations are limited to hotels within the central Auckland area, so be sure to check if your hotel appears on the list of available pickup points. Your tour guide will be on the lookout for you, and pick-ups begin 20 minutes before the scheduled tour time.

Travel

Once you’re settled into the comfortable transport vehicle, the tour will make its way to the Waitomo Caves, where you’ll be blown away by the underground cave system lit up by thousands of glowworms – a sight you’ll likely never forget. After exploring the caves, you’ll then travel to the movie set of Hobbiton to see the rolling hills and stunning countryside that helped create the iconic movie series.

Duration

The tour is scheduled to last about 12 hours, which includes transportation to and from the launch point, guided tours of both the Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton movie set, and enough time for lunch and shopping at the Hobbiton souvenir store.

What’s Included

Your tour package includes a fully guided tour with a small group of no more than 15 people, bottled water, snacks, gratuities for your guide, and souvenir photos that are available for purchase. Please note that food and drinks are not included unless specified.

Why Choose the Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour?

There are many reasons why this tour is a must-see for visitors to New Zealand. Here are just a few:

The Waitomo Caves Are a Nature Lover’s Dream

The Waitomo Caves are a leading natural attraction in New Zealand, and it’s easy to see why. These caves are filled with mesmerizing displays of natural beauty, thanks to the thousands of glowworms that light up the cave walls like stars.

You’ll Relive the Magic of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy

The Hobbiton movie set is a must-visit for any Lord of the Rings fan. You’ll walk in the footsteps of hobbits, visit the home of Bilbo Baggins, and enjoy stunning views of the lush hills surrounding Hobbiton.

Enjoy Personal Attention from Expert Guides

One of the key benefits of the small group size of this tour is that you can enjoy the full attention of an expert guide who knows the area like the back of their hand. Your guide will give you valuable insights into the history and culture of the sites you’ll visit, making your trip all the more memorable.

Final Thoughts

If you want to explore the stunning natural beauty and fictional yet globally famous sites in New Zealand, it’s hard to beat the Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland. Following a convenient central Auckland pickup, you’ll experience the beauty of the Waitomo Caves and the magic of the Hobbiton movie set, all with the personal attention of expert guides. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable tour – book the tour here and create memories that will last a lifetime.

An Insider’s Guide to Auckland: Experience the Best of the City Beyond the Tourist Trail

If you’re looking to explore Auckland beyond the tourist trail, you’re in for a treat. This city is full of hidden gems that only locals know about. From secret beaches to historic neighborhoods, Auckland has something for everyone. Here’s an insider’s guide to the best of Auckland:

Uncover Hidden Gems: Local Attractions

While Auckland is famous for its SkyTower and Harbor Bridge, there are many other hidden attractions that are worth exploring. For instance, the Auckland Domain is a large public park that is perfect for a picnic with family or friends. You can also visit the Stardome Observatory and Planetarium, where you’ll get a clear view of the stars and planets.

Another must-visit place is the Cornwall Park, where you can take in the sweeping views of the city as you walk up One Tree Hill. You can also spot farm animals grazing in the fields and relax under the shade of the magnificent trees.

Taste Auckland: Local Dining Spots

Auckland’s cuisine is as diverse as the people who live here. For the ultimate foodie experience, head to the iconic Auckland Fish Market. Here you can sample some of the freshest seafood from around New Zealand, and treat your taste buds to a range of exotic dishes.

If you’re looking for something sweeter, make sure you visit Giapo. They serve ice cream that is more than just a treat – it’s a culinary experience. You’ll find unique flavors that you won’t find anywhere else, like Hokey Pokey, Chocolate Sorbet, and Vietnamese coffee.

Immerse Yourself in the Culture of Auckland

Auckland’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, with a mix of both traditional and modern art, festivals, and music. You can explore the city through the eyes of a local and learn about the cultural richness of Auckland.

To experience Auckland’s indigenous Maori culture, head to the Auckland Museum. You can explore the Maori galleries or catch a traditional performance. Another great way to learn about New Zealand’s rich cultural heritage is to attend the annual Maori cultural festival, Te Matatini.

Uncover Fascinating Stories: Local History

Auckland has a rich and fascinating history, and there are many stories that are waiting to be discovered. Explore the Central Business District and you’ll find the Old Government House, which is the oldest surviving public building in Auckland.

If you want a more adventurous experience, explore the abandoned tunnels beneath the city. The tunnels were once used during World War II and the Cold War and are rich with history.

Explore the City Beyond the Tourist Trail: Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique experience in Auckland, visit the Muriwai Beach. You can hike along the black-sand beaches, take in the stunning views of the Tasman Sea or watch the gannet birds as they soar above the sea.

Another interesting spot is Karekare Falls, which was used as a filming location for one of the most famous opening scenes in the movie world – The Piano’s beach scene. The falls are absolutely mesmerizing and are well worth a visit.

In conclusion, Auckland offers a wide range of incredible experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trail. By exploring the hidden gems, tasting the local cuisine, immersing yourself in the culture, discovering the city’s rich history, and following off-the-beaten-path suggestions, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in Auckland.