How to Plan Your Tauranga Shore Excursion: Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
If you’re a fan of “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies, then you won’t want to miss the opportunity to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set on a Tauranga shore excursion. This tour takes you from the port of Tauranga to the Shire, where you’ll see iconic movie structures such as hobbit holes, the party tree, and the Mill. You’ll even get to sip a drink at the Green Dragon Inn and dress up in your favorite LOTR costume during a stop at McLaren Falls Park.
Booking the Tour
To book the Tauranga Shore Excursion: Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, simply visit Viator’s website and follow the easy online booking process. The tour is backed by Viator’s worry-free policy, which guarantees your return to the ship on time. The tour includes live commentary from your knowledgeable guide, an air-conditioned vehicle, and gratuities. Lunch is not included, so plan to bring your own or purchase it at one of the stops.
Meeting Point and Pickup
The meeting point for the tour is Salisbury Avenue Mount Maunganui, Tauranga. You’ll meet outside the pedestrian gate of the Tauranga main port on the corner of Salisbury Avenue and the Mall, under the flag. Make sure to arrive early to ensure you don’t miss the departure time.
Tour Itinerary
Once you’ve boarded the air-conditioned vehicle, your driver/guide will begin the journey to Hobbiton Movie Set. Along the way, they’ll share insider tales about the making of LOTR and answer any questions you may have. You’ll have plenty of time to take photos at each stop and explore the Hobbiton Movie Set at your leisure.
After your visit to the Movie Set, you’ll make your way to McLaren Falls Park. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to dress up in your favorite LOTR costume and take photos at the waterfalls. The park is also a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch and soak up the stunning natural scenery.
Finally, you’ll make your way back to the meeting point, where you’re guaranteed a worry-free return to your ship in Tauranga.
What to Bring
To make the most of your Tauranga Shore Excursion: Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, here are a few items you may want to bring with you:
- A camera or smartphone with plenty of storage space to capture all your favorite movie moments
- Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as Tauranga can get quite hot during the summer months
- A picnic lunch or snacks, as lunch is not included in the tour
- Comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be walking and exploring at the Hobbiton Movie Set and McLaren Falls Park
- Cash or credit card for any extra purchases, such as souvenirs or food at McLaren Falls Park
Final Thoughts
The Tauranga Shore Excursion: Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Movie Set Tour is a must-do for any LOTR or Hobbit fan. With plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration, this tour is a great option for families and individuals alike. Make sure to book early and arrive at the meeting point on time to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable excursion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tauranga
If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, Tauranga can make an excellent addition to your itinerary. This coastal city presents an array of attractions, scenic views, and outdoor activities. However, many visitors have various doubts and questions about Tauranga. To satisfy your curiosity, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answered them in detail.
1. Where is Tauranga located?
Tauranga is located in the north island of New Zealand. It is a coastal city situated in the Bay of Plenty region, towards the eastern side of the island.
2. What is the best time to visit Tauranga?
Tauranga has a subtropical climate, and the temperatures usually range between 15°C and 25°C. The best time to visit Tauranga is from March to May or between September and November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is in all its glory.
3. How do I get to Tauranga?
You can get to Tauranga by both air and land transportation. The city has its airport, Tauranga Airport, that operates both domestic and international flights. The major airlines that service this airport include Air New Zealand and Sunair. You can also drive to Tauranga from Auckland, which takes around three hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus or train from Auckland to Tauranga.
4. What are the popular attractions in Tauranga?
Tauranga is a city full of attractions, and some of the most popular ones include:
- Moun Maunganui
- Tauranga Art Gallery
- Historic Village
- Minden Lookout
- Fernland Spa Thermal Mineral Springs
- Comvita Visitor Centre
- Kiwi 360
5. What activities can I engage in while visiting Tauranga?
Tauranga has an extensive range of activities that you can engage in. Some of the popular activities include:
- Visit the beaches
- Hiking
- Water sports
- Visit the various parks and gardens
- Boat tours
6. What is the culture of Tauranga like?
Tauranga has a diverse culture with a blend of Maori and European heritage. The region is rich in culture, arts, and traditions. The city is famous for its Maori cultural performances, and you can watch them at the local marae.
7. Do I need to rent a car to explore Tauranga?
Renting a car in Tauranga is not necessary, but it can make your exploration of the city and its environs much more comfortable. The city is well connected by public transportation, and taxis and Uber services are readily available.
8. What is the local cuisine like in Tauranga?
Tauranga boasts an array of local cuisines. The city has a mix of international restaurants and local cafes that serve traditional food such as Seafood, Organic produce, and kiwifruits.
9. What are the accommodation options available in Tauranga?
Tauranga has a myriad of accommodation options that cater to all kinds of travelers. The city has top-end hotels, budget-friendly hostels, quaint B&Bs, and vacation rentals.
10. What are the nearby destinations to visit from Tauranga?
Tauranga’s location makes it a perfect stop for exploring other nearby locations. Some of the destinations that you can visit from Tauranga include Rotorua, Hobbiton, and Waitomo Caves.
Conclusion
Tauranga is an enchanting city in New Zealand that offers something for every traveler. By visiting the attractions listed above and indulging in the activities you are interested in, you are guaranteed to have a fulfilling experience in Tauranga.
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