Private Tour: Hobbiton Movie Set & Hamilton Gardens Experience
Active
12h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit the world-renowned Hamilton Gardens and the Hobbiton Movie Set, all in one day on this luxury private tour from Auckland. Experience the real Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the setting for The Shire that featured in Peter Jackson directed films, “The Lord of The Rings” where you'll see the intricately created 'Hobbit holes', the Green Dragon Inn, the Party Tree, and so much more cinematic magic! And experience the journey of hidden stories, secret symbols, interesting snippets, and new insights into some of our most popular gardens with a café style lunch included.
Available options
Private Tour: Hobbiton Movie Set & Hamilton Gardens Experience
Pickup included
What's included
Chance to step into a real The Lord of the Rings film set
Private transportation
Fully guided private return transfers from Auckland
Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set on a private tour from Auckland
Discover the inside story and hidden meanings in each garden
Uncover the magical beauty of Hamilton Gardens
Luxurious temperature controlled transportation in a minibus
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Listen to fascinating stories from your guide as you explore the 12-acre set
Complimentary pick up and drop off from Auckland
Admission to themed Hamilton Gardens on a self-guided audio tour
Complimentary refreshments and water onboard
Opportunity to have a drink at the cosy Green Dragon Inn
WiFi on board
Admission to 2 hours Hobbiton Movie Set guided tour
Complimentary High-Speed Internet onboard the minibus
A local English-speaking tour escort throughout the tour
Café Style lunch at Hamilton Gardens Café
Complimentary beverages at the Green Dragon Inn
Travel through the Waikato region, which is well known for cattle and dairy farming
Remarkable 360-degree views of the rolling Kaimai ranges
Amazing photo opportunities in front of every hobbit holes
See where major scenes were filmed and discover behind-the-scenes secrets
Detailed itinerary
1
We pickup travellers from most locations in the Auckland CBD location. If your pickup location is not available on the list, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do our very best to accommodate your request.
2
The Bombay Hills are a range of hills to the south of Auckland, New Zealand. Though only a small and seemingly insignificant range of hills, they lie at the southern boundary of the Auckland region, and serve as a divide between Auckland and the Waikato region. directly named after the ship Bombay, The ship itself was named after the Indian city of Bombay (now Mumbai). Bombay Means: a breed of black short-haired medium-sized cat.
3
We stop to get some great coffee at your own expense and a comfort break before we continue our journey into the Waikato region.
4
Stop 4
Walk into the real-world landscape of Middle Earth on a walking tour of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, where you get a behind-the-scenes look at ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit.’ Pause at the Green Dragon™ Inn to for a draft of Hobbit™ Southfarthing™, see the remarkable detailing that brought Hobbiton™ to life on screen, and visit the places where key scenes were created. Look at Bag End, where Frodo and Bilbo’s adventures began. Get lost among the hobbit holes and visit the Green Dragon Inn, the mill, and the Party Tree. Listen to spell-binding tales of how Hobbiton came to be. Your guide will escort you around the set, showing the intricate detailing, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how the movie magic was made.
5
We then depart for Hamilton and stop for a café style lunch before you uncover the magical beauty of Hamilton Gardens. Discover the unexpected, at the Hamilton Gardens, a living museum of gardens from ancient Egypt to modern day. Enter a world of imagination, exploration, beauty, and inspiration. Experience a self-guided tour on a journey of hidden stories, secret symbols, and insights, bringing Hamilton Gardens to life for first time visitors.
After re-joining the luxury coach, you will be back in Auckland at the end of the day.
6
After an exhilarating fun-filled adventure experience at Hobbiton Movie Set & Hamilton Gardens, it is now time to head back to Auckland to conclude your evening and drop-off at your hotel in Auckland.
What's not included
Breakfast
Dinner
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the conditions, Sun protection, jacket/warm layer, & any essential personal items.
Easy and good fitness level required.
This is a guided walking tour and sensible walking footwear is recommended.
Bring a camera or a phone with camera capability as Hobbiton is the perfect place to get some great travel photos.
You must be at least 18 years of age and present a valid photo ID in order to consume alcohol.
Tours are suitable for people of all ages and average fitness. Our scenic walks are short and optional. Please let our guide know at check in if you have any fitness concerns.
Tours operate in all weather conditions; umbrellas are provided in the event of rain.
There is uneven terrain on the set; approximately 75% is wheelchair accessible.
We can accommodate a stroller or a pram, provided it is fully collapsible and can fit in the luggage compartment of our buses.
You must be able to climb and descend stairs and walk on unpaved or uneven terrain.
About Auckland
Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, known for its stunning harbor, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant multicultural scene. With over 50 trails and 22 islands, it's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Auckland Sky Tower
The Sky Tower is Auckland's tallest structure, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
Architecture
1-2 hours
NZD 39 for observation deck, NZD 189 for SkyJump
Auckland War Memorial Museum
This museum offers a comprehensive look at New Zealand's history, culture, and natural environment.
Museum
2-3 hours
NZD 25 for adults, free for children under 15
Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves.
Nature
Full day
Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way
Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Adventure
Half day
Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way
Auckland Zoo
Auckland Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals and offers educational programs and conservation efforts.
Family
2-3 hours
NZD 30 for adults, NZD 18 for children
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hāngī
A traditional Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Meats and vegetables are cooked slowly in the earth oven, giving them a unique smoky flavor.
Dinner
Contains meat, can be vegetarian if requested
Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Dessert
Gluten-free, can be made vegan
Fish and Chips
A classic New Zealand takeaway food, featuring fresh fish (usually snapper or tarakihi) and chips, often served with tartare sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, can be gluten-free if requested
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Skydiving
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Maori cultural performances
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor events. It's perfect for beach activities and hiking.
20-25°C
68-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Auckland is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Auckland Airport • 21 km south of the city center
By train
Auckland Railway Station
By bus
Auckland Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Auckland. The network includes local, frequent, and express services.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Ola
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
CBD (Central Business District)
Ponsonby
Devonport
Mission Bay
Day trips
Waiheke Island
35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Full day
Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Rangitoto Island
25 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Half day
Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Hobbiton Movie Set
2.5 hours by car from Auckland • Full day
The Hobbiton Movie Set is a popular tourist attraction featuring the filming locations from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.
Festivals
Auckland Arts Festival • March
Auckland Diwali Festival • October/November
Auckland Pride Festival • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performances.
- Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day trip, and book a wine tour in advance to ensure availability.
- Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting the La Cigale French Market or the Auckland Night Markets.
- Hike up to the summit of Rangitoto Island for stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
- Use the AT HOP card for easy and discounted public transport fares.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
