Rotorua to Auckland via Hobbiton Tour with Lunch - One Way

Rotorua , New Zealand

Rotorua to Auckland via Hobbiton Tour with Lunch - One Way

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(7 reviews)

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About this experience

Travel the short distance from Rotorua to Matamata, home of Hobbiton Movie Set.

Upon arriving at Hobbiton, meet your guide who takes you through this working sheep farm, a prime filming location for The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings movie series with incredible views overlooking the world’s biggest outdoor movie set.

Fans will love exploring the Shire, home to hobbit holes including Bilbo Baggins’s house. Stop for photos in front of the Mill, the party tree and the double-arch bridge as you’re entertained with tales about the making of the films. Explore inside a Hobbit home at BagShot Row.
Then head to the Green Dragon Inn for a complimentary cider, ale or ginger beer.

After your tour of Hobbiton, enjoy an included buffet lunch at The Party Marquee before your day trip ends with drop-off at your hotel in Auckland.

Available options

Rotorua to Auckland via Hobbiton Tour with Lunch - One Way

Pickup included

What's included

Local guide

Drink inside the Green Dragon Inn

GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Hobbiton Movie Set entry and tour

NZ$10 Shopping voucher to be used in the Hobbiton Gift Shop

Drop off at inner city Auckland accommodation

Buffet lunch at Green Dragon Marquee

Pick up from selected inner city Rotorua accomodation

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This trip from Rotorua to Auckland includes the Hobbiton movie set tour 1 hour journey from Rotorua to Hobbiton). Departing from Rotorua at 8am, this is a wonderful way to get to Auckland and include a magical journey through Middle-earth to the Hobbiton Movie Set from “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” films.

On arrival at Shire’s Rest you embark on your Hobbiton movie set tour. This location is the largest “green set” in the world and the only part of the set remaining in New Zealand. You see 44 hobbit holes, the Mill and double arch bridge and the party tree. At this stunning location you can take a photo at the gate to Bilbo’s house, “Bag End”

*please note from April to November 2023 there will be construction on set due to the Bagshot Row Development. This should not affect your tour too much apart from
not seeing Samwise Gamgee’s home & a bit of construction noise. From 1st December 2023 the tour will be an additional 30 min to include the new Bag Shot Row experience.

Stop 2

The tour concludes with a visit to the Green Dragon Inn where you can enjoy a complimentary ale, cider or ginger beer.

After a drink, enjoy a buffet lunch at the Green Dragon Marquee before continuing onto Auckland

Following the Hobbiton tour, enjoy the sumptuous buffet lunch in the Party Marquee which is fit for a Hobbit.

After lunch we drive north through lush Waikato dairy farms and over the Bombay Hills before arriving in Auckland at approximately 3.15pm. You will be transferred to your Auckland inner-city accommodation.

This tour finishes in Auckland and is a one way product.
(2 hour journey from Hobbiton incl. a toilet stop)

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum TWO adults required for this tour to run

The tour at Hobbiton joins a larger group with up to 35 people

Meeting point

The main departure point is the Rotorua iSite. Pick up from selected inner city Rotorua accommodation included. - please advise where you are staying and we can give you directions to the central meeting point or a pick up time.

About Rotorua

Rotorua is renowned for its geothermal activity, Maori culture, and stunning natural landscapes. The city is a hub for geothermal wonders, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pools, making it a unique and appealing destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Te Puia

Te Puia is a geothermal park and cultural center showcasing Maori culture and geothermal activity. Visitors can see geysers, mud pools, and traditional Maori performances.

Nature/Cultural 2-3 hours $45-60 NZD

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

This geothermal park features colorful hot springs, geysers, and bubbling mud pools. It's one of the most visited attractions in Rotorua.

Nature 2-3 hours $38 NZD

Redwoods Treewalk

A unique night walk through the Redwoods forest on illuminated platforms. The experience offers a magical view of the towering trees and the night sky.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours $50-70 NZD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Maori feast cooked in an earth oven using geothermal heat. The meal typically includes meat, kumara (sweet potato), and vegetables.

Dinner Can be adapted for vegetarian and vegan diets

Whitebait Fritters

A delicacy made from tiny whitebait fish, mixed with egg and fried into a fritter. It's a popular dish in the region.

Lunch Contains fish

Rewena Bread

A traditional Maori bread made from fermented potato and flour, cooked in a hangi or oven.

Breakfast/Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Ziplining Mountain biking White water rafting Black water rafting Spa treatments Hot spring soaking Scenic walks Maori cultural experiences

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Rotorua, offering warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the geothermal attractions.

21-25°C 70-77°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

Rotorua is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it's always important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited services or tours
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas

Getting there

By air

Rotorua Regional Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Rotorua Bus Depot

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services to key locations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Rotorua Central Ohinemutu

Day trips

Waitomo Caves

100 km from Rotorua • Full day

The Waitomo Caves are famous for their stunning limestone formations and glowworm caves. Visitors can take guided tours through the caves and experience the magical glowworm displays.

Taupo

60 km from Rotorua • Half day to full day

Taupo is a lakeside town known for its stunning natural beauty and adventure activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and exploring the nearby geothermal parks.

Festivals

Rotorua Festival of Lights • Late November to early January

Pro tips

Visit geothermal parks early in the morning to avoid crowds and see the geysers erupt
Book cultural experiences and tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons
Try local Maori cuisine, such as hangi and rewena bread, for an authentic Rotorua experience
Pack layered clothing, as the weather can change quickly and geothermal activity can make the air feel warmer
Use the AT HOP card for discounted fares on public transport