Auckland to Rotorua, Hobbiton and Waitomo 1 Way Small Group Tour
Active
13h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set and the stunning Waitomo Glowworm Caves on this one-way small group tour from Auckland to Rotorua. Guided by knowledgeable locals, enjoy a day filled with picturesque landscapes, intriguing cave formations, and an immersive experience into the world of The Lord of the Rings. Capture photos of charming towns, witness the magical glowworms, and savor a complimentary beverage at the Hobbiton pub. Finish your adventure with a scenic drive through Rotorua's highlights before check-in at your accommodation.
- Small group tour with passionate, expert guides
- Visit the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves
- Includes entry tickets, bottled water, and snacks
- Duration: Approximately 13 hours, ending in Rotorua
Available options
Auckland to Rotorua, Hobbiton and Waitomo 1 Way Small Group Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Bottled water & snacks
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Hotel drop off in Rotorua (central locations only)
Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
Hotel pickup in Auckland (listed locations only)
Fully Guided 1-Way Small Group Tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Exiting Auckland we drive south through the stunning Waikato countryside, the most extensive farming area in the world, encountering stunning scenery, mighty rivers, great photo opportunities, beautiful mountains and several farm animals along the way. After learning about some local history we stop in the idyllic little town of Pirongia for a quick coffee break. Continuing our adventure we pass through Otorohanga “The Kiwiana capital of New Zealand”. See all things Kiwi in this unique and charming town.
2
Arriving at our first feature attractions you will be guided through the ancient and amazing caves seeing many different cave formations, including Stalactites, Stalagmites and Lime Columns, before descending even further underground for your Glowworm experience. Board your boat for a cruise on the grotto river with thousands of Glowworms sparkling above you. Unique to New Zealand for over 120 years, Waitomo Glowworm Caves are a must see for any traveller.
3
Stop 3
Arriving at our second feature attraction, Hobbiton, you will have time to buy lunch before boarding one of the big green Hobbiton buses. You then depart on a two and a half hour fully guided tour of this amazing 12 acre movie set with a professional Hobbiton guide, to ensure you get the most out of your visit. During your tour step into the lush pastures of the Shire, visit 44 hobbit holes, see amazing gardens, hear the secrets and stories about the making of the movies and enjoy a cold complimentary beverage at the famous Hobbiton pub ‘The Green Dragon Inn’.
4
Continuing our adventure we depart for Rotorua and pass through Tirau, famously dubbed the 'Corrugated Iron Capital of the World' because of the many unique corrugated iron sculptures and buildings, this town never fails to get a look and a laugh and our guides will point out all the main highlights on the way through.
5
To complete the formal part of the tours first day we arrive in Rotorua and do a quick guided driving tour, seeing the most famous sites in Rotorua city including: Lake Rotorua, Rotorua Museum, Government Gardens, Whangapipiro (Rachel Spring) & the Blue Baths. We then drop you off at your hotel to check in for the night (accommodation not included)
What's not included
Accommodation in Rotorua
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, a moderate amount of walking is involved. Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
Remaining hours will be allotted for the travel time
Important notes
Hotel Pick ups start 20 mins before the tour time. Please check your pick up time to ensure you do not miss your pickup. We are unable to wait for late guests.
You will be picked up in a minibus with Cheeky Kiwi Travel sign-writing on it.
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
