From Auckland: Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves Guided Tour with Lunch (Shared Tour with Lunch)

Your experience

Visit two popular New Zealand attractions

Whether you are a movie buff, a nature enthusiast, or a family looking to get away for the day, this day tour might just be the right pick for you. Your journey starts with a pickup in Auckland. Enjoy the scenic views of the Kaimai range en route to Hobbiton. Once you reach there, you hop on a bus that will take you to the set. Get to see lush hills and the picturesque film set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Once you reach the destination, your Hobbiton guide will take you through famous sites like Bag End, the Party Tree, and the Green Dragon Inn, each crafted with meticulous detail to bring Tolkien's Shire to life. Walk into a hobbit home and see a fully stocked pantry or the cute furniture arranged in the living room before heading to the Green Dragon Inn where you enjoy a beverage from the Southfarthing Range, on the house.

Drift beneath a starry sky

After Hobbiton, the tour continues to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves where you will be guided through stunning stalagmites and stalactites. Sail on a boat into the Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of glowworms light up the dark caverns in a soft, blue-green bioluminescent effect, making the cave feel magical and serene. Listen to your Maori guide give fascinating insights into the formation of the caves, the life cycle of the glowworms, and the significance of the caves to Māori culture before heading back to Auckland.

Know before you go

What to bring

• Pack for a weather-ready kit; who knows when the skies might decide to be moody?

• Bring local currency for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

What's not allowed

• Keep in mind that chilly bins, boxes and bags carrying food and frozen goods, liquids/creams not carried in watertight containers, flammable liquids, explosives, hazardous substances, solvents, fuel, batteries (unless used in portable consumer electronic devices), weapons, illegal drugs or substances are not allowed on this experience. 

• Due to venue restrictions, pets are not allowed on this experience.

• Photography is not allowed at Waitomo Glowworm Caves.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible. 

• Your guide dogs are welcome on the bus.

Additional Information

• Facilities: Free Wi-Fi and toilets.

• Children below 14 years must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 years or over.

• Each guest is limited to one carry-on item with dimensions not exceeding 20 cm high x 28cm deep with a maximum length of 400mm. The maximum weight is 5kg.

Hobbiton Movie Set is a meticulously crafted film set located in the heart of New Zealand's North Island. Originally constructed for the Lord of the Rings trilogy, it has been preserved and maintained as a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the miniature village, which features hobbit holes, the Party Tree, the Mill, and the iconic Green Dragon Inn, all set against a stunning landscape. The tour typically begins with a guided walk through the village, sharing stories of how the set was built and filmed. You can learn about the filming process, the design inspiration, and the ongoing care of this magical site. The experience usually concludes at the Green Dragon Inn, where you can enjoy a complimentary drink and soak in the authentic movie atmosphere. What makes Hobbiton truly unique is its seamless blend of cinematic history and natural scenery, offering a fairy-tale experience that appeals to all ages and interests. The set's authenticity and detailed craftsmanship create a captivating environment, allowing visitors to feel like they've entered the world of hobbits, elves, and wizards.

Booking your Hobbiton visit online guarantees skip-the-line entry, ensuring a seamless experience. You can plan your day in advance, secure your preferred time slot, and compare different tour options for the best value. Avoid queues and enjoy guaranteed access to this iconic site with ease and confidence.

Hobbiton was originally built for the filming of The Lord of the Rings trilogy in the early 2000s. The set's preservation and transformation into a tourist attraction began shortly after filming concluded, opening to visitors in 2002. The site quickly became one of New Zealand's most iconic landmarks, attracting fans and travelers worldwide. Over the years, the set has been carefully maintained and expanded, reflecting both its cinematic significance and cultural heritage. Recent improvements include new walkways, enhanced visitor facilities, and ongoing landscape restoration to ensure the set's authenticity and beauty. Hobbiton not only preserves film history but also celebrates New Zealand's natural environment, making it a symbol of both cultural pride and natural splendor.

Hobbiton typically operates daily with guided tours running throughout the day. Tour times vary seasonally, so it's advisable to book in advance. The site is accessible year-round, with occasional closures for maintenance or weather conditions.

Visit during the spring or summer months for ideal weather and lush scenery. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds for the best photo opportunities.

Inside Hobbiton, you'll encounter a charming array of hobbit homes with distinctive round doors and cozy gardens. The tour includes visits to key locations such as Bag End, the Party Tree, the Mill, and the Green Dragon Inn, each with its own story. Visitors can also explore the surrounding landscape, which offers some of the most scenic views in New Zealand. The set’s authenticity allows guests to picture themselves in the memorable scenes from the films, with plenty of photo opportunities at every turn. The experience combines cinematic history, natural beauty, and interactive elements for an engaging visit that captures the magic of Tolkien's world.

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Bring weather-appropriate clothing, as outdoor conditions vary. Photography is encouraged, but flash may be restricted indoors. The tour involves moderate walking; suitable for most fitness levels. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Respect the set and follow guides' instructions. Do not touch or climb on set pieces. Keep noise to a minimum to preserve the atmosphere. Smoking, eating, and drinking outside designated areas are prohibited. Please dispose of trash responsibly and respect wildlife.

A visit to Hobbiton offers a enchanting escape into the world of Middle-earth, combining cinematic history, stunning landscapes, and immersive storytelling. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious traveler, this experience promises memories that last a lifetime. The site’s authenticity and captivating scenery make it a must-see destination in New Zealand, perfect for photography, relaxation, and cultural enrichment.

From Auckland, drive approximately 2 hours south to Matamata, then follow signs to Hobbiton. Public buses and organized tours are also available from major cities; many include transportation and guided commentary.