Viator Rating : 5 (552 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.0/10 (Verified Excellent)
Auckland
Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Tour: Small Group, Auckland Pickup
660
Overview
Hobbiton Movie Set & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour From Auckland offers an unforgettable day exploring New Zealand's iconic destinations. This tour is perfect for movie lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, offering a blend of cinematic wonder and natural beauty.
Visitors will step into the magical world of Middle-earth with a fully guided 2.5-hour tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set. Capture memorable photos inside the charming Hobbit Holes and savor a taste of local cider or beer at The Green Dragon Inn. Later, the adventure continues to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where guests can marvel at the enchanting glowworms illuminating the cave.
This experience includes all taxes, fees, entry tickets, and guided tours, ensuring a hassle-free day. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in Auckland City Center, onboard Wi-Fi, bottled water, snacks, and travel in an air-conditioned vehicle. Lunch and gratuities are not included. This tour offers an excellent quality experience with expert guides. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Highlights
Hobbiton Movie Set: Explore the real Middle-earth with a guided tour of the famous Hobbiton Movie Set.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves: Witness the magic of thousands of glowworms in the stunning Waitomo Caves.
Convenient Auckland Pickup: Enjoy hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off in Auckland City Center.
Small Group Experience: Experience a more personal tour with a small group, ensuring individual attention.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides.
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Many enjoyed the comfortable transportation and convenient hotel pickup.
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Visitors highlighted the stunning beauty of both Hobbiton and the Waitomo Caves.
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The small group size allowed for a more personalized and intimate experience.
Some visitors wished they had more time at each location.
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A few reviewers felt that lunch should be included in the tour price.
The Journey
Hobbiton Movie Set
Step into the enchanting world of J.R.R. Tolkien at the Hobbiton Movie Set, meticulously recreated for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Wander through the lush Shire, explore the charming Hobbit holes nestled into the rolling hills, and capture breathtaking photos of iconic landmarks. Conclude your visit with a refreshing drink at the Green Dragon Inn, a cozy pub straight out of the movies. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to relive the magic of Middle-earth and create lasting memories in a truly unforgettable setting.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Descend into the mesmerizing Waitomo Glowworm Caves, a subterranean wonderland illuminated by thousands of bioluminescent glowworms. Embark on a guided tour through this ancient cave system, marveling at the stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations sculpted over millennia. The highlight of your adventure is a serene boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto, where the twinkling lights of the glowworms create a magical, otherworldly spectacle. Witness the breathtaking beauty of nature's artistry and experience the wonder of this unique geological marvel.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes all taxes, fees, entry tickets, and guided tours. Guests can enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in Auckland City Center. Onboard amenities include Wi-Fi, bottled water, snacks, and an air-conditioned vehicle. What is not included is lunch and gratuities. The tour provides a comfortable and comprehensive experience, ensuring visitors can focus on enjoying the attractions.
Hot Tip
Many reviewers suggest wearing comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved at both Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves. Bringing a light jacket is also a good idea as the caves can be cool. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery!
Review Summary
Customers find this tour an exceptional value and must-do New Zealand experience that successfully combines two iconic attractions in one seamless day trip. Travelers consistently praise the impressive detail and authenticity of the Hobbiton Movie Set, the magical glowworm light display at Waitomo Caves, the well-organized tour logistics, and the convenient Auckland hotel pickups—with many describing it as truly transporting them to Middle-earth. The primary concerns noted include the tour's length (full day commitment), lack of wheelchair accessibility, potential for crowded conditions at Hobbiton, and the need for appropriate outdoor clothing and comfortable walking shoes, though most reviewers emphasize these minor limitations don't diminish the overall quality of this immersive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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