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Product #617325
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Auckland Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton movie set private tour
Auckland Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton movie set private tour
Auckland Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton movie set private tour
Auckland Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton movie set private tour
Auckland Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton movie set private tour

Auckland Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton movie set private tour

New Zealand-north island , Auckland
Free cancellation 60 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site
  • Experience 2 world-famous New Zealand attractions: Visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the Hobbiton movie set, the original setting for The Lord of the Rings.
[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK
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Sightseeing Tours

Tour TypePrivate tour
Transportation methodTransfer from meeting point, Hotel transfer
Departure TimeStandard Departure (8-9 am)
Minimum participant requirement2 travelers
Tour typesGuided tour
Meal arrangementArrange yourself
Additional service & facilityTransfer included
Sightseeing typeNatural sights, Firefly watching
TransportCharter car, Walking

Product Info

-What you can expect-
Experience 2 world-famous New Zealand attractions on a luxury private tour.

On the way to Waitomo, you'll pass through the beautiful countryside of Waikato and King Country. Your experienced and knowledgeable local guides will tell you about New Zealand and the extraordinary places you'll see along the approximately 2.5-hour journey from Auckland to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Driving southward, you'll see the sacred Taupiri Mountain as well as Ngaruawahia, the site of the famous Turangawaewae Marae (Maori meeting place) and the seat of New Zealand’s Maori King. At Waitomo, you'll experience the world-famous Glowworm Caves on a 45-minute tour, which includes a boat ride on an underground stream to view the magically dazzling glowworms.

Next, you'll continue on to the Hobbiton Movie Set near the rural town of Matamata, made world-famous as the original setting for extensive portions of Peter Jackson’s 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies. On arrival at the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, you will go on a 2-hour tour to give you astonishing insights into how these movies were made and which parts of the movies were filmed here. Not only movie fans will enjoy this unique experience with inside views of the Hobbit village including Hobbit Holes, Bag End, The Green Dragon Inn and astonishing facts about the filmmaking and spectacular landscape all around. Then return to Auckland after a great tour where you have been able to see 2 of New Zealand’s most famous attractions in one day!

Purchase Notice

Duration: Lasts 11 hours

Reminders

  • Please refer to your voucher for final information regarding meeting points, pick-up locations, and pick-up time

  • Meeting point description: Please indicate if you would like your pickup at Sky Tower (Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010) or in your location in Downtown Auckland at checkout.

  • A minimum of 2 people is required to book this tour

  • Please bring outdoor clothing for the day’s weather conditions and comfortable flat walking shoes, sun hat, sunscreen and your camera

FAQ

1. Why is visiting the Waitomo Glowworm Caves considered a unique experience in New Zealand?

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves offer a truly magical experience, primarily known for the Arachnocampa luminosa glowworms that illuminate the cave ceilings like a starry night sky. The unique aspect is the silent boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto, allowing visitors to peacefully observe thousands of these tiny creatures in the dark. Beyond the glowworms, the caves also feature impressive limestone formations and a rich cultural history presented through guided tours.

2. What is the recommended time of day or season to visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves?

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves can be visited year-round, as the temperature inside remains consistently cool. While there isn't a single 'best' time of day that significantly alters the glowworm viewing experience, visiting during off-peak hours, usually early mornings or late afternoons, might offer a more tranquil experience. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. The glowworms are always active, regardless of external weather or season.

3. How do the Waitomo Glowworm Caves compare to other glowworm experiences in New Zealand?

The Waitomo Glowworm Caves are globally renowned for their unique boat tour through the Glowworm Grotto, offering a silent, breathtaking view of thousands of glowworms. While other locations in New Zealand, such as Te Anau or Hokitika, also feature glowworm caves, Waitomo is distinguished by the scale of its glowworm population and the iconic serene boat experience, making it a highly sought-after destination for this natural phenomenon.

4. Is it feasible to visit both the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves in a single day?

Yes, it is entirely feasible to visit both the Hobbiton Movie Set and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves in a single day, especially when starting from Auckland. Both attractions are located within a reasonable driving distance of each other in the Waikato region. Many visitors opt for a structured itinerary to efficiently manage travel time and guided tour durations at each site, allowing for a full and rewarding experience of both iconic New Zealand attractions within a day.

5. Are independent visits permitted at the Hobbiton Movie Set, or is a guided tour always required?

Visitors to the Hobbiton Movie Set are required to join a guided tour. Independent entry or self-guided visits are not permitted. The guided tour provides insightful commentary about the making of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies, shares behind-the-scenes stories, and ensures visitors see all the key locations, including the Hobbit Holes, The Green Dragon Inn, and the Party Tree. This structured approach enhances the overall experience.

6. What is the typical duration required for a comprehensive visit to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves?

A comprehensive visit to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves typically takes approximately 45 minutes. This duration includes the guided walking portion through the upper levels of the cave system, where visitors learn about the cave's history and geology, followed by the highlight: a silent boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto to observe the illuminated glowworms. It's an efficient yet immersive experience.

7. How much time is typically needed for a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set?

A guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set typically lasts around two hours. This includes walking through the meticulously maintained Hobbiton village, viewing the various Hobbit Holes, visiting The Green Dragon Inn for a complimentary beverage, and enjoying the picturesque scenery. The tour pace is comfortable, allowing ample time for photos and soaking in the atmosphere of the Shire.

8. What can visitors expect to see and do during a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set?

During a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, visitors can expect to walk through the iconic 12-acre movie set, exploring more than 44 Hobbit Holes, including Bilbo Baggins' house, Bag End. The tour also includes a visit to the Party Tree, the Mill, and The Green Dragon Inn, where guests can enjoy a complimentary alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage. The experience offers numerous photo opportunities and insights into the filmmaking process of Middle-earth.

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