The 4 Day Waikato Explorer Self Drive blends cinematic highlights with natural attractions in a compact, easy-to-follow itinerary. Start in Hamilton, where riverside walks, blooming gardens and great food create the perfect introduction. Then head to Matamata for a guided Hobbiton Movie Set tour—complete with photo ops and behind-the-scenes stories.
Spend a whimsical night in a themed Hobbit Motel Unit before heading to the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. You’ll float beneath a ceiling of twinkling lights on a boat tour through this magical underground world. Finish your journey in Auckland, where you can explore the city or unwind by the harbour before heading home.
All itineraries can be amended or combined with other itineraries. Please advise amendments when requesting a quote.
Upon arrival in Auckland, collect your car at the airport. Drive south through the lush farmland of the Waikato region, arriving in Hamilton, a city divided by the mighty Waikato River.
The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Consider visiting the beautiful Hamilton Gardens or enjoying a meal at one of the city’s many cafés and restaurants.
Stay overnight in Hamilton.
Drive to Matamata and join a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you’ll explore the iconic film location and gain insight into rural life in New Zealand. After the tour, stop at The Shire’s Rest Café for refreshments or a classic “Second Breakfast.”
Continue your journey through Tirau, known for its boutique galleries and quirky corrugated iron sculptures, before passing through Tokoroa, a town with strong forestry heritage. Arrive in Te Kuiti, the sheep-shearing capital of the world, before making the short drive to Otorohanga and the Waitomo Caves. Spend the night in a unique Hobbit Unit at Woodlyn Park Motels, adding a touch of Middle-earth charm to your stay.
Stay overnight in Waitomo.
Join a guided tour through 250 metres of breathtaking underground scenery at Waitomo, starting with the impressive Cathedral. End your experience with a short boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto, where thousands of tiny glowworms illuminate the cave.
Afterwards, drive north to Auckland, passing through Huntly and Pukekohe along the way.
Spend the morning exploring Auckland, the City of Sails. Take a stroll along Queen Street for some last-minute shopping or enjoy a meal at one of the many cafés and restaurants at Viaduct Harbour. Later, return your rental car at Auckland Airport before catching your flight home.
Most rental car companies allow you to add additional drivers to the rental agreement, but they may charge an extra fee. Check with the rental car provider regarding their policies and any additional costs for adding extra drivers. Each driver must meet the age and license requirements set by the rental company.
Many self-drive packages offer the flexibility to choose from a range of accommodation options. You can often select the type of accommodation that suits your preferences and budget, whether it is hotels, motels / self-contained accommdation, or other types of lodging. Discuss your accommodation preferences with us when booking the package.
Yes, all our self-drive packages are fully customisable. Discuss your requirements with us, so we can help you plan the perfect self-drive holiday that meets your requirements.
Travel insurance is typically not included in self-drive packages, so it is essential to purchase comprehensive travel insurance separately. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events that may occur during your self-drive holiday.
All-inclusive insurance can also be added to your rental car if you book your self-drive package with us.
Our self-drive packages offer a range of rental car options to suit different preferences and group sizes. Common options include economy cars, sedans, SUVs, campervans, and 4WD vehicles. Choose a car that best fits your needs in terms of size, comfort, and terrain suitability.
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