Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton (One Way)

North Island

Cheeky Kiwi Travel

from

AU$281

per adult

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Close-up of wildflowers in front of a round blue Hobbit door at the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, New Zealand

Experiences

Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton

Family-friendly Tours

Small Group Tours

Day Tours

North Island

Start: Auckland

Finish: Rotorua

Location: Auckland

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 8 hours

Details

Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Tour Highlights

Travelling from Auckland to Rotorua through the heart of the Waikato countryside offers a mix of striking landscapes and memorable stops. The journey begins with views of lush farmland, rolling green hills, and distant mountain ranges that showcase the natural beauty of the North Island. Along the way, keep an eye out for grazing sheep and cattle, making it a photographer’s dream.

This route is more than just a drive—it’s a chance to experience rural New Zealand at its best. Each town you pass adds character to the journey, from the peaceful farmlands to the quirky charm of places like Tirau. As the landscape gradually changes, anticipation builds for one of the most iconic stops on the tour.

Visit the Famous Hobbiton Movie Set

A visit to Hobbiton is a true highlight of the day. Nestled on a working sheep farm, this enchanting 12-acre movie set is where scenes from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were filmed. Guided tours take you through 44 colourful hobbit holes, past the Mill and the Green Dragon Inn, while stories from behind the scenes bring the magic of Middle-earth to life.

After exploring Hobbiton, the drive south continues with scenic gems like the leafy Fitzgerald Glade, where native trees form a natural tunnel over the road. As you approach Rotorua, steam vents and bubbling mud pools signal your arrival in New Zealand’s geothermal capital. The city offers a fascinating contrast of geothermal energy, cultural richness, and lakeside beauty—a perfect way to end an unforgettable day.

Traditional hobbit house with a red door beside a winding dirt path at the Hobbiton Movie Set near Matamata

Golden hour light over winding garden paths, lush greenery and Hobbit holes at the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata

A round green door set into a hillside with flowering plants and a stone path at the Hobbiton Movie Set

Cosy interior of the Green Dragon Inn at Hobbiton featuring a fireplace, timber beams and rustic Hobbit-style furniture

Iconic round doorway view from inside Bag End, looking out to misty hills and garden paths in Hobbiton, New Zealand

Hobbit house with a yellow round door, rustic garden, and wooden picket fence at the Hobbiton Movie Set

Hobbit hole with a blue door surrounded by wildflowers and greenery at Hobbiton Movie Set in bright sunshine

Historic Rotorua Museum with Tudor-style architecture set in the Government Gardens under a blue sky

Warm fireplace and rustic seating inside the Green Dragon Inn at the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, New Zealand

Lush green hills and Hobbit holes set along a peaceful lakefront at the Hobbiton Movie Set in New Zealand

Highlights

Waikato
Alexander Family Sheep Farm
Shire's Rest
Hobbiton & Bagshot Row
Rotorua
Tirau

Inclusions

Hobbiton Ticket
Fully Guided Tour
Water available & snacks provided

Age Information

Adult: 15 years +
Children: 4-14 years
Infants: Under 4 years

Cancellations & Refunds

Outside 24 hours before travel: Full refund**
Within 24 hours before travel: No refund

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

Itinerary

Hobbit Hole, Hobbiton Movie Set, Matamata

Experience the perfect blend of cinematic magic, stunning landscapes, and geothermal wonders on this one-day journey from Auckland to Rotorua, featuring a visit to the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set in the heart of Middle-earth and the highlights of Rotorua City.

1. Departure from Auckland

Your day begins with a pick-up from your Auckland accommodation in a comfortable, modern minibus. Relax as you travel south through the beautiful Waikato countryside, the world’s largest farming region. Along the way, enjoy fully guided commentary, take in the breathtaking scenery, and spot farm animals, rolling hills, and picturesque mountains—ideal for photo opportunities.

2. Arrival at Hobbiton

Our journey brings us to the Alexander Family Sheep Farm and Shire’s Rest, the gateway to Hobbiton. Here, you’ll see thousands of sheep, enjoy a bite to eat, grab a coffee, or indulge in a refreshing ice cream while we arrange your tickets for the movie set.

3. Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Board one of Hobbiton’s iconic green buses for a two-hour guided tour of this enchanting 12-acre movie set. Your professional Hobbiton guide will lead you through the lush Shire, where you’ll explore 44 hobbit holes, stunning gardens, and iconic locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Hear behind-the-scenes stories and movie-making secrets before finishing your visit with a refreshing beverage at The Green Dragon Inn, the famous Hobbiton pub.

4. Journey to Rotorua

After your unforgettable Hobbiton experience, the journey continues south toward Rotorua, a region renowned for its geothermal activity. On the way, pass through the quirky town of Tirau, known as the corrugated iron sculpture capital of the world, and the picturesque Fitzgerald Glade, where tree-lined roads create a natural tunnel.

5. Rotorua City Highlights**

Upon arrival in Rotorua, your guide will show you some of the city’s most iconic sights, including Lake Rotorua, the historic Government Gardens, the charming Blue Baths, bubbling thermal springs, and the renowned Polynesian Spa.

**Guests who did not book afternoon activities, will be dropped off in Rotorua before the highlights tour.

6. Drop-off in Rotorua

Your tour concludes with a drop-off at your central Rotorua accommodation or a main city location. Reflect on an incredible day filled with memorable experiences, stunning landscapes, and unique attractions.

This ultimate Auckland to Rotorua small group tour combines comfort, expert guidance, and the best of New Zealand’s natural and cultural wonders!