Rotorua to Auckland via Hobbiton Movie Set One-Way Private Tour

Step through the pest-proof gate into another world, where an ancient forest tower majestically above well-maintained walking tracks and the air is filled with birdsong. Explore the Sanctuary at your own pace or with an experienced guide who will help you spot the wildlife, including kākā, takahē, tuatara, kiwi, tīeke and more. Relax in the clearing or take an optional walk up the 16-metre observation tower, offering a unique perspective from within the forest canopy. Sanctuary Mountain is located in the heart of the Waikato, and as a not-for-profit, every visit helps make our conservation efforts possible. So come and share the mauri and mana of Maungatautari. You will come away enriched and enlightened by this spectacular environment.

Experience the real Middle-earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Enjoy a fully guided walking tour showcasing the intricate details, pointing out the most famous locations. Journey past the colourful Hobbit Hole doors including the iconic Bag End, before arriving at Bagshot Row for a glimpse of the interior of a humble Hobbit’s home. End your day with an exclusively brewed beverage at the Green Dragon Inn to conclude your Middle-earth adventure.

Begin your experience with a fully guided 2.5 hour walking tour through Hobbiton Movie Set. Wander past Hobbit Holes, peek inside Bagshot Row, and raise a glass at The Green Dragon Inn. Enjoy a hearty banquet lunch at The Millhouse before going behind the scenes at the Art Department workshop, where your guide reveals the secrets behind Hobbiton's creation and upkeep. The adventure concludes on a secluded outlook with a hobbit-style platter of cheese, chutneys, and fruit enjoyed from a hidden vista tucked away from the bustle of the Shire. This is a 4.5 fully guided experience.

Centrally located in the busy rural Waikato town of Matamata and nestled at the base of the scenic Kaimai Ranges our visitor information staff are local experts and can assist you with all your enquiries. As well as being a departure point for the Hobbiton Movie Set Tours, Matamata offers a wide range of walking and tramping options, golf courses, and an extensive selection of cafes & accommodation.

Come on an electric adventure along the majestic Waikato Te Awa, New Zealand's longest river. Join us for a curated 1-3 day experience on Te Awa 'The Great New Zealand River Ride' or Waikato River Trail. This incredible journey begins or ends at the northern trailhead, just an hour from Auckland International Airport in Ngāruawāhia & takes you through key attractions such as The Hamilton Gardens, The Velodrome, and Cambridge before concluding or commencing at Lake Karapiro. Choose from our carefully crafted packages that include everything you need for a seamless Mighty Waikato River experience. From bikes to kayaks, thrilling jet boat rides, delicious meals, accommodation & transport – we have it all covered. Welcome to River Riders.

Explore the forest together and identify plants and trees used in traditional Māori healing and wellbeing, learning about the properties of local plants. They will introduce you to the tikanga associated with harvesting, preparing and using plants for rongoā from their own experiences. These tours are generally with small groups and offer the opportunity to ask questions.