Sanctuary Mountain Explorer Pass

Make the first footsteps in the morning dew on the Movie Set as part of our first tour of the day. Your tour guide will escort you through the 12 acre movie set, recounting fascinating details from filming the trilogies and pointing out the most iconic sites and scenes. After a visit to The Green Dragon Inn where you will be offered a complimentary beverage from our exclusive Hobbit Southfarthing range, follow your guide back over the double arch stone bridge to The Millhouse, just across the water from The Green Dragon Inn, where you will be treated to a breakfast spread fit for a Hobbit. After you've had your fill, it's time to make your way back to The Shire's Rest, after all, this is only the second of a Hobbit's seven daily meals.

Your journey begins with a scenic riverside walk, offering breathtaking views over Lake Arapuni. Then, effortlessly cruise along the Waikato River Trail on a state-of-the-art e-bike, soaking in the stunning landscapes before a leisurely lunch at the charming Rhubarb Café or a secluded picnic spot. As the day winds down, immerse yourself in the twilight magic of our Glowworm Kayak Tour. Drift through the serene Pokaiwhenua Canyon, surrounded by shimmering glowworms and the soft sounds of nature - a truly mesmerising experience. Tailored for those who seek premium, private, and unforgettable adventures, this exclusive, all-in-one experience is the perfect way to discover the best of the Waikato in absolute comfort and style.

Discover New Zealand the local way with a Japanese-speaking driver and guide on this exclusive private day tour. Explore the lush green hills, 44 Hobbit holes, and the Green Dragon Inn at the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set (approx. 2.5 hours). Then, journey underground to witness millions of glowing glowworms lighting up a magical subterranean river by boat at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves (approx. 1 hour). Includes comfortable private transport and flexible departures from Auckland or Thames.

Upon the setting sun, your experienced guide will take you through the pest-proof fence to experience the nocturnal forest wonders. Marvel at the twinkling lights of glowworms, see the brilliance of the undersides of silver fern fronds and gaze up at the stars from the top of the tower on a crystal clear night, away from the bright lights of the city. Search by torchlight for spiders, millipedes, beetles and the many species of wētā that venture out at night in search of food. Keep an eye out for the many native birds coming in to roost and discover the Sanctuary's important role as a kiwi stronghold as you listen for their distinctive, piercing calls along with the two-pitched call of the ruru (morepork).

This exhibition invites visitors to explore the Waipā District as a living cultural heartland, where archaeology offers insight into centuries of Māori life, movement, and relationship with the river. Through artefacts, landscapes, and stories, it reveals how the past continues to shape identity, memory, and place in the present.

Travel in style from Auckland to Hobbiton Movie Set - set on rolling farmland, this is the world famous movie set where you'll see the intricately created 'Hobbit holes' the Green Dragon Inn, the Party Tree and so much more cinematic magic. Immerse yourself in the sights, smells, sounds and tastes of the Shire as featured in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Pause at the Green Dragon™ Inn to for a draft of Hobbit™ Southfarthing™, see the remarkable detailing that brought Hobbiton™ to life on screen, and visit the places where key scenes were created. Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as you journey through the unequivocal beauty of the land.