Embark on a magical day trip that combines a spell-binding tour of Middle-Earth with one of New Zealand’s most dazzling natural wonders. The iconic Hobbiton Movie Set and the Waitomo Caves are located a few hours south of Auckland and can be enjoyed in a day excursion. Book a tour with InterCity, a New Zealand tourism company who run day packages encompassing both attractions, or hire a car and make the journey yourself.
 
Discover Hobbiton
 
Begin the day with a drive to the rural town of Matamata, a farming area famous for its Thoroughbred horse breeding, and the location chosen by The Lord of the Rings director Sir Peter Jackson as the set for the Shire. You will enjoy a captivating guided tour through the rolling hills of Hobbiton where you will learn how the Shire was created, along with other inside secrets. Next, get up close and personal with the set and roam among the hobbit holes, including Bilbo Baggins’ famous residence at Bag End. In true Hobbit style, quench your thirst with a pint of specially brewed ale at the authentic Green Dragon Inn, or feast on a traditional hobbit dish to complete your experience in Middle-Earth. 
 
Drift through the Waitomo Caves
 
Leaving the verdant mounds of Hobbiton behind, cross the countryside to the town of Waitomo and delve into a maze of caves and underground rivers. There are numerous ways to explore the ancient formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Walking and boat tours are available, however if you are looking for a unique adventure then enjoy one of the Black Water Rafting Experiences and climb, abseil and tube through this subterranean world. The Waitomo Caves are also home to thousands of glowworms. End the day by floating beneath a twinkling galaxy of these tiny luminescent creatures in the Glowworm Grotto, a star-studded natural wonder that is exclusive to New Zealand.

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