Hamilton Gardens Nature & adventure

Your journey begins bright and early as you depart Auckland and head towards the lush landscapes of the Waikato region. Upon arrival at Hamilton Gardens, you'll step into a world of botanical wonder, where themed gardens from different cultures and historical periods await your exploration. Wander through the Italian Renaissance Garden, stroll along the tranquil Japanese Garden, and marvel at the intricately designed Indian Char Bagh Garden. After immersing yourself in the beauty of Hamilton Gardens, it's time to continue your adventure to the iconic Hobbiton movie set. As you approach the rolling hills of the countryside, you'll feel like you've stepped into the magical realm of Middle earth. Upon arrival at Hobbiton, you will start with a visit to the official Hobbiton Gift Shop. Here, you can savor the opportunity to sample local delights or enjoy a refreshing beverage at the renowned Shire's Rest Café. Embark on a captivating 2.5 hour guided tour of the sprawling 1,250-acre sheep farm, offering breathtaking views of the majestic Kaimai Ranges Follow your knowledgeable guide as they lead you through the charming hobbit holes, lush gardens, and iconic landmarks featured in the beloved Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films. Don't forget to pose for photos in front of Bilbo's Bag End home and raise a toast at the Green Dragon Inn with a refreshing beverage straight from the Shire. Throughout the day, your guide will share fascinating insights into the making of the movies, behind-the-scenes stories, and intriguing facts about the stunning landscapes that served as the backdrop for these cinematic masterpieces. With memories made and hearts full, you'll return to Auckland, cherishing the enchanting experiences and unforgettable sights you encountered on this magical day trip to Hobbiton and Hamilton Gardens.

Experience the magic of Hobbiton on a private tour, where you'll explore the enchanting landscapes of the Shire. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through a 1,250-acre sheep farm, offering breathtaking views of the Kaimai Ranges. Visit Bag End, the starting point of Frodo and Bilbo’s adventures, wander through charming hobbit holes, and enjoy a refreshing drink at the Green Dragon Inn. This private tour is fully customizable; feel free to add other attractions to fit your desires. Enjoy transportation to and from Auckland, a guided tour of the Hobbiton movie set, admission to the set, and plenty of photo opportunities. Relax in a luxurious Volkswagen Multivan equipped with comfy seating, WiFi, snacks, and bottled water for a comfortable journey. As an optional recommendation, extend your tour to the stunning Hamilton Gardens, a 2023 Travelers' Choice Best of the Best winner, featuring unique themed gardens for an award-winning experience.

Exclusive Waitomo Glowworm and Hamilton Garderns Tour from Auckland starts at 7:00am from Auckland. The entire duration of the trip will be 10 hours. On the way to Waitomo Caves, a brief stop at Taupiri for a quick break to grab a coffee, or breakfast at your own expenses. We head to Waitomo Caves via Otorohanga. While we pass the NZ State 3 and 37, the intersection has a statue of New Zealand's largest extinct flightless bird Moa. We will stop here for quick photos, and start moving to Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Discover an ancient world 30 million years in the making at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Marvel at nature’s light display as you explore on foot and by boat, gliding silently through the Glowworm Grotto’s starry wonderland. Unique to New Zealand, these glowworms create a serene galaxy of living lights. Tours cover two levels: the upper chamber with delicate formations and the lower with stream passages, glowworms, and the Cathedral. Guides, often descendants of the Maori chief who explored the cave, bring its history and legends to life. After completing the Waitomo Caves, we for a lunch break at Waitomo Homestead, or to Otorohanga town. After the lunch break, we head to Hamilton Gardens, a unique garden complex in New Zealand, featuring 18 enclosed gardens that showcase different cultures and historical periods. Each garden tells a story, blending art, design, and nature. It offers visitors a visually stunning and educational experience across beautifully curated landscapes. The self-guided experience roughly takes around 2 hours. After visiting Hamilton Gardens, we head towards Auckland. On the way, we will have stop for a scenic lookout to view New Zealand's longest river - Waikato River. We head back to the accommodation back in Auckland.

Exclusive Waitomo Glowworm and Ruakuri Caves Tour from Auckland starts at 6:00am from Auckland. The entire duration of the trip will be 12 hours. On the way to Waitomo Caves, a brief stop at Taupiri for a quick break to grab a coffee, or breakfast at your own expenses. Note: In this tour, we will provide only water, snacks and lunch at Waitomo Homestead Cafe or any other preferred cuisine (Like Indian or Thai) at Otorohanga. For preferred cuisine 48 hours before booking and notification is required) We head to Waitomo Caves via Otorohanga. While we pass the NZ State 3 and 37, the intersection has a statue of New Zealand's largest extinct flightless bird Moa. We will stop here for quick photos, and start moving to Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Discover an ancient world 30 million years in the making at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Marvel at nature’s light display as you explore on foot and by boat, gliding silently through the Glowworm Grotto’s starry wonderland. Unique to New Zealand, these glowworms create a serene galaxy of living lights. Tours cover two levels: the upper chamber with delicate formations and the lower with stream passages, glowworms, and the Cathedral. Guides, often descendants of the Maori chief who explored the cave, bring its history and legends to life. After completing the Waitomo Caves, we for a lunch break at Waitomo Homestead, or to Otorohanga town. After the lunch break, we will be visiting Ruakuri Caves at Waitomo. Ruakuri Cave is one of the longer caves in the Waitomo area of New Zealand. It was first discovered by local Māori between 400 and 500 years ago. The name Te Ruakuri, or "The Den of Dogs" was given to the surrounding area when wild dogs were discovered living in the entrance of the cave. Begin the tour by journeying down through the spectacular, man-made spiral entrance, marvel at the softly folding shawl-like limestone formations and crystal tapestries while listening to the distant thunder of subterranean waterfalls. If you want to see glowworms up-close and personal and learn about their fascinating life, then this is the tour for you. Photography is permitted in Ruakuri Cave. After visiting Ruakuri Caves, we head towards Auckland. On the way, we will have stop for a scenic lookout to view New Zealand's longest river - Waikato River. We head back to the accommodation back in Auckland.

You will be joining with traveller's who have booked for Glowworm Caves, and Spellbound Caves. Head out of Auckland and, on the way to the Waitomo Ruakuri Cave, enjoy a brief stop at Taupiri for a quick break to grab a coffee, breakfast, or lunch at your own expense. Then, head to the Waitomo Caves via Otorohanga. While you pass the NZ State 3 and 37, stay on the lookout for a statue of New Zealand's largest extinct flightless bird, Moa. Stop here for a quick photo opportunity. Head to Ruakuri Cave, one of the longer caves in the Waitomo area of New Zealand. It was first discovered by local Māori between 400 and 500 years ago. The name Te Ruakuri, or "The Den of Dogs" was given to the surrounding area when wild dogs were discovered living in the entrance of the cave. Begin the tour by journeying down through the spectacular, man-made spiral entrance, marvel at the softly folding shawl-like limestone formations and crystal tapestries while listening to the distant thunder of subterranean waterfalls. If you want to see glowworms up-close and personal and learn about their fascinating life, then this is the tour for you. Photography is permitted in Ruakuri Cave. After completing the Waitomo Ruakuri Cave, we stop for a lunch break at Waitomo Homestead, or to Otorohanga town. After the lunch break, we head to Hamilton Gardens, a unique garden complex in New Zealand, featuring 18 enclosed gardens that showcase different cultures and historical periods. Each garden tells a story, blending art, design, and nature. It offers visitors a visually stunning and educational experience across beautifully curated landscapes. The self-guided experience roughly takes around 2 hours. After visiting Hamilton Gardens, we head towards Auckland with an optional stopover for a scenic lookout to view New Zealand's longest river, Waikato River.

Ruakuri Caves and Hamilton Gardens Day Tour from Auckland Discover two of New Zealand’s most unique attractions on this full-day tour from Auckland. Explore the mesmerizing Ruakuri Cave, an underground wonder featuring spectacular limestone formations, glowworms, and hidden waterfalls. Then, enjoy a peaceful stroll through the award-winning Hamilton Gardens, where themed landscapes from around the world bring history and culture to life. Tour Highlights: Ruakuri Cave Tour – Experience the longest guided underground walking tour in New Zealand, marveling at glowworms, intricate rock formations, and underground streams. Hamilton Gardens – Explore beautifully designed gardens inspired by different cultures, including Japanese, Italian Renaissance, and Māori-themed landscapes. Scenic Drive – Travel in comfort through picturesque countryside, with stops for refreshments and stunning photo opportunities. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide in Ruakuri Caves, transport in a comfortable vehicle, and entry to Ruakuri Cave. Hamilton Gardens is a self exploration or self-guided tour. Perfect for nature and culture lovers!