ITINERARY FOR THE WEEKEND OF MAY 31 - JUNE 1, 2025

Winter Wonders in Matamata: Cozy Adventures Amidst Enchanting Landscapes

Experience the magic of Matamata this winter with cozy adventures amidst the enchanting landscapes of Hobbiton and Rotorua. Despite the chill, the allure of glowworm caves and Maori culture promises unforgettable memories.

Embrace the Enchantment of Hobbiton

As the winter chill settles over Matamata, there’s no better time to delve into the magical world of Middle-earth. The Hobbiton & Rotorua Tour offers an immersive experience that will transport you to the heart of the Shire. Starting at 6:00 AM, this tour is perfect for early risers eager to explore the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set. Wander through the lush pastures, marvel at the 44 hobbit holes, and enjoy a complimentary beverage at the Green Dragon Inn. The tour’s small group size ensures a personalized experience, allowing you to soak in the rich history and behind-the-scenes stories shared by knowledgeable guides.

Despite the forecasted rain on May 31st, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress warmly and embrace the elements. The overcast skies and occasional showers add a mystical ambiance to the landscape, enhancing the feeling of stepping into a fantasy world. As you journey through the Waikato countryside, take in the stunning landscapes and powerful rivers that define this region. The tour’s commitment to sustainability and conservation aligns with our shared passion for preserving natural beauty, making it an eco-conscious choice for travelers.

“Great trip - It was such a wonderful experience! Of course, we were also lucky with the weather, but also the trip itself is worth doing even in bad weather. You get a lot for your money, many information, motivated and qualified guides, enough time at each spot, so all in all really worth its money and a 100% recommendation to do the trip. Extra special thanks to the great guy Alejandro who made this trip something very special due to his kind and easy-going personality, great knowledge and professionalism. Thanks a lot!” - Reviewed on 2025-05-03

Discover the Wonders of Rotorua

Continuing your adventure, the Hobbiton & Rotorua Tour takes you to the geothermal marvels of Te Puia in Rotorua. Here, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring Pōhutu Geyser and explore the Maori Cultural Village and Arts School. The tour provides a unique opportunity to learn about Maori culture and traditions, offering a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s rich heritage.

The weather on June 1st promises partly cloudy skies, making it an ideal day for outdoor exploration. With a moderate UV index, don’t forget your sunscreen as you wander through the geothermal craters and admire the Maori architecture. The tour’s focus on cultural preservation and education aligns with our commitment to sustainable travel, ensuring that your visit supports local communities and conservation efforts.

“Fantastic memories - Hobbiton, Maori, Te Puia - Absolutely amazing tour, great tour guide Alessandro who made this trip very special. It was full of fun with interesting stories along the way, comfortable driving (you don’t even feel time between places). This makes me happy to come back for another tour with Cheeky Kiwi in the future. The itinerary itself is also perfect - in one day you visit the most popular and interesting places - we walked in the magical land of Hobbits, saw the beauty of NZ nature in Rotorua, and learned about Maori culture. Highly recommended 👌” - Reviewed on 2025-05-03

Glowworm Magic at Waitomo Caves

For those seeking a truly enchanting experience, the Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Day Trip on June 1st offers a journey into the heart of New Zealand’s natural wonders. Starting at 6:30 AM, this tour combines the charm of Hobbiton with the mesmerizing beauty of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. As you glide silently through the caves by boat, you’ll be captivated by the thousands of glowworms illuminating the darkness like a starry sky.

The tour’s route through the backcountry of New Zealand provides stunning views of the Waikato River and the surrounding landscapes. With a focus on eco-friendly travel, this tour ensures that your adventure leaves a minimal environmental footprint. The inclusion of a light Kiwi café-style lunch and the opportunity to engage with local guides adds to the authenticity of the experience.

“Unforgettable experience!! - This was the best day me and my friend have had here yet! Our tour guide Mike was the most fantastic person we could have wished for!! We booked the tour for my birthday and Mike made the whole day so special for me and had the bus sing happy birthday to me on the way to lunch and everyone was so happy and full of energy it was lovely!! Hobbiton was gorgeous, and Mike helped us to take photos in the best spots, while our guide was informative, friendly, and a real fan which made everything that much better! There was a free cider we got to enjoy at the Green Dragon at the end of the tour and the souvenir guide you get for free at the beginning is gorgeous any fan would love it!! We also went to the Waitomo Caves and had such a magical time there! The caves weren’t cold at all and the beginning of the tour when you go through the Cave is excellent. In the “cathedral” section of the cave our amazing guide Shawni performed a beautiful Māori song that left us with goosebumps! Lunch was also included in our tour and brilliant! We went to a little café and got to choose what we wanted with a drink courtesy of the tour! Had the best birthday ever thanks to this experience truly couldn’t recommend it more!!” - Reviewed on 2025-04-26

Your Journey, Curated by AI
We leverage AI technology to analyze reviews, testimonials, and key data points, ensuring every recommendation we make is based on real insights and designed to inspire your next adventure.
About the Author
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Juliette Rousseau
Juliette focuses on sustainable travel options in Australia and New Zealand by analyzing data on eco-friendly lodging, tour availability, and conservation efforts. She helps travelers explore while protecting the environment.
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