From Auckland: Hobbiton Movie Set Ride – The Shire Experience & Waikato Countryside

Experience Auckland in comfort with a private and fully personalised sightseeing ride. Together with your English-speaking Welcome Driver, you can choose which places to visit, how long to spend at each stop, and whether to follow our suggested itinerary or create your own custom route.

Your driver is a friendly local professional with excellent knowledge of the region and its highlights. They’ll share useful insights, stories and recommendations along the way, helping you discover Auckland and its surroundings like a knowledgeable friend, without the pressure of strict schedules or crowded group tours.

This flexible, door-to-door experience is the easiest and most comfortable way to explore the area’s top landmarks, cinematic locations and scenic countryside. Choose your pace, personalise your route, and enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey designed entirely around your interests.

Suggested Itinerary

Begin your full-day adventure with a comfortable pickup from your accommodation in Auckland and travel south through the lush 1Waikato Countryside Drive, where rolling green hills and open farmland create the unmistakable landscape of the Waikato countryside.

Arrive at 2Hobbiton Movie Set, and join a professional guided tour of this meticulously preserved filming location. Wander past the colorful Hobbit Holes, cross the iconic double-arched bridge, and stand beneath the famous Party Tree while hearing behind-the-scenes stories from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

After exploring the set, enjoy a relaxing break at 3Green Dragon Inn. Its rustic interiors, fireplaces, and themed décor provide an immersive and memorable way to end your Hobbiton visit.

Before beginning the return journey to Auckland, you may choose to stop at 4Matamata Town (optional stop) for a meal or local souvenir shopping, or pause at 5Karapiro Lake Lookout to take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and lake scenery.

Important Notes

➜ Your driver is a local, English-speaking professional. While not a licensed tour guide, they’re always happy to share stories, insights, and recommendations — much like a knowledgeable friend showing you around.

➜ Pickup and drop-off are included from any centrally located hotel, B&B, or apartment in the city area. Your driver will meet you at the selected location and assist you before the ride begins.

➜ Airport and port pickups/drop-offs are not included in the standard sightseeing ride. If you need one, simply book an additional transfer for seamless service.

➜ Entrance tickets are not included. Your driver can guide you on the best way to book tickets for the attractions you’d like to visit.

➜ The itinerary is flexible — feel free to skip stops, stay longer, or add new locations based on your interests and available time.

➜ Please mention any special requirements (service animals, accessibility needs, oversized luggage, etc.) in the booking notes so we can ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.