coach tour of rotorua

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Rotorua Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Rotorua. We've got 268 adventures going to Rotorua, starting from just 2 days in length, and the longest tour is 38 days. The most popular month to go is February, which has the largest number of tour departures.

250+ Rotorua tour packages with 1,042 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

3 Day Best of Central Attractions

Overall was good but there were quite signifficant waiting time in between activities

New Zealand: Best of the North Island

Wonderful guide, wonderful group, I loved it!

2 Days Waitomo Caves, Hobbiton Movie Set & Rotorua Tour from Auckland

I enjoyed this tour completely. I enjoyed each of the individual excursions and all of the travel and connections were coordinated perfectly.

• Sightseeing

Coasts & Culture Tour

Definitely do it! The hostels can be harsh and things might not be always 100% organised but you get to experience NZ in such a unique way that makes it all worthwhile.

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of New Zealand: Mountain Biking & Black-Sand Beaches

The trip was amazing!! So many things we did that were exclusive for G Adventures tours only! The tour guides were friendly and very personable. I loved every minute of it!!

New Zealand's North Island Adventure (Southbound)

Snowy, our guide was the best that could be. Safe in his hands. Real dincum n. Zealander. Beautiful country. Wish i lived there.

Northern Voyager

Amazing time! T was an awesome guide and met many other great people and friends. Accommodations are ok (mostly hostels) but you're generally on the move and getting as much as you possibly can into the trip. Great activities to choose from - Tongariro Crossing is a great hike (did it in shorts and a hoodie but I recommend gloves), and you'll definitely have the opportunity for multiple activities in a single day.

Premium New Zealand North Island (8 destinations)

Summer did a brilliant job in making 12 strangers into a joyous group. Every day was an adventure.

Sun and Steam (6 Days)

It was f******** amazing

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

NZ Adventure North

James is great! 100% would recommend!

Highlights in New Zealand North Island Escorted Coach Tour

Except for Cordis, Hotels could have been better. Tour guide, driver and sights weee excellent

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

NZ Intro North

I had such an amazing time on this tour! Emily was so much fun and made everyone feel welcome. It was very interesting and such an amazing experience! 100% would recommend this tour:)

New Zealand Explorer

Both weeks were excellent, the drivers/guides have a lot of humor, both also knowledge of the country and about the places we’re we stopped/stayed. Accommodations are basic but fair for the price.

Northern Spotlight (8 Days)

Good balance to tour and guides/ drivers were excellent.

New Zealand's North Island Adventure (Northbound)

We had a great New Zealand North Island Tour. Our guide Harry was the best- caring, helpful, knowledgeable. The tour was exactly as advertised. Harry made it the best!

What people love about Rotorua Tours

It was good! A little too much of the same thing (geothermal tours and Māori villages). I would have rather gone for an afternoon at the Polynesian spa the afternoon of the first day, after the glow worm cave (so cool!) vs the initial Māori village with geysers. The 2nd days’ activities were good, and Hobbiton was amazing!

My group was phenomenal, we all had a blast together. Our guide was very communicative, using WhatsApp and a photo circle to share information, resources and photos. I’m not used to hopping hostels, so that was a bit rough, definitively pack light and try to be organized. I should have done a better job researching temperature as well - as it got much colder than I was expecting. Overall the trip was incredible and I did everything I wanted to do.

• New Zealand Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 2 Week New Zealand Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 3 Week New Zealand Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Rotorua Day Tours

A geothermal wonderland of boiling mud pools and spectacular geysers awaits visitors to Rotorua, a dream spot for sightseeing and a region steeped in Māori legend, history and culture. Its landscape is a mix of lush fields that support a thriving agricultural industry and beautiful lakes, and it seems everywhere steam rises from the ground, hinting at the active world beneath.

Marvel at the natural wonders of Te Puia and explore its thermal valley of geysers, streams of boiling water and hot mud pools. Get an insight into Māori culture through performance and traditional carving, weaving and art all created on site. The Agrodome is one of New Zealand’s most loved attractions and is a fun window into farming culture with a sheep show, shearing and dog trials. Native flora and fauna is on display at Rainbow Springs Nature Park, including New Zealand’s national icon, the kiwi, where a special Kiwi Encounter lets visitors see the nursery and hatchery for these endangered birds.

Take a day tour from Rotorua and visit Matamata to see where movie magic was made with a Hobbiton Movie Set Tour , or choose from our Waitomo Caves tours to marvel at the incredible limestone formations and enjoy a boat ride through the glowworm grotto.

3 Day Tours to experience

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour From Rotorua

• 6 hours 30 minutes
• See Hobbiton, and Lunch in the Party Marquee
• Complimentary hotel pick up/drop off available

from $ 228 NZD

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (Rotorua to Auckland)

• 7 hours 30 minutes
• Hobbiton guided tour and lunch
• Free Wi Fi on board coaches

Hobbiton & Te Pō Day Tour From Rotorua

• 12 hours 15 minutes
• Guided tour of Hobbiton Movie Set
• Unique Indigenous Experience at Te Puia

from $ 469 NZD

Free cancellation

You'll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 2 hours in advance of your tour experience.

New Zealand Tours

• City Sightseeing
• Nature & Wildlife
• Lord of the Rings
• Dolphin Watching
• Food & Wine
• Glowworm Cave
• Flightseeing
• Tours from Auckland
• Tours from Christchurch
• Tours from Rotorua

Destinations

• Bay of Islands Tours
• Auckland Tours
• Rotorua Tours
• Waitomo Tours
• Hobbiton Tours
• Wellington Tours
• Christchurch Tours
• Mt Cook Tours
• Queenstown Tours
• West Coast Tours
• Milford Sound Tours

Travel Info

• Our Drivers
• Our Coaches
• Hotel Transfers
• Tour Commentary
• Accommodation

THE 10 BEST Rotorua Bus Tours

Bus tours in rotorua.

• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Rotorua based Small Group Morning Tour Waimangu and Wai O Tapu

2. Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland with Options - Smaller groups

3. Tauranga Shore Excursion: Rotorua Highlights

4. Hobbiton & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland

5. Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland -Smaller Groups

6. Hobbiton & Rotorua including Wai-O-Tapu - Small Group Tour from Auckland

7. From Auckland: Rotorua Māori Village and Polynesian Spa Tour

8. Hobbiton Day Tour from Rotorua with lunch at Hobbiton

9. 6 hour Small-Group Rotorua Naturally Shore Excursion From Tauranga

10. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour with Optional Extra Activities from Auckland

11. Tauranga Shore Excursion: Te Puia Maori Cultural Centre and Rotorua City Sightseeing

12. Rotorua Eco Cultural full day tour (Wai o Tapu, Waimangu,Te puia)

13. 6hr Rotorua Geothermal Wonderland Tour - Departs Tauranga

14. Rotorua Geothermal Living Maori Village Tour Whakarewarewa 6.5hours Tour

15. Wai-O-Tapu & Hells Gate incl. Mud Spa Experience Private Tour

16. Rotorua Discovery Te Puia Tour

17. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland

18. Rotorua Small Group Tour incl Te Puia, Buffet Lunch & Concert

19. Private Tour: Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland

20. Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour

21. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour Including Te Puia from Auckland

22. Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour (One Way)

23. Shore Excursion: Geothermal Rotorua with Maori Cultural Performance at Whakarewarewa

24. Private Tour Rotorua Shore Excursion up to 8 Passengers

25. Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Small Group Tour (One Way)

26. MT. Maunganui and Rotorua Tour from Tauranga with Concert

27. Redwood Forest , Blue Springs & Huka Falls Day Tour from Auckland

28. Private Tour - Hobbiton and Te Puia

29. Boutique tour , Mt Maunganui, NZ farm, Rotorua lakes/geothermal

30. 5-Day New Zealand North and South Island Highlights Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Mitai Maori Village Cultural Experience in Rotorua
• Waitomo Caves & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland
• Tauranga Shore Excursion: Rotorua Highlights
• Rotorua based Small Group Morning Tour Waimangu and Wai O Tapu
• Hobbiton Day Tour from Rotorua with lunch at Hobbiton
• GreatSights New Zealand Day Tours
• Aotearoa Waka Experience
• Grand Luxe Luxury Cars

THE 10 BEST Rotorua Bus Tours

Bus tours in rotorua.

• Cultural Tours
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Rotorua based Small Group Morning Tour Waimangu and Wai O Tapu

2. Rotorua Day Trip from Auckland with Options - Smaller groups

3. Tauranga Shore Excursion: Rotorua Highlights

4. Hobbiton & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland

5. Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland -Smaller Groups

6. From Auckland: Rotorua Māori Village and Polynesian Spa Tour

7. Hobbiton & Rotorua including Wai-O-Tapu - Small Group Tour from Auckland

8. Hobbiton Day Tour from Rotorua with lunch at Hobbiton

9. 6 hour Small-Group Rotorua Naturally Shore Excursion From Tauranga

10. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour with Optional Extra Activities from Auckland

11. Tauranga Shore Excursion: Te Puia Maori Cultural Centre and Rotorua City Sightseeing

12. Rotorua Eco Cultural full day tour (Wai o Tapu, Waimangu,Te puia)

13. 6hr Rotorua Geothermal Wonderland Tour - Departs Tauranga

14. Rotorua Geothermal Living Maori Village Tour Whakarewarewa 6.5hours Tour

15. Wai-O-Tapu & Hells Gate incl. Mud Spa Experience Private Tour

16. Rotorua Discovery Te Puia Tour

17. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour including Wai-O-Tapu from Auckland

18. Rotorua Small Group Tour incl Te Puia, Buffet Lunch & Concert

19. Private Tour: Rotorua and Waitomo Caves Day Trip from Auckland

20. Nocturnal adventure Glow-worm tour

21. Rotorua Highlights Small Group Tour Including Te Puia from Auckland

22. Auckland to Rotorua via Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour (One Way)

23. Shore Excursion: Geothermal Rotorua with Maori Cultural Performance at Whakarewarewa

24. Private Tour Rotorua Shore Excursion up to 8 Passengers

25. Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Small Group Tour (One Way)

26. MT. Maunganui and Rotorua Tour from Tauranga with Concert

27. Redwood Forest , Blue Springs & Huka Falls Day Tour from Auckland

28. Private Tour - Hobbiton and Te Puia

29. Boutique tour , Mt Maunganui, NZ farm, Rotorua lakes/geothermal

30. 5-Day New Zealand North and South Island Highlights Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Mitai Maori Village Cultural Experience in Rotorua
• Waitomo Caves & Rotorua Small Group Tour including Te Puia from Auckland
• Tauranga Shore Excursion: Rotorua Highlights
• Rotorua based Small Group Morning Tour Waimangu and Wai O Tapu
• Hobbiton Day Tour from Rotorua with lunch at Hobbiton
• GreatSights New Zealand Day Tours
• Aotearoa Waka Experience
• Grand Luxe Luxury Cars

Waitomo, Rotorua and Hobbiton 3 day tour

This 3 day tour begins in Auckland and is enjoyed from the comfort of an escorted mini-bus. Travel through the stunning countryside before enjoying a fully guided tour of Waitomo Caves and Te Puia Geothermal Park. A true highlight is the guided tour through the filming locations of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit. See New Zealand's most awarded cultural attraction Te Pā Tū at the Tamaki Maori Village and indulge in the history and traditions. Scroll down and read the full itinerary below to see how this action packed tour would suit you or contact our team of NZ Travel Specialists  to customise. 

Tour overview

Departs every day - flexible independent travel

This suggested tour costs from NZD$1,550 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Auckland

3 days/2 nights

  Customisable? YES

  Viewed 216 times in the last 7 days

We can customize this tour suggestion to suit you perfectly. Add more time in favourite locations, stay in different accommodations, experience activities that interest you - we can arrange it all. Just get in touch to get your Tailor-Made itinerary

Day 1 - You will be taken on an adventure to Hobbiton and Waitomo caves

Take a journey through the heart of the Central North Island, taking in the Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton Movie Set on a full-day sightseeing tour. Setting off from Auckland, travel through the lush farmland of the Waikato and King Country regions, enjoying your driver guide’s entertaining and informative commentary. At the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, take a guided tour through impressive underground caverns and learn how stalactites, stalagmites and other limestone structures were formed over millions of years. Your tour includes a boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto – glide silently along an underground river as you gaze at the twinkling glowworms overhead. Then, travel to Matamata, take a guided tour of the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, located inside a picturesque 1,250 acre sheep and beef farm. Here, the village of Hobbiton was carefully created in amazing detail as a film location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie trilogies. During your guided tour of this amazing location you’ll see sights like Hobbit holes, the Mill and the Green Dragon Inn, and learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth. The tour includes a picnic lunch. After visiting Waitomo and Hobbiton, continue to Rotorua.

Your accommodation: Silver Fern Suites & Spa

Back to top

Day 2 - Enjoy ziplining action in the morning, and cultural experience and dinner in Maori village in the evening

Embark on a three hour adventure through native New Zealand forest. Journey through the beautiful forest canopy via an incredible network of trails, tree platforms, Ziplines and swing bridges. See breathtaking views of the woodland valleys and hills as you fly through tight openings in the trees. In between the thrill of the ziplines and suspended tree bridges, your guides will share their passion and knowledge for the forest and the conservation challenges to preserve it. 

New Zealand’s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, presenting Te Pā Tū. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pā (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pā Tū shares Māori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Māori lunar calendar.

This comprehensive 1-hour guided experience is a truly unique opportunity to learn about the world-renowned kiwi hatchery conservation program. You are invited to step ‘behind the glass’ for an immersive experience to join the hatchery team in a staff-only area to learn about the incubation and chick rearing techniques from global experts. Learn all about New Zealand’s intriguing national icon and the efforts of the kiwi husbandry team, see and discover what it takes to hatch and rare chicks, and if you’re lucky, see baby chicks in person! Afterwards, take more time to learn in the interactive kiwi burrow and see adult kiwi roam and forage in our purpose-built Nocturnal house.

Day 3 - This morning explore volcanic and geothermal Rotorua before traveling back to Auckland

See it all, the ultimate volcanic and geothermal Rotorua Tour. Learn about the huge colourful hot springs, erupting geysers and active boiling mud pools, spectacular volcanoes and lush native forest. All on a fully guided 1/2 day tour in Rotorua. You'll travel through forestry and farmland to NZ's largest boiling mud pool and a series of colourful hot springs at Wai-o-tapu. Then see the Lady Knox geyser erupt. Next a short drive to the Waimangu Volcanic valley where your guide will explain the Mt Tarawera eruption which blew open this spectacular, bush covered, geothermal park.

The drive from Rotorua to Auckland takes you through the heart of the Waikato and its rich agricultural land. Along New Zealand's longest river, the Waikato. A little further than Hamilton is Auckland City, New Zealand's largest, spread over approximately 60 square kilometres. From the vibrant and trendy fashion and cuisine found in Ponsonby and Parnell to the breathtaking native bush and beaches of the West Coast, Auckland is full of life and the opportunities to explore are endless.

Day 2 - Behind the scenes exclusive tour with National Kiwi Hatchery NZD$0

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Bay of Islands 3 Day Leisurely

3 days, from Auckland to Auckland

Bay of Islands 3 Day Tour

Bay of Islands Escape

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Rotorua Bus and Coach Tours

The seething power of inner earth comes to the surface in Rotorua . Explore Rotorua's geothermal areas and discover the unique culture of New Zealand's Maori people.

Rotorua Bus Tours and Coach Tours are a great way to explore New Zealand's exciting sites and landmarks. Rotorua coach bus tours provide a range of options to suit your needs and preferences from small group focused tours to large group tours, from local tours to nationwide tours.

Select Bus and Coach Tours in Rotorua, New Zealand, from the list below. Alternatively select a different Rotorua area.

THRIFTY TOURS - Nationwide

Mobile-friendly -  Travel New Zealand at your own pace on an expertly planned independent or escorted coach tour with Thrifty Tours. Our coach touring packages allow you to relax and enjoy New Zealand's spectacular scenery, while taking in a range of unique and exciting activities along the way. Call us today and we can start planning your perfect New Zealand touring vacation!

HOBBITON EXPRESS TOUR - Auckland and Rotorua

Join Bush and Beach for our daily tour to Hobbiton movie set from Auckland. This small group tour includes a tour of the movie set, a sumptuous buffet lunch in the Party Marquee and travel back to Auckland. If you are planning to go to Rotorua then check out our one way Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton option.

MOATREK NEW ZEALAND SMALL GROUP TOURS - Nationwide

Looking for the very best of New Zealand for your 'Trip of a Lifetime'? You'll love our small friendly groups and relaxed pace as you discover the true flavour of New Zealand in comfort and style. We’re all Kiwis, we grew up here and can’t wait to show you our favourite spots and introduce you to our mates!

NEW ZEALAND ENCOUNTERS CUSTOM VACATION DESIGN

New Zealand Encounters are an experienced and Qualmarked Inbound Tour Operator, designing Vacations for our clients from all around the World, all accommodations we use for our clients are inspected by us to ensure your quality experience. With have experienced Guides to share their stories, experience and knowledge with you. Let us help you with your visit to New Zealand

Ready2Roll Tours and Transfers- Bay of Plenty, Waikato

Private tours throughout the North Island. Rotorua based and vehicles in Hamilton with Kiwi Drivers. Offering private airport transfers from Auckland Airport to Waikato/Bay of Plenty regions and regional airport transfers in Rotorua and Hamilton. Let us bring you to Rotorua from Auckland via Waitomo and Hobbiton. Flexible and providing exceptional customer service and itineraries.

ROYALE COACHLINES - Tauranga

Mobile-friendly -  Royale Coachlines have specially designed day Cruise Ship Tours to cater for passengers visiting the Port of Tauranga. The tours show off the best of the area and guarantee to return to your ship well before departure time. Royale Coachlines also provides a quality bus service and coach charter service for tours in Tauranga and to anywhere in New Zealand.

STRAY BUS - New Zealand

Mobile-friendly -  Experience more than the average tourist when you travel New Zealand with Stray! Stray's epic itineraries show off all the incredible places New Zealand is famous for, as well as some special, off-the-beaten-track places too. Passionate guides bring the group together and show you a New Zealand only the locals know. See more and do more with Stray.

Other Options

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This Rotorua bus and coach tours map displays tourism business locations in your chosen region, area, city or township. Click on a Rotorua map location icon to display more information.

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• Whakarewarewa Forest Loop
• CityRide Bus Services

• Tours & Transport

Getting around Rotorua by bus is easy, affordable and reliable – just look for the big lime-green CityRide buses.

All buses are wheelchair accessible with super-low floors and ramps.

Current Rotorua fares, in NZD, for 2023:

• Cash (standard one way): $2.80 for adults; $1.70 for children ages 5-15 years old (children under 5 ride free)
• Daysaver: Travel on any CityRide route for $7.00

It helps to have exact change for your fare as it makes boarding quicker and the journey time shorter for the other passengers. If not, please try and carry smaller amounts of money and avoid large notes. Drivers only carry a small amount of change.  

Transfers between buses

When paying with cash:

• Free transfers between buses apply for one hour from ticket purchase.
• The transfer time between buses can be no more than 30 minutes.
• You can only have a maximum of one free transfer per journey.
• You will need to present your ticket when transferring to the next bus.

Use an app to track your bus

Transit App uses real-time GPS data. The app allows you to:

• know when your next bus is arriving;
• see exactly where your bus is in real-time;
• look up future departures and route itineraries; and
• plan your trip.

You might also be interested in...

Rotoiti water shuttles.

Tours & Transport, East

Indulge in a genuine off-the-beaten-track geothermal experience.

Rotorua Airport

With daily direct flights from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, and connecting flights from other cities, Rotorua Airport is proudly the gateway to and from the Central North Island.

Rotorua Duck Tours - Amphibious Sightseeing and Informational Tours

Tours & Transport

Guided sightseeing tours of Rotorua and the lakes region in a WWII amphibious landing craft. Splashdown onto pristine lakes surrounded by beautiful native forests. Rotorua Duck Tours are the perfect introduction to Rotorua’s geothermal and Māori history.

Rotorua Museum: Outside the Walls Historical Government Gardens Tours

Discover Rotorua's rich culture, volatile landscape and legendary figures in this must-do FREE tour around the famous Rotorua Museum and Government Gardens.

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Bay of Islands, Waitomo & Rotorua

• New Zealand Group Coach & Bus Tours
• New Zealand Independent Coach Tours

Tour Overview

Day by Day Itinerary

A 7 day independent coach tour exploring the Bay of Islands, Waitomo & Rotorua. To ensure that you have enough time at your destination you will have an overnight stay in Rotorua and Bay of Islands. Enjoy a Cape Brett Hole in the Rock Cruise, experience the Maori Culture at Rotorua and enjoy a Cape Reinga Day Tour - many highlights are waiting for you!

Agrodome Rotorua, Māori Cultural Experience Rotorua, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Hole in the Rock & Dolphin Cruise, Te Puia - Thermal Mud Pools & Geysers.

What is an  Independent Coach Tour ? 

Visited Locations

First light travel.

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Reviews of this tour....

Jerry Abshier

Hello Verity.  We had a very nice trip to New Zealand! Its hard to pick a favorite, but the glass bottom boat trip to Cathedral Cove was quite memorable. The Waitomo Glow Worm Caves were very cool also. I will attach a few photos to this email in case you would like to use any. Thanks again for all your help in setting up the trip! Jerry Abshier - USA

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G Adventures - Best of the North Island

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AAT Kings - Northern Wonders

An inclusive coach tour of New Zealand’s North Island. Experience the raw beauty of the Volcanic Tongariro National Park, visit the subtropical and beautiful Bay of Islands and swim in the Pacific Ocean, See indigenous heritage in Rotorua and learn the famous Maori Haka, Tour the famous Te Papa museum, which illustrates the human history of New Zealand - and much more...

Pricing terms

The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price

Rotorua To Hobbiton

Our guide to visiting the famous Lord of The Rings and Hobbit movie set from Rotorua

Book Top Experiences and Tours in Rotorua:

Mitai maori village: cultural experience and dinner buffet, from tauranga: skydive over mount maunganui, white island & whale island 1-hour volcano scenic flight, okere falls: zipline over waterfalls experience, rotorua: guided zipline adventure tour with photos.

• Round-trip coach transfers from Rotorua.
• A Hobbiton Movie Set guided tour plus entrance fee.
• Complimentary beverage at the Green Dragon.
• A visit to a few of Rotorua's popular attractions. This usually includes a geothermal/Maori cultural attraction.
• A Hobbiton movie set guided tour.
• Entrance fee to Hobbiton and all included attractions.
• Lunch and beverages.

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Recommended Experiences in Rotorua

Soar Over Waterfalls, fly through trees, and be enlightened by local guides during this Māori culture-infused Zipline experience that will have all ages and abilities fizzing.

Take flight for a truly unique adventure to White Island, one of the world's few accessible live volcanoes. Enjoy a fun, awe-inspiring experience with easy conversation and lots of laughs as you admire incredible views and learn the history of the island.

Explore the canopies of New Zealand's forests on this exciting guided zipline adventure. Cross swing bridges and fly through the air. See unique wildlife including geckos, birds, and blue mushrooms.

Skydive over Maunganui and the beautiful Bay of Plenty.

Visit a traditional Maori village and learn more about their customs and rituals at an amazing cultural experience, including a tasty hangi feast and dessert.

Tarawera and Lakes 2-Hour Duck Eco Tour

Enjoy a fully guided tour delving into Rotorua's rich history from a historical, ecological, and cultural perspective. Visit the magnificent Lake Tarawera at the base of Mt Tarawera after passing by Rotorua's most sacred lake.

Rotorua: Te Puia Geothermal Valley Guided Tour with Tickets

Discover the geothermal wonderlands of Te Puia on a guided tour. Admire geysers, bubbling mud pools, and native bushland, and access the Kiwi Conservation Center and Māori Arts and Crafts Institute.

From Rotorua: Wai O Tapu & Waimangu Eco Thermal Morning Tour

Experience a small group guided tour to Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland and the Waimangu Volcanic Rift Valley. Discover natural hot springs, geysers, boiling mud pools, volcanoes, native forests, and more.

Rotorua: Te Pa Tu Māori Cultural Experience with Dinner

Experience an evening of culture at Te Pa Tu that includes performances, dance, and a 4-course fusion feast held in the forest outside Rotorua.

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The Best Rotorua Hotels With Spa

Known for its geothermal wonders, Rotorua offers a unique experience for those looking to unwind and indulge in the therapeutic benefits of a spa hotel. In this article, we will explore the appeal of spa hotels in Rotorua and highlight some of the top options ...

Exploring the Hot Springs of Rotorua

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the geothermal marvels of Rotorua, the science behind the geothermal activity, the top hot springs and geothermal parks to visit, as well as tips and recommendations for experiencing Rotorua's hot springs....

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With the diverse range of natural attractions available to visit, Rotorua is also well suited to visitors of a more seasoned vintage and those looking for a relaxed pace.  So, we've created our Top 10 Elderly Activities to highlight the best activiti...

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Land of the Rings

A tour appealing to those Frodo and Gandalf fans, with visits to official sites used in the filming of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Independent tour (bus & coach)

This suggested tour costs from NZD$5,315 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Queenstown

9 days/8 nights

Hotel 4 star

  Customisable? YES

  Viewed 711 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

At a glance - Land of the Rings

Day 1 : Travel to Waitomo Caves and Te Puia before arriving in Rotorua Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Day 2 : This morning explore Hobbiton, then fly to Christchurch Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch

Day 3 : Today explore the Canterbury countryside brought to life in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch

Day 4 : Traverse Mackenzie Country into the Southern Lakes via Mt. Cook National Park Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown

Day 5 : A full day Trails of Middle Earth Tour Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown

Day 6 : Free time to explore Queenstown and a Safari of the Scenes 4WD tour Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown

Day 7 : Travel to Te Anau and then explore 'River Anduin' by Jet boat Accommodation: Distinction Luxmore Hotel

Day 8 : Head into Milford Sound today, take a cruise and then return to Queenstown Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown

Day 9 : Final day - depart Queenstown today

Travel from Auckland and visit Waitomo Caves on the way to Rotorua. This tour covers the most iconic destinations in the Northern island. You will visit Rotorua which is famous both for its thermal activity and its rich Maori Heritage. In addition, you will enjoy guided tour in the world renowned Waitomo Glow worm Caves and geothermal wonderland Te Puia. Your tour will finish in Rotorua.

Your accommodation: Millennium Hotel Rotorua

You will be collected from your accommodation and transferred to Rotorua Intercity Bus Stop.

Take a journey from Rotorua to famous Hobbiton Movie Set, located inside a picturesque 1,250 acre sheep and beef farm near Matamata. Here, take a guided tour of the village of Hobbiton, which was carefully created in amazing detail as a film location for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie trilogies. During your guided tour of this amazing location you’ll see sights like Hobbit holes, the Mill and the Green Dragon Inn, and learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth. After exploring Hobbiton, enjoy a tasty lunch in the Party Marquee and then return back to Rotorua.

You will be collected from your accommodation and transferred to Rotorua Airport.

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your Christchurch accommodation.

Your accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch

Journey to the remote and beautiful Mt Potts high country station, home of Mt Sunday. See how this spectacular mountain was transformed into Edoras, the capital city of the Rohan people from the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Marvel at its rugged unspoiled beauty and breathe in the clear mountain air, while you indulge in a gourmet sparkling wine picnic.

What better way to get from Christchurch to Queenstown than a small group, fully-guided day trip that combines all of the key southern highlights such as magnificent views of the famous Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and Tasman Glacier. The famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

Your accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown

This half-day Lord of the Rings tour starts from Queenstown and visits Glenorchy, Paradise, The Dart River Valley and Mt Aspiring World Heritage Area. Take a journey deep into Middle Earth and visit Lord of the Rings filming locations. On your scenic guided tour, you will explore Isengard, Amon Hen, Lothlorien Forest, The Misty Mountains and Ithilien.  You will also visit a location from the recently filmed, The Hobbit! Stories and secrets will be shared by guides who have great insight into the filming.

For those keen on the Hobbit and Lord of The Rings films, join Nomad Safaris for an unexpectedly delightful journey. In safari-equipped 4WD vehicles, you will be taken on a true off-road adventure. Experienced guides will take you on a breathtaking excursion through diverse scenery around the Whakatipu Basin. See historic Arrowtown and go over the Arrow River, as well as experiencing the truly remarkable views of the lake and mountain surround from the Skippers Canyon Saddle. Although no sets remain intact, the landscapes are instantly recognisable. Some of the sites you will visit during this tour include the Misty Mountains, Pillars of Kings and the Ford of Bruinen.

Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital', Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced, action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic, and scenic wonders. Whether you are looking for a scenic short walk or a longer one, you will find the perfect hike or bike trail in Queenstown. Explore Queenstown Gardens, or try out more challenging trails up to Ben Lomond Walkaway or Queenstown Hill Walking Track. Enjoy iconic views and take Queenstown Gondola up 450 metres to Bob's Peak, or ride on the 100-year-old Steamship - the TSS Earnslaw -  to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and al fresco restaurants, try out the famous Fergburger, or grab a dessert at Patagonia Chocolates.

Following the shores of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables mountain range towers over you as you approach the township of Kingston. You'll venture into Southland before crossing the rolling tussock-lands of Mossburn (deer capital of New Zealand) and shortly arriving at Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Jet boat down the Waiau river, across Lake Manapouri, to the ancient forest of the Fiordland National Park. Enjoy the thrill of jet boating down the majestic trout-filled Waiau River, to the serene Lake Manapouri. Step foot into the Fiordland National Park and go for a short walk while learning about the ancient beech forest and ferns. Your jet boat ride includes a number of stops at the exact locations of the filming the "Fellowship of the Ring" on the Waiau or Anduin River, where the driver will tell you the inside story of the filming the Lord of the Rings on this river. The trip will also include some thrilling 360 degree turns and spins as well as interesting interpretation about the flora and fauna and the local European and Maori history.

Your accommodation: Distinction Luxmore Hotel

From Te Anau, you travel by coach along the spectacular Milford Road. Photo stops are made on the way into Milford, with additional photo stops and a short walk on the return journey. RealNZ experienced drivers enjoy sharing their knowledge of the area. On reaching Milford Sound, you join a Cruise for a leisurely cruise the full-length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and the wildlife. During the cruise your friendly crew provide commentaries in several languages and point out the sights such as Mitre Peak and the Pembroke Glacier.

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