6hr Hobbiton Movie Set Tour – Departs Tauranga

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through the enchanting world of the Shire or you’re a die-hard Lord of the Rings fan, this Hobbiton Movie Set Tour might be just the adventure you’re after. This full-day experience, offered by Wicked Wanders Tours, promises a relaxed, informative journey that takes you from Tauranga into Middle-earth, all in about six hours. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, we’ve scoured the reviews, itinerary details, and feedback to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines movie magic with scenic New Zealand countryside. You’ll get to walk in the footsteps of Bilbo and Frodo, explore the iconic hobbit holes, and enjoy some genuine storytelling from knowledgeable guides. Plus, the added bonus of a pint at the Green Dragon Inn makes it feel like a true escape for fans and non-fans alike. However, a potential downside is that the tour is quite structured, so if you’re big on having lots of free time or exploring at your own pace, this might feel a little rushed.

This experience is best suited for those who want a comprehensive day out combined with a scenic drive—it’s particularly great for fans wanting inside access or anyone looking to add a unique highlight to their New Zealand trip. Keep in mind that if you’re traveling with little ones or prefer a more flexible schedule, it’s worth checking how the timing and group size might fit your needs.

Key Points

• In-depth Movie Set Access: Walk through the famous Hobbiton landscapes and inside a Hobbit Hole with knowledgeable guides.
• Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy the views of New Zealand’s lush countryside during your drive.
• Well-organized Experience: The tour covers all highlights with a comfortable 6-hour schedule, including transport and entry.
• Small Group Comfort: The tour accommodates a maximum of 11 travelers, making it more personal and less rushed.
• Bonus at the End: A complimentary beer or soft drink at the Green Dragon Inn adds a fun, relaxing touch.
• Value for Money: At approximately $160 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with all the key attractions included.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Mount Maunganui

The tour kicks off with a scenic drive from Mount Maunganui, giving you a taste of New Zealand’s countryside even before reaching Middle-earth. While the stop here is brief—about 30 minutes—it’s a chance to soak in the views and get ready for the day ahead. Many reviewers appreciated the friendly and informative commentary from the driver, which added some local flavor to the journey.

Hobbiton Movie Set: The Main Attraction

Once you arrive at Shires Rest Cafe, you’ll be collected in a comfortable, air-conditioned van—an important detail if the weather is warm. The guided tour of “The Shire” lasts around two and a half hours and takes you through the iconic movie set.

Here, the guides shine. Many reviews mention how knowing and friendly the guides are—providing extra insights into the set, the movies, and the filming process. One reviewer called the experience “excellent and very well run,” which is a recurring theme among happy travelers.

You’ll get to see the famous Hobbit holes, including the inside of one that visitors can walk through—a highlight that many reviews rave about. The attention to detail on the set is impressive, from the gardens to the tiny doorsteps, and it’s clear that a lot of care is taken to maintain the area even after filming wrapped.

Lunch and Shopping at Shires Rest Cafe

Following the tour, most travelers take some time to relax, grab a bite, and browse the souvenir shop. The cafe offers a variety of snacks, and the shop provides a range of Hobbit-themed memorabilia at reasonable prices—something many visitors found handy for souvenirs.

McLaren Falls Park

After the Hobbiton experience, the group heads over the Kaimai range for a photo stop at McLaren Falls Park. The stop lasts about 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the Waikato farmland and waterfalls. Several reviews mention how beautiful and peaceful this area is, making it a perfect way to wind down the day. It’s a short stop but well worth it for the scenery and some memorable pictures.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll travel in a clean, air-conditioned, 12-seater van—small enough for a cozy atmosphere but large enough to be comfortable. Many travelers appreciated the small group size, which made the experience more intimate and personalized. The driver/guide also provided live commentary, sharing local tidbits and enhancing the journey.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Tauranga, making it easy to coordinate your day. The total duration is roughly six hours, including stops, so it’s a full but manageable day out.

Price and Value

At around $160.73 per person, this tour is a bit of an investment, but considering entry to Hobbiton is included, plus the scenic drive and small-group experience, it’s reasonable. Several reviewers commented on the value, especially noting how knowledgeable and friendly guides made the experience worth every penny. One review even mentioned that the tour exceeded expectations, which says a lot given how popular Hobbiton has become.

While it doesn’t include meals (besides the free drink at the end), the overall package is solid. It’s especially good for those who want a well-organized, comprehensive visit without the hassle of navigating on their own.

What the Reviews Say

The praise for this tour is nearly unanimous. Reviewers love the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Nichole, Russell, and Jess, who went above and beyond. Many highlight the beautiful scenery, the immersive Hobbiton set experience, and the relaxed, small-group vibe.

Some quotes to keep in mind:
– “The experience at Hobbiton was excellent and very well run.”
– “Russell was very knowledgeable, and shared lots about the area and Hobbiton.”
– “The trip inside the Hobbit house was amazing.”
– “The driver made the trip enjoyable with interesting stories about New Zealand.”

A few reviewers mentioned minor frustrations, such as the website’s difficulty with payment methods or the tight schedule, but overall, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

Conclusions: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a Lord of the Rings or Hobbit fan, this tour offers a chance to see the movie set in a relaxed setting with an expert guide. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a scenic day trip that combines countryside views with movie magic. The small-group setup makes it more personal, and the inclusion of a drink at the end adds a nice touch of relaxation.

However, if you prefer a more flexible or leisurely exploration, or have young kids who need more downtime, you might find the 6-hour fixed schedule a bit packed. Also, for those who aren’t as interested in the movies, the focus on Hobbiton might feel less compelling, though many reviews show that even non-fans find the set impressive.

In all, this tour balances entertainment, scenery, and convenience. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a hassle-free, memorable outing with good value for the experience.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off in Tauranga, making it easy to join without extra planning.

How long does the Hobbiton set visit last?
The guided tour of the set is about 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and take photos.

Does the tour include entry tickets?
Yes, entry into Hobbiton is included in the price, so no need to buy tickets separately.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 11 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but a free beer or soft drink is offered at the end of the Hobbiton tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, the small, friendly group and accessible set make it manageable for most travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How is transportation arranged?
A clean, air-conditioned van takes you from Mount Maunganui to Hobbiton, with live commentary along the way.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s around $160.73 per person, offering a full experience with transportation, entry, and some extras.

If you love movies, scenery, and a touch of whimsy, this Hobbiton tour strikes a nice balance between fun and practicality. The well-reviewed guides, stunning set, and scenic drive make it a trip worth considering during your stay in Tauranga.