Things to do in Waikato Region, North Island: The Best Cultural Tours

September 7, 2021 Chanda Heide

Waikato (/ˈwaɪkɑːtɔː/ or /ˈwaɪkætoʊ/) is a local government region of the upper North Island of New Zealand. It covers the Waikato, Hauraki, Coromandel Peninsula, the northern King Country, much of the Taupo District, and parts of Rotorua District. It is governed by the Waikato Regional Council.
Restaurants in Waikato Region

1. Private 2 Day Tour: Hobbiton, Waitomo, Rotorua Geothermal & Hamilton Gardens

Auckland & Beyond Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

This two day trip covers the most iconic attractions in New Zealand! Ideal for travelers with limited time or as a pre or post cruise ship trip. Do not miss out on this amazing 2 day fully customized luxury adventure! • Pick Up & Drop off at anywhere in Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua or Tauranga. • Luxury Mercedes Vehicle • Professional, friendly & knowledgeable tour guide • Admission & Guided Tour Inside Waitomo Glowworm Cave including a Boat Ride. • Admission to Te Puia Geothermal Valley in Rotorua. • 1 Night Accommodation in Rotorua. • Hobbiton Movie Set Admission & Guided Tour. • Complimentary Drink (Alcoholic or Non) at Green Dragon Inn inside Hobbiton Village. • 90min River Cruise at The Hamilton Gardens.

Inclusions: Overnight accommodation., GST (Goods and Services Tax), Bottled water, Snacks, Driver/guide, Hotel pickup, Hotel drop-off

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By AdiS491

The tour of the set was excellent. The place is a well oiled machine from ticket office to bus ride etc. Our tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable about the movies and all other aspects . The movie set was awesome and the gardens amazing . Even if you’re not a movie buff the experience and sheer brilliance of PJ et al is totally worth it . Having a drink ( free) at the Green Dragon ???? was fantastic.

2. Waitomo Glowworm Caves + Hobbiton Movie Set, Rotorua Pick Up Day Tour

New Zealand Discovery Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Explore two of New Zealand's top attractions in one day with this fantastic guided tour from Rotorua! Waitomo Glowworm cave's in the morning and "The Hobbiton Movie Set" in the afternoon! The start of the day is a pick up from your accomodation and travel to Waitomo to visit the Glowworm caves! Take a magical boat ride through the stunning Waitomo Glowworm Caves, from here we Experience the real Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the bucolic setting for The Shire that featured in the Peter Jackson directed films, The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. Relax and join this small group full day tour in a modern air conditioned mini van with your driver guide!

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Air-conditioned vehicle, Complementary at the Green Dragon Inn in Hobbiton

Exclusions: Food is available to purchase from Waitomo Caves and Hobbiton

Reviewed By Kerry G

Amazing scenery, friendly staff. Very well laid out facility and so clean. Everyone that visits Rotorua should visit this place.

3. Private Group Tour of Hobbiton Movie Set, Rotorua & Waitimo Glowworms Caves

Black Car Transfers & Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Travellers with limited time will enjoy this action packed day of visiting three attractions in a private day tour from Auckland. You will enjoy your visit to the sets of ‘Lord of The Rings’ and Hobbit movies, discover how a 12 acre sheep farm was turned into a movie set, getting a glimpse of behind the scenes secrets of how the movies were made, then enjoy the countryside of scenic hills and valleys to the wonderland of Rotorua. The sight, sound and colours of the volcanic areas are amazing. The Pohutu geyser is stunning when it erupts. Waitimo Glowworm Caves is mesmerising with its thousands of Glowworms unique only to New Zealand. Your journey through the countryside of New Zealand takes in the lush greenery of rolling hillsides and scenic mountains and valleys with its different animals following New Zealand’s longest river ‘Waikato River’ to Auckland City and your Hotels.

Inclusions: WiFi on board, Bottled water, Snacks, All Fees and Taxes, Private transportation, Return transfers to Auckland

Exclusions: Lunch

Reviewed By fcard

Excellent service by Black Car Transfers & Tours!!! Kris Lal is the epitome of what anyone could ever want and more. Kris picked us up at the airport in a beautiful, immaculately clean car. Not only does he give excellent service but with a warm, kind, friendly experience he would give to his own family. We were in NZ when our cruise ship was cancelled and the ports were closed. Kris took care of us by giving us a short tour of Auckland and then getting us to the airport to return home to the USA I don't know what we would have done without him. And to add to that, he and his lovely wife even offered to put us up in their home if we could not get a flight home What more could anyone ask for. Thank you again, Kris! Frank & Kathy

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

Cheeky Kiwi Travel
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5.0 based on 13 reviews

On this small group, fully guided day trip visit the world-famous Lord of The Rings Hobbiton Movie Set and other stops and secret locations on the way from Auckland to Rotorua. Highlights: • Hobbiton & Alexander Family Sheep Farm • Green Dragon Inn • Rotorua City Highlights • Waikato Farming Region • Surprise Stops Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in a modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety. While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Entry ticket and fully guided tour - Hobbiton Movie Set, Bottled water, Snacks

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking

Reviewed By M6828DUlisao

We enjoyed this tour from start to finish. It was a fantastic day out. Our tour guide Mani was amazing. He had such a wealth of knowledge and was so friendly and involved in our whole experience. I would have to say he has been the best tour guide we have ever had. The highlight of the day was our visit to Cathedral Cove ( such a breathtaking place) and Hot Water Beach. A very different experience for us

5. 10-Day 'Vibe of the North' Epic Summer Tour for 18-30s!

229 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand Kiwi Vibes
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

The photos, the stories, the FOMO! You can’t beat New Zealand’s North Island in summer time! The ‘Vibe of the North’ is our most popular tour ever, and you’re about to see why! From digging a natural bath at ‘Hot Water Beach’, to doing ‘bombs’ off the rocks into the crystal clear river in Coroglen, even an unbeatable Taranaki vineyard wine tasting overlooking the West Coast of NZ, you’re about to experience a Kiwi summer the way the locals do! Throw in a visit to Hobbiton, optional bungee and skydiving, and a HEAP of other activities, and you’ve got yourself the real ‘Vibe of the North’!

Inclusions: All accommodation is included (clean, quality, Kiwi hostels), All taxes, fees and handling charges, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Breakfast is included each day, as well as many delicious lunches and dinners!, Local, expert guide with unmatched personality. We're pretty funny too!, Transport by coach around New Zealand., Breakfast

Exclusions: Flights to New Zealand not included., Travel insurance is the responsibility of guests.

Reviewed By azheat120

My friend and I have just booked our 'Vibe of the North' with Kiwi Vibes for November this year! While we obviously haven't been on the tour yet, we've been so impressed with all communication and assistance so far from the KV team. They've been more than happy to help us answer any questions we've had and made us even more excited for our trip with them! Bring on November in NZ!

6. Cruise Kakariki to the Maori Rock Carvings

Sail Barbary eco-sailing Taupo, Berths 9 &, 10 Redoubt Street, Nukuhau, Taupō 3330, New Zealand Sail Barbary - Eco Sailing Taupo
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5.0 based on 9 reviews

We have been cruising to the iconic Maori Rock Carvings since 1982. This all-year-round activity offers relaxation, fun and adventure on the water, the Kiwi way. Get right up close to this culturally significant 46 foot (14m) high rock art. Excellent, amusing and current commentary on Lake Taupo, the volcanoes and the carvings.

Inclusions: Restroom on board, Coffee and/or Tea, Toasty warm ponchos, Evening cruises include a glass of wine/beer/soft drink , Alcoholic beverages available for purchase, Swimming is encouraged

Exclusions: Hotel pick up and drop off, Additional food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By Grzgz

It was a pure pleasure to see the carvings on a great sunny day on a boat that does not take too many ppl on board. The only problem was that there was no wind, but the electlic engine that the boat has is making no noise and so the trip was very relaxing and successful. Highly recommended!

7. Hobbiton, Waitomo, Rotorua & Taupo 2-Day Small Group Tour from Auckland

Cheeky Kiwi Travel
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Hobbiton Movie Set, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Rotorua, Huka Falls & Taupo! This is all of the most popular North Island attractions in an epic two day tour. Highlights: • Hobbiton Movie Set • Waitomo Glowworm Caves • Rotorua Highlights & Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland • Taupo Highlights & Huka Falls While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it’s our small groups, guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. This tour doesn't rush you, with time and options to add extra activities if you choose. Led by our 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.

Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Entry tickets - stated activities only, Bottled Water, Snacks, Optional extra - One-way option from Auckland to Taupo

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking

Reviewed By M6828DUlisao

We enjoyed this tour from start to finish. It was a fantastic day out. Our tour guide Mani was amazing. He had such a wealth of knowledge and was so friendly and involved in our whole experience. I would have to say he has been the best tour guide we have ever had. The highlight of the day was our visit to Cathedral Cove ( such a breathtaking place) and Hot Water Beach. A very different experience for us

8. Rotorua Small Group Tour incl Te Puia, Traditional Maori Buffet Lunch & Concert

Cheeky Kiwi Travel
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5.0 based on 6 reviews

Experience the world famous geothermal and Maori cultural wonders of Te Puia. This unforgettable tour combines natures power and beauty with Maori culture all in one day. Highlights: • Te Puia Geothermal Park & Pohutu • Maori Cultural Village and Arts School • Rotorua City Highlights • Waikato Farm Region While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it’s our small groups, guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. This day tour gives you the time to explore Te Puia fully and participate in the activities there, unlike many other tours. Led by our 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.

Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Entry Tickets, Traditional Maori Hangi Buffet Lunch, Bottled water, Snacks, Optional extra - One-way option from Auckland to Rotorua

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By M6828DUlisao

We enjoyed this tour from start to finish. It was a fantastic day out. Our tour guide Mani was amazing. He had such a wealth of knowledge and was so friendly and involved in our whole experience. I would have to say he has been the best tour guide we have ever had. The highlight of the day was our visit to Cathedral Cove ( such a breathtaking place) and Hot Water Beach. A very different experience for us

9. Hobbiton & Rotorua Small Group Tour incl Te Puia, Hangi Buffet Lunch & Concert

Cheeky Kiwi Travel
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

Experience the world-famous Lord of The Rings Hobbiton Movie Set plus the geothermal and Maori cultural wonders of Te Puia all in one day. This unforgettable combo tour takes you to two of the top tourist attractions in the North Island. Highlights: • Hobbiton & Alexander Family Sheep Farm • Te Puia Geothermal Park & Pohutu • Maori Cultural Village and Arts School • Rotorua City Highlights While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. Our tours are led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in a modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Bottled water, Snacks, Entry Tickets, Traditional Maori Hangi Buffet Lunch, Optional extra - One-way option from Auckland to Rotorua

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By M6828DUlisao

We enjoyed this tour from start to finish. It was a fantastic day out. Our tour guide Mani was amazing. He had such a wealth of knowledge and was so friendly and involved in our whole experience. I would have to say he has been the best tour guide we have ever had. The highlight of the day was our visit to Cathedral Cove ( such a breathtaking place) and Hot Water Beach. A very different experience for us

10. Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland

Auckland Scenic Tours
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5.0 based on 27 reviews

Make the most of your time in Auckland with a small-group tour to the magical and enchanting Hobbiton - Lord of the Rings Movie Set. Enjoy the trip of a lifetime to one of the most iconic New Zealand attractions in an idyllic location, all in just one day from Auckland. See how this beautiful piece of farmland has been transformed into the Shire from Middle Earth.Our simply magical and enchanting tour takes place over 8 hours and with the insight of our highly knowledgeable local tour guide, it truly will be a day to remember. No trip to New Zealand’s North Island is complete without a visit to this iconic attraction, so don’t hesitate to book your trip with us as our tours fill up quickly! Take photos in front of your favourite places like the Hobbit Holes, The Mill and the Green Dragon Inn. Afterwards visit the Shire Store, which features an extensive selection of souvenirs to remind you of your visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set.

Inclusions: Beverage at The Green Dragon, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Local taxes, Knowledgeable tour guide

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By 144cinematicc

Absolute knowledgable & friendly guide with excellent photography skills for the best interest of my tour experience on a stunning day, it’s simply incredible! The effort of putting a customised plan for a solo trip is beyond what was paid, greatly appreciated. Two big Thumbs-up to David, you are amazing as :))

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