Top 13 Tours In Matamata

Matamata is a small town with a big claim to fame: it’s the place to experience the magic of Middle-earth. Its lush, rolling hills served as the backdrop for the rugged Shire in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films, making it a magnet for film fans and curious travelers alike. But beyond the famous movie set, Matamata offers a rich variety of tours exploring geothermal wonders, glowworm caves, and authentic Maori culture. We particularly like the Two-Day Hobbiton, Rotorua, Waitomo Caves Tour (link) for its comprehensive itinerary and cozy accommodations, perfect for those wanting a deep dive into North Island highlights.

Whether you’re after a relaxed day trip or a more exclusive, tailored experience, Matamata has something to suit every interest. From guided movie set explorations to private adventures, the options are diverse enough to match different budgets, schedules, and tastes.

Quick Overview

The tours listed here range from half-day private visits to immersive multi-day adventures. You’ll find options like the guided Hobbiton Movie Set tours (link) for small groups and private excursions, as well as multi-day tours (link) that encompass Rotorua’s geothermal parks and Maori culture. For a full experience, consider the 21-Day Grand Kiwi Experience (link), which combines North and South Island highlights. If caves are your thing, the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves Private Tour (link) offers a scenic boat ride into the glowing chambers.

Below, we analyze each in detail to help you find your perfect match.

1. From Auckland: Two-Day Hobbiton, Rotorua, Waitomo Caves Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded North Island experience over two days, including stays in comfortable 3-4 star accommodations. It’s perfect if you want a taste of Hobbiton, Rotorua’s geothermal zones, and the glowworm caves without rushing. The itinerary features a guided tour of Hobbiton, complete with a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon, and visits to Te Puia’s geysers and Maori arts center. The highlight is the Mitai Maori cultural evening, an authentic way to experience local traditions and enjoy a traditional dinner.

At just over two days, this tour balances sightseeing with relaxation, making it ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed. The reviews average 4.7 out of 5, with many visitors praising the friendly guides and local insights. The value lies in the combination of key sights with a comfortable overnight stay. This is suited for travelers who like organized trips but also want to experience Maori culture firsthand.

Bottom Line: A good choice for those wanting a comprehensive, easy-to-book North Island trip with cultural depth.

2. Auckland: Hobbiton & Waitomo Glow Worm Caves Private Tour

If you prefer a full-day private experience, this tour hits all the high points with the added comfort of custom scheduling. It includes a guided exploration of Hobbiton, where you’ll see iconic locations like Bag End and the Green Dragon Inn, followed by a boat ride through the luminous glowworm chambers of the Waitomo Caves. This private tour provides the flexibility to tailor your day, with Auckland pickup and scenic return.

Rated 5/5 with just three reviews, it’s clear this tour offers a very personalized experience. The convenience of included transportation and guided commentary makes it suitable for travelers who want a seamless, exclusive day out. The limited group size means more attention to detail and fewer crowds, especially appealing during peak seasons.

Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a flexible, private day with personalized attention and premium experiences.

3. From Auckland: Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour

For those who value intimacy and personalized service, this small-group tour takes you to Hobbiton with a maximum of six participants. The tour lasts about 8 hours, including comfortably guided exploration of the film set and a chance to sip ginger beer in the Green Dragon. The drive from Auckland is scenic, and the smaller group means your guide can share more behind-the-scenes stories.

While it’s a full-day trip, it keeps things manageable with a manageable group size that feels more like a private adventure. The main advantage is the extra attention from your guide and the relaxed pace. The 4.2-star reviews reflect a good experience, especially for travelers who enjoy a more intimate, personalized vibe.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a more intimate, engaging Hobbiton experience with a small-group atmosphere.

4. From Auckland: Private tour Hobbiton Movie Set Day Trip

If luxury and exclusivity are your priorities, this private day trip offers a personalized transfer in a Mercedes and a bespoke guided tour of Hobbiton. The tour includes a buffet lunch at the Party Marquee, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery and take photos. It’s suited for travelers who want a more refined experience without the crowds.

Rated 5/5, it’s clearly a premium option for those seeking a private, curated adventure. The personalized service makes it stand out, especially for special occasions or travelers who appreciate comfort. The customizable itinerary and private guide provide a tailored experience that makes this tour memorable.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a VIP experience with private transport and a relaxed, exclusive atmosphere.

5. 14 Day Northern Kiwi Small Group Tour

This two-week tour is perfect if you want to learn about New Zealand’s north beyond just Hobbiton and Rotorua. It includes farm-to-table dinners, Maori culture at Mitai Village, and visits to geothermal parks. Rated without a detailed score, it’s designed for travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided experience combining cultural, natural, and culinary highlights.

The trip is ideal for those who prefer organized group travel and want a deep dive into Maori traditions and geothermal wonders. It’s a good value considering the multiple locations and activities included, providing a well-rounded experience of the North Island in just 14 days. It’s suited for travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and want everything taken care of.

Bottom Line: A great pick for travelers who want an all-encompassing, guided tour of North Island highlights.

6. Auckland: Hobbiton, Waitomo Caves, and Rotorua 1-Way Tour

This 13-hour one-way tour combines three major sights on a single day from Auckland. It includes Hobbiton guided tour, a boat cruise in Waitomo Caves, and a driving tour of Rotorua. The focus is on delivering a rundown for travelers who want maximum exposure in a day.

Rated 4.4/5 with eight reviews, it’s appreciated for its efficient itinerary and knowledgeable guides. The lengthy day suits active travelers who prefer a packed schedule. The small group setting ensures a more personal experience, and the comfortable minibus with snacks makes long days more manageable.

Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting to see multiple highlights without multiple trips, but be prepared for a long day.

7. From Auckland: Exclusive Private Tour of Hobbiton

For travelers seeking ultimate privacy and comfort, this exclusive private tour offers luxurious Mercedes transfer and a personal guide through Hobbiton. It includes a buffet lunch and extra time exploring at your own pace. The customized experience is perfect for special occasions or travelers who want to avoid crowds.

Rated without reviews, but based on description, it caters to those who want a tailored, high-end experience with attention to detail. The private transfer and personal guide make it worth considering for discerning travelers who value comfort and exclusivity.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a private, luxurious Hobbiton experience that’s fully customized.

8. From Auckland: Hobbiton Movie Set – Private Tour

This personalized day trip combines a private transfer with a guided tour of Hobbiton. With an emphasis on storytelling and behind-the-scenes secrets, it’s perfect for fans of the movies. The tour includes scenic views across the Shire and options for golf cart transport for limited mobility.

Rated 4.9/5 based on 8 reviews, this tour emphasizes personalized attention and flexibility. The private transfer and customized commentary ensure an intimate experience tailored to your interests.

Bottom Line: A great choice if you want a private, detailed exploration of Hobbiton with personalized service.

9. 21 Day Grand Kiwi Experience Small Group Tour

This extensive three-week tour is for those wanting to see all of New Zealand. It includes mountain hikes, fjord cruises, and cultural visits across both islands. It’s best for travelers with plenty of time and a desire to explore every corner, from Lake Tekapo to Milford Sound.

Rated 4.5/5 with two reviews, it’s noted for its comprehensive itinerary and expert guides. The tour balances adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for those who want an in-depth experience. The value is high considering the number of activities and destinations covered in 21 days.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers eager to see all of New Zealand with a guided, multi-activity approach.

10. Hobbiton Movie Set & Te Puia Geothermal Valley Private Tour

This private tour combines Hobbiton’s cinematic charm with Rotorua’s geothermal power. It includes admission to Hobbiton, a guided geothermal tour in Te Puia, and a visit to the Pohutu Geyser. The tour balances film magic with natural spectacle, offering a full-day adventure.

Rated 5/5, it’s highly recommended for those who want a diverse experience blending movies, Maori culture, and geothermal features. Highlights include mud pools, kiwi birds, and Maori arts. The comprehensive itinerary makes it excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.

Bottom Line: A superb option for those wanting a mix of film, culture, and geothermal wonder.

11. New Zealand: 9-Day Private Tour with 14-16 Activities

This private 9-day trip offers a tailored experience around New Zealand with a mix of activities, including mountain hikes, city visits, and cultural experiences. It’s suited for travelers who want flexibility coupled with guided comfort.

Without a specific review score, it emphasizes customization and variety, making it ideal for those who want a personalized itinerary. It’s a good option if you prefer a curated experience with flexibility for your interests.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a semi-custom tour balancing popular sights with personalized touches.

12. RUAKURI CAVES & HAMILTON GARDENS – Day Tour from Auckland

This day trip combines caving and botanical gardens, offering an active and scenic day. The Ruakuri Cave features glowworms and waterfalls, and the Hamilton Gardens showcase themed landscapes from around the world. It’s perfect for nature lovers wanting a mix of adventure and beauty.

Rated with no reviews, but the detailed itinerary indicates a well-organized day focusing on natural and landscaped wonders. The longer duration (10 hours) is suited for active travelers who enjoy a full day of exploring.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a combination of underground adventure and lush gardens.

13. Private Day Tour – Hobbiton Movie Set, Rotorua & Treewalks

This private tour offers a personalized journey through Hobbiton, Rotorua’s geothermal sites, and the Redwoods Treewalk. It combines movie magic, geothermal experience, and a treetop walk—a varied day suited for nature lovers and film fans alike.

Rated for its flexibility and focus on customized experiences, it caters to travelers who want a tailored, all-in-one day. The Redwoods Treetop Walk adds an outdoor adventure element that appeals to active travelers.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a personalized, multi-faceted day with nature and film highlights.

How to Choose Your Tour

When selecting your ideal tour in Matamata, consider your budget, time, and interests. If the film set is your main focus, the small-group or private Hobbiton tours (link, link) offer immersive experiences. For those keen on geothermal wonders and Maori culture, the Hobbiton & Te Puia Private Tour (link) balances both.

Travelers with more time should consider the multi-day tours (link), which include Rotorua and Waitomo, or the biggest adventure—the 21-Day Grand Kiwi (link)—if you want to explore more of New Zealand. Budget-conscious travelers can opt for shared group tours, while those seeking privacy might prefer private or exclusive options.

Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred dates and avoid disappointment. Always check inclusion details, especially transportation and meal options, to maximize your experience.

Final Thoughts

Matamata offers a surprisingly broad range of tours, from cinematic magic to geothermal marvels. For classic film fans, the Hobbiton tours (link) are simply essential. If you want a more cultural and natural experience, Rotorua’s geysers and Maori villages provide authentic insights. For cave explorers, the Waitomo glowworm boat rides (link) are unforgettable.

For different types of travelers—whether you prefer a luxurious private adventure, a small-group guided day, or an extensive multi-week exploration—there’s a tour in Matamata that fits. Considering the variety, it pays to book early and choose the one that best matches your interests and schedule. No matter your choice, you’re in for a memorable slice of New Zealand adventure.