Exclusive Hobbiton & Waitomo: Middle-earth & Glowworm Magic

The day trip to Hobbiton and the Waitomo Caves was absolutely fantastic! Damian was an amazing guide – super friendly, entertaining, and kept us engaged the entire time. The timing was perfect, everything ran smoothly. On the way back, we even stopped for some delicious Hokey Pokey ice cream – highly recommended! A perfect day that I’d recommend to anyone.

Our tour guide, Damien was excellent! We had a long, fun filled day!! Hobbiton was an absolute gem. The hibbit hole homes were do amazingly detailed

Laim from Bush & Beach is a great guide who made this trip so much fun, he is so knowledgable that you will know all about New Zealand - past, present and future in this single day trip. He made this trip so comfortable and memorable. Thank you from India.

Everything about our day was amazing. Our tour guide, Damien, was incredibly knowledgeable, patient and kind. He ensured we did not feel rushed while keeping us fully aware of where we needed to be when. His perfect combination of narrative and curiosity about his guests made for a day that felt like touring with friends. Hobbiton exceeded my high expectations. The Waitomo Caves are beyond description. I was concerned about mobility in the walk down to the boat and then the boat itself. Our guide said was patient and so respectful, again ensuring I was able to fully participate and not feel rushed. I highly recommend this tour and this company.

Met and exceeded expectations. Our guide Wayne was friendly, fun, informed and professional. Hobbiton is captivating and the glow worm caves truly a stunning experience.

Amazing, just amazing, Damian was a great tour guide, good driving, plenty of stories along the way, scenic route, an unforgettable experience in Hobbiton (thanks a million for the tips 😊). Waitomo caves were beautiful, the Hokey Pokey ice cream, delicious on the way back… In short a great day! Big shoutout to Trish and Krystle for the back and forth via email, the reminders… great team you have at Bush and Beach! Five star service all the way! ⭐️ Emilie from France

This was a bucket-list birthday come true, and I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect experience! My husband and I booked the Hobbiton and Waitomo Day Tour with Bush and Beach, and everything about the day was truly fabulous. The Hobbiton movie set was nothing short of magical. Walking through the rolling hills dotted with Hobbit holes, the lush gardens, and the Green Dragon Inn felt like stepping straight into Middle-earth. Every detail on the set was so authentic and enchanting—it’s easy to see why it has captured hearts around the world. Having the chance to enjoy lunch in the Party Marquee at Hobbiton was the icing on the cake. The buffet was absolutely delicious—ahh, I’m still drooling over the beef brisket and everything else on that spread. It was hearty, wholesome, and perfectly themed for the experience. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves were another highlight—an awe-inspiring, almost spiritual experience. Floating quietly beneath thousands of twinkling glowworms felt like drifting under a night sky of stars deep underground. It was breathtaking, serene, and unlike anything we’ve ever seen before. But the true soul of this tour was Wayne. He is simply extraordinary—equal parts hilarious, knowledgeable, and deeply passionate about his country. His nonstop jokes kept us laughing, his storytelling made the landscapes come alive, and his warmth made us feel so cared for. In just one day, we felt a genuine connection with him—something rare and special. Saying goodbye was unexpectedly difficult; his warm hug at the end of the tour was a moment we will never forget. My husband and I already miss Wayne, and we know this trip will always be remembered not just for Hobbiton and Waitomo, but because of him. Thank you, Bush and Beach, for such a spectacular day. My heart is so full—this was the best birthday I could have imagined. We can’t wait to return to Auckland and book more tours with your wonderful team.

Had a great time, Damien was incredibly knowledgeable and welcoming. Would definitely recommend this tour.

Damien was a wonderful knowledgeable and friendly tour guide who provided helpful information, good company, and happy memories! I wish every tour I go on could have Damien as a guide. From pick up to drop off, everything was seamless, comfortable, and fun! I would take this tour all over again with Damien as our guide! Excellent experience!

Our trip to Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves was a fantastic experience. The destinations themselves were outstanding, though it was our guide Damien who made the day truly one to remember. Not only was he able to provide context to the sights we were going to experience, but his deep knowledge of New Zealand and the history of the land and its people gave us a much better understanding of where we were and what an interesting place New Zealand is. We highly recommend this tour.