Discover the magic of Middle-earth on this guided tour to the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, departing from Auckland. Explore the 12-acre site, complete with 44 hobbit holes, lush gardens, and the Green Dragon Inn, where you’ll enjoy a complimentary drink.
This small-group tour offers a personal experience, with expert commentary, snacks, and bottled water included. Perfect for fans or curious travelers, it’s a must-visit journey into the heart of the Shire.
Includes
- Small group tour
- Starts in Auckland
- Scenic Waikato drive
- Fully guided Hobbiton tour
- Visit 44 hobbit holes
- Free drink at Green Dragon
- BlueBridge Marlborough ferry
- Photo and surprise stops
- Snacks and bottled water
- Return to Auckland included
Reviews
5.0
Based on 914 reviews
Verified from
Real reviews from travellers who've done this tour, gathered from around the web and paraphrased.
AI summary of 914 reviews
Travellers consistently praise the Hobbiton Movie Set itself as a breathtaking, beautifully detailed and genuinely magical experience, with particular appreciation for the opportunity to enter a hobbit hole and see the intricate furnishings and props. What stands out most across reviews is the quality of the guides and drivers, who are repeatedly described as knowledgeable, friendly, entertaining and attentive, creating an engaging journey with informative commentary about New Zealand history, Māori culture and local attractions, often enhanced by thoughtful stops for refreshments, scenery and ice cream. The small group size, punctual pickups, comfortable vehicles, well-organised logistics and inclusion of transport and entry tickets in a reasonable price are all frequently highlighted as significant strengths. The main caveat is that the tour involves a long drive from Auckland—roughly two to two and a half hours each way—which some travellers felt was worth the investment while others thought the actual time spent at Hobbiton could have been longer relative to the driving time, though this rarely deterred overall satisfaction with the experience.
How we collect and publish reviews
Where they come from. Our reviews are gathered from independent review sites and from guests who share feedback with us directly after their trip. They come from people who have actually travelled on the tour.
Why some are edited. Many of our guests travel in their second or third language. Where a review is hard to read, we lightly edit spelling, grammar and punctuation, or paraphrase a sentence for clarity. We never change the rating, the meaning or the sentiment, and we never write a review on a guest's behalf.
Reading the originals. Reviews sourced from public review sites appear there in their original form, and can be read in full at their original source at any time.
“One of the Kiwi's best!”
My friend and I really enjoyed this tour. Pickup and drop-off went smoothly and the whole day felt well organised.
“Absolutely incredible!”
The trip there and back was efficient and comfortable, helped along by a friendly, sociable driver who briefed us on what to expect. Our tour guide was excellent and clearly knew the subject well. Nothing to complain about — a day we'll remember for a long time.
“Simon’s the best!”
Our guide Simon was right on time for pickup and came across as very professional throughout. He was friendly, helpful, and full of good suggestions.
“Many thanks, Sasha!”
Our guide Alesandro (Sasha) was outstanding — interesting and easy to be around, deserving far more than five stars. Many thanks to Sasha from our group of Russian friends.
“Big bucket list ☑️ The Shire Middle Earth Waikato Hobbiton”
Our guide Ale was knowledgeable and shared plenty of interesting background on Auckland and the surrounding area. His genuine passion for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films brought the tour to life, and his enthusiasm was contagious. Whether you've seen the films or not, this tour leaves you wanting to watch (or rewatch) them, and Ale made it a thoroughly recommended experience.
“Experience Hobbiton it was a great time!”
The tour guide was great and the overall experience at Hobbiton was superb.
“Excursion in a small group with a great guide”
A great small-group trip to Hobbiton with around 13 people, led by our experienced guide Grant. He shared plenty of interesting facts about New Zealand along the way.
“Worth the money”
Worth every penny — Hobbiton itself is breathtaking, and Trent was a great, personable guide who took care of everything for us. Would happily do it again.
“Great experience!”
Our guide David was great — informative and pleasant to listen to throughout. Highly recommend.
“Welcome to the Shire”
Guide Alessandro was great — personable and knowledgeable, with good humour, even though our group was fairly quiet. A great trip overall.
“Great option for a large family”
A great option for our family of six, with punctual pickup and five other passengers sharing a comfortable Mercedes sprinter van. Driver Vickey gave good commentary mixed with music and had lots of energy. The drive back included a couple of stops for photos and snacks — a nicer option than a large coach tour.
“Great for Hobbit Fans!”
A great small-group trip to Hobbiton. Our driver Simon was friendly and informative, offering plenty of recommendations for the rest of our trip, and snacks and water were provided in the van. There were also stops for coffee and ice cream along the way. Would recommend.
“A fantastic experience.”
Our guide Grant made the drive to and from Hobbiton really enjoyable with his knowledge of the area, nature, and history. The tour through Hobbiton itself was fantastic — definitely recommend it.
“Unforgettable trip thanks to Cheeky Kiwi!”
A well-organised, comfortable tour with convenient pickup and drop-off — thanks to Simon and Cheeky Kiwi for an unforgettable trip. Auckland's weekday traffic was worse than expected, but Simon made it more bearable by setting expectations early and adding an ice-cream stop before heading back into town.
“Day trip from Auckland to Hobbiton”
Highly recommend this day trip to Hobbiton — Cheeky Kiwi handled all the logistics well. The Hobbiton portion itself, run by the site's own guides, was well organised with good pacing and plenty of information about the filming. Expect around three hours on the road each way and roughly three hours at Hobbiton.
“Hobbiton Movie Set Tour”
A relaxed, chilled-out kind of day. Our guide Hanoz was really knowledgeable, well up to date, and interacted well with everyone on board.
“A full day of awesome”
A great day that started with hotel pickup and a lovely tour guide, Jeoff, who made the day even better. Hobbiton exceeded our expectations, with plenty of information along the way in a lovely setting. Couldn't recommend it enough.
“My visit to Hobbiton Movie Set was a memorable experience.”
A memorable visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, and the rain didn't dampen the experience. Along the way our guide shared plenty of background on the set's connection to Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, plus New Zealand's history, culture, and landscapes, making the trip both educational and enjoyable.
“A fun tour for The LOTR Hobbit fans and aspiring fans!”
Driver-guide Hanoz was terrific — a safe, professional drive from Auckland with great commentary on Hobbiton and New Zealand history and culture that made the two-hour journey fly by. As a Lord of the Rings/Hobbit fan I was looking forward to the set, and it didn't disappoint: our Hobbiton guide Molly was enthusiastic and knowledgeable, with loads of behind-the-scenes detail on how the film scenes were shot. Plenty of time for photos too — a great experience, recommended especially for fans of the movies.
“Fantastic tour with a wonderful guide. Highly recommend!”
A fabulous day visiting Hobbiton with guide Sam, who shared plenty of interesting New Zealand facts along the way and ran a fun LOTR quiz for our small group. The weather was perfect and there was a bonus ice-cream stop on the way back — a real highlight of our holiday.
“Amazing tour!!”
An amazing tour — 100% recommended. Our guide Ark was super nice and friendly, sharing lots of facts about Lord of the Rings and New Zealand.
“Absolutely fabulous.”
Loved our trip to Hobbiton. The guide was knowledgeable and the driver excellent — would highly recommend.
“Highly Recommended”
A great tour — a long drive, but well worth it and very enjoyable. So glad we chose this one; driver Honaz was safe and competent.
Did the Hobbiton tour today and absolutely loved it - a must for any Lord of the Rings fan. Our driver and guide Simon was fantastic, and we learned a lot about New Zealand's history and culture from his commentary along the way. Highly recommend this tour and company.
“Hobbit Trip”
A seamless, fun trip from Auckland to the Hobbiton Movie Set. Our driver Trent made the experience, having tickets ready on arrival, playing good music, and sharing fun stories about New Zealand along the way. The set itself feels like stepping straight into Lord of the Rings — highly recommend.
“Satisfied!”
Our guide Liam was good and kind, and the tour itself was really enjoyable — thank you!
“Definitely worth it!”
A great and memorable trip. Our driver-guide was really nice, the trip felt safe throughout, and we learned a lot about New Zealand while enjoying every minute.
“Great guide and tour”
Our guide Grant was very informative and we had a great day, even though we'd never watched the films. There were only seven of us on the bus so we each had two seats — thanks, Jayne and Holly.
“Hobbiton — bucket list item ✔️”
A great time thanks in part to our driver Ben, who kept things fun. The drive to and from Hobbiton from our Auckland hotel was long but manageable, and lunch felt a little rushed, though everyone on the van being on time with only one other pickup stop helped.
“Great day out!”
Our guide Sam was friendly and knowledgeable, driving us there and back with excellent communication before and during the tour, and happy to answer questions about Auckland too. The Hobbiton tour itself was excellent and well organised — highly recommend.
“Hobbiton..... There and back again!”
A sensational day trip to Hobbiton with guide Liam, who was friendly, professional, and full of knowledge about New Zealand's history. Hobbiton itself was extraordinary, and we were lucky to get a sunny autumn day that made it feel like stepping into one of the films. A perfect day out.
“Wonderful experience”
A wonderful time visiting Hobbiton with our guide Dave (Rawiri), who taught us plenty about New Zealand on the drive and happily answered all our questions. He was kind and friendly, making for great conversation along the way. Hobbiton itself was a one-of-a-kind experience for both kids and adults — highly recommend.
“Hobbiton day trip.”
A fabulous day trip to Hobbiton. Driver Geoff was punctual, the bus was clean and comfortable, and the commentary along the way was informative — nothing was too much trouble. Hobbiton itself was fascinating and very well presented.
“All good”
We travelled down from Auckland with Cheeky Kiwi. Driver Mike was a nice guy, punctual and well organised, and the tour at Hobbiton itself was wonderful — everything was as hoped. Would definitely recommend and use Cheeky Kiwi again.
“A good day out.”
Everything ran on time, which was great, and our guide Ark was affable, knowledgeable, and clear about what was happening next. We managed to beat the weather too — my only gripe was that the site felt a little repetitive after a while.
“Comfortable trip with a four year old”
A very comfortable trip travelling with my four-year-old daughter, who thoroughly enjoyed herself. Guide Dave was understanding despite a tight schedule, taking extra time for bathroom breaks and an ice cream on the way back. We're grateful for how well he looked after our family.
“Absolutely Magical!”
I hadn't read the books or seen the Lord of the Rings films, but I still absolutely loved visiting Hobbiton. Matt from Cheeky Kiwi Tours was a great host and driver — highly recommend this tour.
“A Kiwi, a Brit and an Australian walk into the Green Dragon”
Cheeky Kiwi were the perfect choice — picked up on time, with driver Grant providing a wealth of knowledge about New Zealand and the local area. The ride was comfortable, and despite the rain we had a fabulous time. Thanks, Grant and Cheeky Kiwi.
“Great hobbiton experience”
A great experience — bus driver Grant and guide James were both awesome. Fully recommend.
“Cheeky Kiwi Tours aren’t Cheeky they’re Brilliant”
The best bus tour we've been on. Our guide Simon had a great sense of humour and impressive knowledge of everything New Zealand — professional, fun, and friendly throughout.
“My trip to the Shire”
An amazing trip to Hobbiton — our driver shared plenty of interesting facts about the country while keeping the ride relaxed. Hobbiton itself felt like a true getaway to the Shire, wonderful and breathtaking despite the odd rain shower. We stopped for ice cream on the way back and got some great tips as we approached Auckland — would do it again in a heartbeat.
“Our hobbiton Adventure.”
An exceptional tour group — our driver Grant was funny and knowledgeable, and the tour felt genuinely special. Will definitely come again.
“Hidden treasure”
Worth every penny — a friend suggested we visit while in Auckland and it was a great call. Any fan of the Hobbit will have the time of their life; we're visiting from Texas.
“Great Tour”
Grant was a really great guide — informative, friendly, accommodating, and considerate. Staff were responsive to our requests too, and overall it felt very worth it.
“hobbit on”
An unbelievable experience — our guide Liam was about the best you could ask for.
“Vicki Rocks 5 stars!”
Vicki was amazing — friendly, full of knowledge, and made the tour a real delight. I'd happily do more tours with her and Cheeky Kiwi given more time in the area, and the price felt very reasonable for what we got.
“Great experience and driver (Trent)”
Our driver Trent was great and knowledgeable, and the trip to and from the Hobbiton Movie Set staging area was smooth and enjoyable. We had time to browse the souvenir shop and cafe before heading to the set, and watching Return of the King on the drive back was a nice touch that ended the family day well.
“Great Day with Grant!”
Grant did a great job getting us to Hobbiton on a very busy holiday day, mixing in fun facts with plenty of relaxed downtime.
“Good hobitton tour”
A very good tour — guide Trent was kind and paid close attention to everyone in the group. Great attitude and a very good experience overall, fully recommended.
“A great trip to Hobbiton”
An excellent tour — our driver-guide Simon gave us plenty of useful, interesting information along the way, not just about Hobbiton. The Hobbiton visit itself was well organised and well timed, with enough room for photos alongside the information. We thoroughly enjoyed the day and would highly recommend it.
“Could not have been more “Precious””
A most memorable day — from boarding our small-group coach it felt magical throughout. Our driver-guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and kept us safe on the drive from Auckland while sharing local and cultural history, and we transferred smoothly onto a dedicated Hobbiton coach for the Lord of the Rings set tour. She kept us entertained on the two-hour ride back too — well worth considering if you have a spare day.
“Amazing movie set tour”
A seamless, convenient experience with Cheeky Kiwi from pickup to drop-off. Our guide Dave coordinated everything impeccably, from the pickup through to what to do once we arrived at Hobbiton.
“Great tour. Well organized. Our guide Cam was outstanding”
A well organised, thoughtfully run tour with guide Cam. Would do it again.
“Beyond the Shire”
Even if you're not a big Lord of the Rings fan, this tour feels otherworldly. Our guide Jeoff, with his deep knowledge of New Zealand, kept things lively for our group of 16, and we got to try local kiwifruit plus a fantastic, generous, and inexpensive ice-cream stop. Pickup instructions were clear too — I'd happily book with Cheeky Kiwi again.
“Everything we expected and more!”
A great, knowledgeable tour guide made for an amazing day out — highly recommend.
“Amazing Team providing a Full Experience of New Zealand…”
Cheeky Kiwi runs a super organised operation — the pickup point and Hobbiton tickets were all sorted in advance, and our guide Jeoff was fantastic, sharing plenty about New Zealand's history and landmarks. Small touches like providing water and snacks for everyone showed the company really cares about making visitors feel welcome.
“Well done”
Our driver and guide, Grant and John, were terrific — we spent about five hours in the van there and back, and Grant shared plenty of information about the sights along the way. I was only a moderate Lord of the Rings fan going in, but the detailed, expansive set was genuinely impressive and has me wanting to watch the Hobbit films now. A must-see for fans of either series.
“Had a Great Time”
Our driver Simon was fantastic and fun throughout — we did this the day before our cruise, so the drive from Auckland was a bit longer than from the cruise port, but Simon made the time fly. Hobbiton itself was incredible in its detail, and our on-site guide Mackenzie was fun and easy to listen to. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious, this tour is well worth it.
“Must do while in Auckland!”
A great visit to the Hobbiton set, made extra special by our guide Jeoff, who had plenty of New Zealand knowledge and had snacks and water ready for us. He and Cheeky Kiwi made it an unforgettable experience.
The Hobbiton bus tour with Cheeky Kiwi was perfect - our guide Dave was amazing, offering helpful tips and taking great care of everyone in the group.
“Fun and informative”
Vicky was very friendly, funny, and knowledgeable — we'd definitely book with her again.
“Cheeky Kiwi Tour with Richard”
Travelling solo, this reviewer felt completely at ease thanks to a friendly small group and their guide Richard, who picked them up from central Auckland. Richard kept things easy with snacks, water, a bathroom and coffee stop, plus local history and recommendations along the way, and looked after their gift shop purchases while they toured the set. Walking through the Hobbiton set and one of the hobbit holes was a highlight, and the Green Dragon Inn stop for a drink and quick snack was fun, if a little rushed for those wanting a proper lunch. Overall a fantastic, worthwhile experience.
“Hobbiton Small Group Tour”
Cheeky Kiwi's guides were friendly and helpful, and the vans were clean, safe and modern. The company added a lot to the overall enjoyment of the Hobbiton tour.
“A great day ✨️”
Despite pouring rain, this reviewer had a fantastic day. Their guide Hanoz was great company on the drive, sharing good food recommendations for the rest of the trip. Travelling solo, they found the small group setup welcoming, with a friendly group of fellow travellers.
“One great trip to Hobbiton”
The Cheeky Kiwi driver was friendly and happy to explain local culture along the way, making for a great trip to Hobbiton.
“Worthwhile”
A great tour with genuinely interesting insights into the Hobbiton movie set.
“Excellent tour company for Hobbiton”
Driver Hanoz made the journey enjoyable and gave a clear rundown of what to expect at Hobbiton, plus helped sort tickets on site. The tour itself was spectacular, and the reviewer highly recommends the company.
Liam was an excellent guide with plenty of interesting tidbits about New Zealand history, and drove the group safely to and from Hobbiton. He was also helpful with suggestions for places to eat and things to see nearby.
Did the Hobbiton tour from Auckland and our guide Timmy was great - good photos and nice commentary throughout.
“100% recommend”
Booking was easy and the price felt reasonable given it includes both the ticket and transport. Driver Dave communicated well throughout, and Hobbiton itself was amazing, making for a smooth, easy day from pick-up to drop-off.
“Best Hibbit Experience Ever”
The driver shared interesting tidbits along the way and even played the movie's music on approach, keeping everything running on time. The on-site Hobbiton guides were fantastic too, making this a must for any Lord of the Rings or Hobbit fan.
“High quality and the little extras”
Guide and driver Simon brought genuine kiwi hospitality along with professionalism and a few laughs, even tailoring the music for the group. Hobbiton itself was beautiful, and the on-site team, including guide Mackenzie and the cafe staff, made the visit easy to enjoy.
“Excellent guides made this experience memorable!”
Guide Liam was excellent and knowledgeable about Auckland and the sites passed along the way to Hobbiton, keeping the group entertained with stories and humour on this reviewer's first trip to New Zealand. On-site guide Sam was equally impressive, sharing the history behind the movie set and helping the group get around and take photos.
“Magical tour”
A magical, well-run tour with smooth pickup and great communication throughout. This was a bucket-list day that fully met expectations, helped along by driver Tim's fantastic commentary.
“Liam couldn't be better!”
A well-organised, user-friendly experience. Guide Liam was knowledgeable, interesting and engaging, going out of his way to make the trip unique and enjoyable.
“Vicki is GREAT! Awesome experience would definitely recommend.”
Guide Vicki was amazing and extremely knowledgeable, offering great tips throughout a comfortable and fun trip. They were also lucky enough to have time for stops on both legs of the journey.
“Hobbiton is a movie fan, gardener and Tolkien fan MUST”
The Hobbiton set impressed with its artistry and faithfulness to Tolkien's books and films, without feeling tacky. Cheeky Kiwi communicated pickup and the day's plan clearly, making it a stress-free outing thanks to guide Pearl.
“Fun trip”
Pick-up was on time from a convenient location, with water and snacks provided along the way. The guide was very accommodating throughout.
“Excellent trip”
A great day out with a genuinely excellent tour guide — thoroughly enjoyable.
“Excellent!”
Driver Simon was friendly, entertaining and knowledgeable, and on-site guide Chris at Hobbiton was delightful. A trip the reviewer would certainly recommend.
“Wonderful guide”
Guide Ari was enthusiastic, energetic and kind, making the long drive to Hobbiton feel pleasant rather than tedious. A lovely tour overall.
“Vicki - the perfect there and back Cheeky Kiwi tour guide”
Guide Vicki turned the ride to Hobbiton into far more than just transport, welcoming everyone warmly and keeping the group fed with snacks along the way. She shared plenty of Kiwi history and local knowledge that made the roughly two-hour journey (with breaks) fly by, and was patient and happy to answer questions throughout. The Hobbiton set itself was full of nature and movie nostalgia, but it was Vicki's care on the day that made the trip stand out — highly recommended if you're booking from Auckland.
“An experience not to be missed”
A beautiful setting with sheep and cattle grazing among lakes, rolling hills and mountains in the background. The hobbit holes were full of detail, and being able to see inside one of the homes made for a genuinely remarkable experience.
“Mike takes us to the Shire!”
Driver Mike Moksha kept things entertaining on the roughly two-hour ride in a clean, comfortable minibus. The on-site Hobbiton staff then guided the group through the set, including inside one of the hobbit homes — an excellent experience not to be missed.
“Go on an adventure!”
A comprehensive, informative tour of the Hobbiton set. The driver was great company, sharing plenty of interesting facts about New Zealand along the way.
“Hobbiton win!”
Exceeded expectations, with lovely guides and a beautiful setting. Plenty of information was packed in without any wasted time.
“A magical experience”
Guide Grant was wonderful, sharing information throughout the trip and always checking that everyone was doing okay. The Hobbiton tour itself was magical, and this reviewer would happily do it again.
“A Fantastic Day!!!”
Hobbiton was incredible, and driver Liam H was amazing — knowledgeable, thoughtful and kind enough that the five hours together flew by.
“Hobitton”
Pickup was right on time, and driver Simon took a scenic, enjoyable route to Hobbiton. The on-site guide was knowledgeable, rounding out a thumbs-up experience overall.
“OMGOODNESS Hobbiton is a delight!”
Driver and guide Ale was customer-service focused, safety and comfort conscious, and both informative and educational throughout.
“Exceptional Hobbiton Tour with Grant”
This trip stood out largely thanks to tour operator Grant, whose deep knowledge of Auckland and the surrounding region turned the drive into a genuine masterclass in local history and culture. The logistics were seamless, professional and comfortable throughout, and Grant's obvious passion for New Zealand made the group feel welcomed and well-informed. Highly recommend requesting him specifically.
“Liam is the GOAT”
Guide Liam was excellent, with outstanding knowledge of New Zealand's flora and fauna. He always put the group first and was happy to answer any questions — reason enough on its own to book again.
“Loved every moment!”
An amazing day out — guide Dave was the absolute best, and the whole experience is highly recommended.
“Much more than expected”
Driver and guide Grant was great, and on-site guide Sam at Hobbiton was excellent. An awesome day out even for those who aren't big fans of the movies.
“Great experience and Sam (our driver) was very kind and…”
A great, charming experience with driver Sam, who was kind and informative throughout. The drive runs about two hours each way and the seats aren't the most comfortable, but it was well worth it overall.
“100% worth”
Everything about the trip was well handled, from the transfer to the guiding. Minivan driver Alejandro was singled out as one of the best.
“Must do in NZ”
A wonderful experience — guide Grant was knowledgeable and interesting, making for an excellent day overall.
“Excellent way to tour Hobbiton from Aukland”
This tour exceeded expectations, with the driver and guide sharing plenty of information and insight on the drive, plus fun extra stops to see the world's largest cow and for ice cream. Pickup from the Sky Tower was convenient, and the guide made sure everyone got onto the Hobbiton tour on time and back onto the bus afterward. A great way to reach Hobbiton from Auckland.
“We went on an adventure!”
Guide Liam H was amazing, educational and charismatic, and the Hobbiton set itself was whimsical enough that the reviewer would happily go back. They suggest checking the gift shop's website in advance since time to browse is limited. On the return trip, Liam answered every question and gave great food and drink recommendations, making it one of the best days of their holiday.
“Beautiful scenery but a very pricey and crowded experience.”
Driver Geoff was great company on a comfortable, wifi-equipped minibus, sharing plenty about New Zealand's kiwi bird and other things to do in Auckland. The Hobbiton set itself was impressive but felt quite crowded, with several groups of twenty or so spread across the shire at any given time. The reviewer also felt the roughly NZD 640 price for two people, spanning a 9am-to-6pm day and including one free drink, was on the pricey side for what it delivered.
“Wonderful experience!”
Driver Grant was excellent and very informative. Hobbiton was absolutely amazing, with extraordinary attention to detail and a setting so peaceful it makes you want to live there.
“Nice experience”
Pickup from Auckland went well, running a little late due to traffic, though the driver was kind throughout. The on-site movie set guide was excellent.
“Great tour guide and trip to Hobbiton”
The driver and guide was well informed with plenty of fun facts, and pickup and drop-off ran smoothly at the agreed locations. Hobbiton itself was fantastic, and the driver gave good tips for making the most of the visit.
“Even Better Than I Thought It Would Be”
A great day trip from pickup to drop-off, with Grant a wonderful host and guide along the way. The Hobbiton Movie Set itself impressed with its incredible detail — from the hobbit homes, yards and gardens to a surprisingly roomy interior in the one home they got to see inside, plus the unexpected scent of real flowers and garden plants. A cold beer at the Green Dragon Inn was the perfect way to finish.
“Must take tour!”
A great price for a great ride — guide Matt was friendly and informative, making for memories worth thanking him for.
“Best Tour Company with Best Tour Guides in New Zealand”
Guide and driver Dave was incredibly knowledgeable, informative and had a great sense of humour, keeping the whole group engaged and entertained. The couple learned a lot about New Zealand's culture and Hobbiton on their first full day in the country, which helped them plan the rest of their stay — a highly recommended tour and operator.
“Best day ever!!”
A great experience from booking onward, well worth the money and paced so nothing felt rushed. Guide Liam was brilliant from the start, knowledgeable about the area and full of interesting stories, making for a fun, exciting day.
“Fantastic!”
A well-organised, fantastic tour. Guide and driver David gave informative commentary throughout, Hobbiton itself was awesome, and there was a yummy ice cream stop on the way back to Auckland.
“Amazing tour you cannot miss”
Driver Michael was nice, patient and knowledgeable, sharing plenty about both New Zealand and Hobbiton. The on-site guide was clearly passionate, and everyone in the group thoroughly enjoyed the day.
“Excellent tour and tour guide!”
A really fun trip, with the highlight being guide Dave — knowledgeable, friendly and funny, educating the group about New Zealand, Auckland and Hobbiton while keeping everyone laughing. Well worth the time and expense for anyone who's enjoyed the books or films even a little.
“Excellent tour!”
Highly recommended — pictures really don't do Hobbiton justice. While the set itself is the same regardless of operator, Cheeky Kiwi made the journey there and back enjoyable and worry-free, with guide Liam sharing New Zealand history and points of interest while staying flexible to look after the whole group.
“Awesome!”
A great experience the reviewer would recommend to anyone — guide Matt was awesome, friendly and knowledgeable.
“10/10 would do again”
Guide Dave was entertaining and drove safely, with spot-on local recommendations. An amazing time on the set, capped off with a great ice cream stop on the way back.
“Awesome staff, easy way to travel!”
A loved tour, with the convenience of not having to drive themselves. Guide Matt shared lots of great information about New Zealand and its culture, and the group stopped for ice cream on the way back.
“Great Day in Hobbiton”
A wonderful tour with guide Cam, who picked the group up on time, gave informative commentary on the way down to Hobbiton, and shared a local tour of the area on the drive back.
“A Cheeky, Unforgettable Hobbiton Adventure”
Guide Timmy was warm, engaging and full of jokes, with strong knowledge of New Zealand's culture and history. He kept the day running smoothly and on schedule, got the group checked in quickly at Hobbiton with time to enjoy the gift shop and cafe, and was waiting right at the agreed drop-off spot afterward. With plenty of snacks along the way and a fun surprise stop, this was a top-notch day the reviewer would happily book again.
“Hobbiton with friends”
The guide was wonderful, and though there was a mix-up with the pickup arrangements at Hobbiton, they were apologetic and made up for it with extra time and ice cream. Being the last group picked up meant an uncomfortable 90-minute ride in the back of the van, which was the one downside of an otherwise good day.
“Great Day!!”
An awesome tour even on a rainy day, thanks to delightful guide Cam, whose knowledge of Auckland kept the whole drive entertaining. Stops to see cows and grab ice cream rounded things out nicely, making it well worth the price.
“Loads of fun!”
A great time whether you're a fan of the films or not. Driver Timmy was knowledgeable and happy to answer every question along the way.
“Strongly recommended, both the destination and Cheeky Kiwi…”
Everything was handled well, from an on-time pickup to a high-quality bus and a wonderful guide. Hobbiton itself was unforgettable — a must when visiting Auckland.
“An experience that will live forever in our lives”
The guide was knowledgeable and fun, making for a genuinely unforgettable tour, while the driver was lovely, friendly and personable throughout.
“Bringing a movie to life by visiting the movie set and…”
A great tour taking in plenty of beautiful countryside on the drive between Auckland and Hobbiton. Seeing the set brought back fond memories of the Lord of the Rings films from decades ago, and guide Simon shared good history and information about the various sites passed along the way.
“Tour to the Hobbiton Movie Set”
A great day at the Hobbiton Movie Set — the tour was amazing and well organised, and thoroughly enjoyed by the couple.
“Magical day out”
Guide Jeoff shared facts along the way and helped introduce everyone in the manageable 15-person group before handing them over safely to the Hobbiton guides. The set itself exceeded expectations, with real materials, gardens and even real animals creating an incredibly detailed shire. The ride home included an ice cream stop and a New Zealand trivia quiz with chocolate prizes — a genuinely enjoyable day the reviewer recommends.
“A wonderful tour... it's Hobbiton, after all!”
Guide Grint took great care of the group, sharing plenty of anecdotes and interesting facts about New Zealand along the way, and the bus ran on schedule without any issues. A wonderful tour of an already wonderful destination — recommended especially for those who can't easily buy their own Hobbiton tickets.
“Fantastic day trip”
Great fun, and genuinely incredible to see the movie set of their favourite films in person. Guide Grant was friendly and in great spirits throughout, making for a very enjoyable day.
“Comfortable Bus, Great Tour Group Size”
A great experience with an amazing tour guide, Pearl, who was attentive and great company on the drive — the reviewer wished she could have come into Hobbiton with them too. The whole group had a spectacular time.
“Enjoyed the landscape and the reproduction within the buildings”
A very good tour with an informative guide, though the audio system on the bus wasn't working properly.
“Excellent experience!”
Cheeky Kiwi ran a really professional trip to Hobbiton - the driver was punctual, helpful and knowledgeable, and the whole tour was well organised. Everyone in the group had a great time and thoroughly enjoyed the day. Highly recommended.
“Great Trip to Hobbiton”
A wonderful Cheeky Kiwi tour to Hobbiton. Guide Liam was funny, helpful and extremely knowledgeable, and kept the trip upbeat and entertaining while sharing plenty about the local area and its history. He went out of his way to make sure everyone had a great time, and this reviewer would happily book with Cheeky Kiwi again.
“A must for LOTR fans”
The guide was knowledgeable and engaging, making the long drive pleasant, and Hobbiton itself was fantastic - a great way to do this day trip from Auckland.
“A must for Hobbit fans”
An excellent tour of Hobbiton - loved walking around the hobbit holes, a must for LOTR fans. The driver from Auckland was on time and informative both ways.
“I would do this tour again”
A very pleasant tour - Hobbiton is beautiful, and there was enough time to see all the main hobbit houses and even go inside a couple of them.
“A Day of Magic: Hobbiton”
A dream come true - Hobbiton was magical, and driver Simon gave plenty of historical commentary along the way. The ice cream stop was a nice bonus.
“A very worthwhile Hobbiton tour.”
A great trip - driver Grant was friendly, outgoing and knowledgeable about New Zealand history and Maori culture, sharing plenty of good stories on a comfortable drive. Great to finally see Hobbiton, and pre-trip communication with Cheeky Kiwi was quick and efficient.
“Hobbiton movie set”
A must for Lord of the Rings fans - the amazing scenery makes it feel like stepping into the movie. Visited in February with perfect weather and blue skies, great for photos. Driver Sam was knowledgeable and drove very safely, earning a well-deserved five stars.
“Incredible day”
A great day with so much to see - the guide was lovely and gave lots of background information. Perfect outing.
“Experience Hobbiton live as a fan”
A super tour - the guide brought the story to life in a funny, interactive way and everything ran smoothly. The driver handled the journey safely and comfortably in a new bus with plenty of space and comfortable seats.
“Excellent experience”
A fantastic tour to Hobbiton - the guide was punctual, organised, and shared great insights into local culture. Highly recommended.
“The Hobbiton Movie Set Tours”
A wonderful trip to the Hobbiton movie set, with a great experience seeing all the movie scenes. The bus ride from pickup to drop-off was accommodating, and the driver was a great, knowledgeable guy who was really informative about the areas passed through.
“Great trip”
A great trip with good commentary and service from driver Greg - strongly recommends this day tour with Cheeky Kiwi for both Hobbit fans and non-fans alike.
“A ‘must do’ in New Zealand”
Went in not knowing what to expect, having never read the books or seen the films, and came away thoroughly impressed - a great day out that doesn't require being a fan to enjoy.
“An enjoyable day”
The roughly two-hour drive to the Hobbiton movie set flew by thanks to the scenery and guide Sam, who shared information about New Zealand and looked after the group throughout. After lunch at the on-site cafe, a shuttle took everyone to the set with guide McKenzie, who was excellent - the set itself felt incredibly real, with attention to the smallest details. Highly recommend Sam and Cheeky Kiwi for this tour.
“A wonderful road trip to Hobbiton”
Really enjoyed the trip to Hobbiton with Cheeky Kiwi and guide Cam, who shared a lot about New Zealand and gave helpful tips and suggestions for planning the rest of the trip around Auckland and New Zealand.
Our family was lucky to have Grant drive us from Auckland to Hobbiton - a genuinely amazing experience.
“Amazing outstanding experience”
One of the best experiences of this reviewer's life, thanks to driver Grant's extensive knowledge of Auckland - he was amazing and handled a small hiccup on the day very professionally. Highly recommends Cheeky Kiwi Travel for a Hobbiton experience of a lifetime.
“It was wonderful weather timing was coordinated well in the…”
Guide Cam from Cheeky Kiwi was a lovely person, and every moment of the tour was enjoyed - the site itself was fantastic too. The organisation was perfect, with easy pickup at the stated place and time.
“Great Tour Guide and Tours”
A great time visiting Hobbiton - driver Richard did a great job, knowledgeable with a good sense of humour, and gave commentary on the area. Highly recommends Cheeky Kiwi tours and a visit to Hobbiton.
“Super fun.”
A super fun day - picked up right on time by driver Cam, who talked a lot about New Zealand and Hobbiton along the way. Highly recommended.
“Lovely experience”
Driver Grant was lovely, and although Cheeky Kiwi made a mistake with the ticket ordering that caused about an hour's delay, Grant handled it well. The Hobbiton tour was still well worth it.
“Informative and fun”
Driver Ben shared plenty of information about New Zealand's history and Maori legends during the drive to and from the movie set, and happily answered questions about recommendations around the country. The Hobbiton tour itself was well organised and enjoyable, and on the way back Ben took the group to his hometown for delicious ice cream from a local dairy farm.
Booked the Hobbiton tour and couldn't be happier with the service - our guide Matt was really knowledgeable and friendly. My wife and kids said it was one of the best days of any holiday we've had. Totally recommend.
“Beautiful place to visit!”
A great tour with timely hotel pickup and a wonderful experience at Hobbiton, though a little more time at the Shire shop afterwards would have been nice.
“Excellent tour for Tolkien fans”
Driver Rich provided extensive information about Auckland, much appreciated as first-time visitors, and was personable and fun on the drive to Hobbiton. At the site, guide Chris's knowledge of Hobbiton's history and its ties to the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies made the trip memorable, with the fully furnished hobbit holes the definite highlight.
“Cheeky Kiwi tour to Hobbiton”
A fantastic tour with driver Dave from Cheeky Kiwi, who drove expertly through very wet conditions and shared great information about the areas passed along the way. Hobbiton itself was a great experience, with friendly guides and drivers and beautiful farm scenery.
“Great tour! Even for someone who’s not seen the movies”
Jeoff was an excellent driver and guide, sharing plenty of New Zealand knowledge on the way to and from Hobbiton. The tour was worthwhile even for someone who'd only seen one Hobbit film and none of the Lord of the Rings movies - the set design is incredible.
“Best day ever!!!”
Absolutely blown away by the entire tour from start to finish - couldn't have been happier with any part of it.
“Hats off to Jeoff!”
Guide Jeoffrey was amazing - his knowledge and kindness were impressive, and he kept the whole group entertained all day. Would love to have him as a guide again.
“Highly recommend!”
The driver/guide was excellent - knowledgeable, entertaining, polite and helpful, making for a wonderful tour.
“A day trip to remember”
An awesome experience - driver Dave was enthusiastic with a great attitude and lots of information to share, making for a lot of fun.
“Trust Cheeky Kiwi with your day!”
An excellent Hobbiton tour with Cheeky Kiwi - driver/guide Cam was engaging with a full van of mixed ages, some big LOTR fans and others with no knowledge of it, and made the long drive fly by while staying prompt with times. Cam drives to Hobbiton, where a shuttle takes the group to the Shire for a 2.5-hour walking tour with a different guide (Chris was excellent) that includes going inside a hobbit house and hearing how the movies were filmed there. A fun, worthwhile day with a surprise stop on the way back - would happily book with Cheeky Kiwi again.
“Great family-friendly Hobbiton day trip”
A family of three, including a seven-year-old, took the Cheeky Kiwi tour from Auckland to Hobbiton in early January and found it smooth, well-paced and family-friendly. Pickup was right on time, the small group felt relaxed and personal, and light snacks, water and scenic stops helped keep their child entertained on the drive, along with working WiFi on the way there. At Hobbiton, the 2.5-hour guided tour was well-timed for both adults and a curious child, with another 1.5 hours to shop and explore at leisure without feeling rushed. The only downsides were the WiFi not working on the return trip and a vehicle that could use some maintenance, but overall it was a well-organised, enjoyable day.
“This tour is a Must Do in Auckland!”
Coming off a cruise ship, the Mövenpick Hotel pickup point was a convenient five-minute walk from the terminal. Guide Timmy was amazing - welcoming, energetic and accommodating to every guest's needs - and the time at Hobbiton became a real highlight of the trip. Highly recommends Cheeky Kiwi tours.
“Recommend doing”
A great experience, highly recommended - the tour team was lovely and taught the group a lot. Driver Matt was great, showing off other parts of New Zealand with a few stops along the way from Auckland.
“Grant was amazing, it was wonderful!”
Grant was an amazing guide - kind and full of things to share, creating a friendly atmosphere on the bus that made it easy to connect with the other people on the tour.
“Adventures”
A great experience with nice views and a good, informative guide, plus comfortable transportation throughout.
“A Hobbity Adventure”
A nice small-group tour in a minibus with guide Timmy, who shared information about Auckland and the countryside on the roughly two-hour drive to the Hobbiton movie set. A different guide, Andrew, then led the group around the farm and attractions before Timmy picked everyone up for the drive back to Auckland. The only downside was limited time for lunch and the gift shop, but otherwise a great tour.
“Hobbiton Tour fun!”
A great family experience on the Hobbiton tour with guide Simon, who was friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable about the New Zealand area. Highly recommended.
“Hobbiton Small Group Tour from Auckland”
A seamless experience with a very friendly group - Simon was a fantastic guide, offering great insights about the area and recommendations for travelling New Zealand. Overall a wonderful trip.
“Family of 4 round trip Auckland to Hobbiton”
Cheeky Kiwi proved a fantastic way for this family of four to visit Hobbiton from Auckland, with clear, prompt communication leading up to the trip. Driver Alessandro arrived exactly on time and was engaging and knowledgeable, sharing anecdotes about points of interest and culture and including rest stops for coffee and ice cream. The weather at Hobbiton was perfect and the experience lived up to the hype - grounds were meticulously maintained and the guides knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The family highly recommends the tour, particularly enjoying Alessandro's company and hospitality.
“Absolutely Wonderful”
Driver Timmy's wealth of local knowledge made a great experience even better. Cheeky Kiwi Travels is absolutely the way to go - highly recommended.
“Family Tour to Hobbiton”
With direct Hobbiton tickets sold out, this family was fortunate to find Cheeky Kiwi's tour instead, and it turned out to be a highlight of the trip. Guide Brad educated the group throughout the drive there and back with interesting facts and stories, and was knowledgeable, engaging and great with all the passengers on a well-paced, informative journey. Highly recommends Brad and the Cheeky Kiwi team, and would book again for future New Zealand travel.
“Great family fun - going on an adventure”
Outstanding pickup from Auckland and a great Hobbiton tour experience - Cheeky Kiwi is highly recommended, and driver Ark was great too.
“Don’t miss this bringing to life of Tolkien’s shire”
A well-organised pickup from the CBD in a comfortable mini bus, with a beautiful drive out through the countryside and comfort breaks both ways. Entry into Hobbiton was seamless despite it being very busy (worth going off-peak if possible), and the gardens were in full bloom on a gorgeous sunny day. Guides Ali (on the bus) and Hayden (at Hobbiton) were excellent, and the complimentary drink at the Green Dragon and the fully furnished hobbit house were particular highlights. Having read all the books, this reviewer felt the tour really brought the setting to life with carefully worked-through details, even though it's a busy, touristy experience overall.
“Great Tour Operator!”
Great tour service and guide - being in a smaller Mercedes Sprinter van rather than a 30-50 passenger bus made it feel much more personal. Highly recommended.
“Cheekykiwi travel delivered a great experience.”
A fabulous two-part tour - driver Simon transported the group to the Hobbiton movie set over a two-hour drive filled with history and information, including a scenic detour off the highway through picturesque countryside. At the set, a different guide led a short ride and then a walking tour with commentary throughout the paths. Highly recommended for any LOTR or Hobbit fan.
“Excellent day!”
The driver did an amazing job navigating safely to Hobbiton and back to Auckland despite heavy rain, providing commentary on sites along the way plus water and snacks. As huge LOTR fans, the experience more than met expectations.
“Awesome experience!”
Cheeky Kiwi driver Ark was knowledgeable and friendly, and Hobbiton tour guide Yuna was equally knowledgeable, sharing a detailed account and fun facts about the movie set. Highly recommended.
“Highly recommend Cheeky Kiwi for a seamless visit to Hobbiton”
Vicky was a fabulous driver and guide - going solo (only one ticket was available) turned out to be a great choice. The drive to Hobbiton was scenic with Vicky a fountain of knowledge, and the site itself was brilliant, extremely well run, with Vicky making sure everyone was ticketed and knew where to regroup. An amazing, immersive experience highly recommended to fans of the films.
“Hobbiton Visit”
A great Hobbiton adventure - guide Trent was professional and knowledgeable on the drive, explaining the areas passed through, while Liam's tour of Hobbiton itself was magnificent. Seeing all the hobbit homes made watching the films feel more real, knowing the set has been left permanently in place for fans.
“Thank you, Jayme for the excellent tour!”
Lucky to get Jayme as guide/driver - new to the Cheeky Kiwi team but did an excellent job, sharing interesting insights and stories including a valuable Maori perspective. She was prompt with pickups, drove safely, and was attentive to the group, even bringing umbrellas out when it started raining at a rest stop. The tour to Hobbiton was well organised, and it was a relief that Cheeky Kiwi still had tickets available given how hard they are to come by.
“Family - Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Auckland”
Thoroughly enjoyed the tour with Jeoff from Cheeky Kiwi - friendly, knowledgeable and full of great commentary on the drive both to and from Hobbiton. Jeoff allowed the perfect amount of time for breaks and for wandering after the movie set tour, and even stopped for ice cream on the way home. The whole family had a great time and highly recommends Cheeky Kiwi for their excellent hospitality.
“Whole experience”
The guide was amazing, fun and delightful, giving a full sense of New Zealand's history and culture through her stories and guidance.
“Go and you’ll not regret it”
Wasn't sure what to expect but had a great time - the place is magical with awesome views, the guide was brilliant and knowledgeable, and the food was good and reasonably priced.
“I love it”
An excellent, super friendly driver who was always willing to help. Hobbiton was one of the greatest places this reviewer has ever visited - highly recommended to anyone considering it.
“Hobbiton! Your dream come true”
Absolutely amazing - a tour nobody should miss. Driver Ale and tour guide Karin from Berlin were both great, sharing plenty of background knowledge.
“10/10, highly recommended”
A great day at Hobbiton with Cheeky Kiwi - picked up on time, with driver Liam giving a great tour the whole way to and from the Shire.
“Nice dip into the epic world of hobbits”
Ben was an excellent narrator on the roughly two-hour drive each way, sharing local knowledge and legends. Hobbiton itself was charming, with astonishing attention to detail and beautifully kept grounds, and umbrellas were on hand when a few showers rolled through. The only letdown was a mix-up over the confirmed pickup spot.
“Great experience at Hobbiton”
A fantastic tour - the guide was personable, accommodating and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend to anyone.
“Just wow”
The site was beautiful and much bigger than expected. The guide/driver was friendly, personable and clearly knowledgeable about New Zealand history and facts.
“Hobbiton”
A brilliant tour from start to finish, well above expectations. Ali was a great host throughout, and the ice cream stop on the way back with a complimentary drink was a nice touch.
“Amazing trip!”
An amazing experience - driver Grant took great care of the group, making the day comfortable, informative and fun. The Hobbiton set itself is of course the peak of the experience. Highly recommends booking through Cheeky Kiwi.
“Easy, fun & full Hobbiton tour”
A great, well-run tour with good communication and punctual pickup. Guide Mark balanced the two-hour drive nicely with commentary, music and quiet time, and the Hobbiton guide was informative, funny and accommodating, making good use of the time for sightseeing, lunch and shopping.
“Amazing day out at Hobbiton movie set 🇮🇪🇳🇿⭐😀”
A wonderful day out, even for a third-time visitor - the reviewer's aunt, visiting from Ireland, loved it too. Guide Ani was knowledgeable, kind and friendly, and the group was a pleasant bunch. The guide at the Hobbiton movie set itself was also friendly and helpful, and the reviewer says it's worth doing even without having read the books or seen the films, with convenient pickup from central Auckland.
“A great experience”
An excellent excursion - driver Simon's commentary was friendly, professional and funny. The guide at Hobbiton was equally good, knowledgeable about the books and films and skilled at linking what we saw on the ground to specific movie scenes. A thoroughly enjoyable day the reviewer would happily repeat.
“Unmissable for Tolkein Fans”
A wonderful experience - driver Dave was excellent, picked the reviewer up on time and looked after the group of 11 well, even offering tips like sitting on the right side of the bus. He also kept an eye on their purchases while they toured the movie set.
“Amazing tour.”
Wasn't sure what to expect but was pleasantly surprised - the village exceeded expectations, with an incredible level of detail kept up by a friendly garden team and staff. Guide James's enthusiasm for all things Lord of the Rings was infectious, and driver Grant was friendly and informative on the way to Matamata. The drive home dragged a bit due to city traffic, but overall it was a great day.
“Great tour for the money. Must do.”
A well-organised and informative tour - guide Yen did a good job keeping a large group of 40 engaged, even those unfamiliar with the films, though the reviewer felt that group size was a bit much for this kind of tour. Shuttle driver Simon was excellent too, sharing plenty of New Zealand history and even remembering everyone's travel plans.
“Thank you Cheeky Kiwi!”
Driver Simon was kind throughout and even offered good recommendations for places to eat and things to do. At Hobbiton, guide Wyatt was warm and funny, sharing plenty of fun Lord of the Rings facts. Overall the day was perfect.
“Walk through the Middle Earth”
A great experience with a comfortable transfer from Auckland to Matamata and Hobbiton. The tour through the village pointed out the iconic sites seen in the Lord of the Rings films.
“‘Twas lovely”
A fabulous tour - guide Cam kept everyone entertained on the drive, and Hobbiton itself was incredible. Highly recommended.
“Trip to see Hobbiton”
A bucket-list trip made easy by driver Simon, who was polite and accommodating throughout, though the reviewer (at 6 feet tall) found the van seating a little cramped.
“Great tour with a excellent Driver/guide”
One of the best days of the trip - driver/guide Grant was friendly and knowledgeable about New Zealand and Auckland, making the ride in the comfortable Mercedes mini-coach genuinely interesting. Hobbiton itself lived up to expectations, and seeing the Shire in real life felt special. A relaxed, comfortable and slightly magical day out, thanks in large part to Grant.
“Love Hobbiton.”
A must-see on the North Island - incredible attention to detail, and the reviewer's 10-year-old daughter loved the hobbit houses. The tour included fascinating stories about how the films were made, plus a highlight stop inside a furnished hobbit house for photos, and lunch at the visitor centre cafe was good too. The van transfer was clean, convenient and safely driven, though the air conditioning struggled on the hot return trip and a rushed, crowded ice cream stop meant they missed out. Still, an experience the reviewer recommends.
“An Unexpected Journey: Hobbiton Edition”
A legendary experience - guide Arc was professional, warm and punctual for pickup, and shared plenty of interesting facts about New Zealand and the Hobbiton movie set along the way, plus handy travel tips. An unforgettable day the reviewer would happily recommend, capped off with a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.
“Wonderful trip to the Hobbiton!”
The Hobbiton movie set trip from Auckland was well worth it, built around both the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Guide Brent was wonderful, knowledgeable and helpful, and the reviewer particularly liked getting to step inside one of the hobbit houses at the end of the tour.
“Enjoying day trip at Hobbiton and the weather was glorious.”
Very satisfied with the booking - the driver was friendly and kept the group engaged on the way to Hobbiton with knowledge of local plants and birds, and driving felt safe throughout.
Our day on the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour was a real highlight of our New Zealand trip, thanks largely to our driver and guide Grant. He had deep knowledge of New Zealand history, particularly Auckland's, and kept the drive both informative and relaxing in a comfortable coach. The full Movie Set tour itself was every bit as magical as we'd hoped, seeing the Shire brought to life, and Grant's professionalism and warmth made the whole day seamless. Would highly recommend this tour.
“Great experience with a wonderful guide”
A great time thanks to guide Alfredo, who shared plenty of information about the day, Auckland and New Zealand generally. The Hobbiton visit itself went smoothly and was thoroughly enjoyable.
“Amazing tour with a wonderful guide”
A great experience with guide Alfredo, who shared interesting facts about New Zealand and Hobbiton on the way. Two further guides showed the group around the movie set itself before the return to Sky City.
“Very nice time!”
A great day out - driver Simon was knowledgeable and accommodating, and the reasonably small group size (around 14) made it easy to meet other travellers.
“Day trip to hobbiton with cheeky kiwi”
A great option for getting to Hobbiton without a car in Auckland, with well-organised pickup and drop-off. Driver Grant was a highlight - friendly and knowledgeable, making the journey there and back entertaining.
A fantastic day out on the tour to Hobbiton - our guide Jeff gave informative and entertaining commentary throughout, and was a safe, punctual driver.
“Cheeky Kiwi trip to Hobbiton”
A great trip that's well worth it, especially for Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fans. The guide was very friendly and allowed plenty of time at each stop.
“Absolutely enjoyed it!”
A fantastic, not-to-be-missed experience - guide Mackenzie was knowledgeable and entertaining throughout.
“Lovely Kiwi Tour :)”
Grant was excellent, keeping the group entertained with local stories and travel tips during the drive. The afternoon ice cream stop was a nice touch, and the reviewer would recommend Cheeky Kiwi for other New Zealand tours too.
“Best guide. Awesome service.”
Loved guide Alfredo and the overall service - a fun experience the reviewer would recommend to friends and family, and good for meeting other travellers too.
“Well run tour”
An excellent tour with driver Cam - the roughly two-hour drive each way was smooth and comfortable, broken up by coffee and ice cream stops, with the option to grab lunch at the Hobbiton cafe. A full day out from 10am to 6:30pm that the reviewer recommends even to non-LOTR fans.
“Great day, great driver!”
A fabulous, well-run trip from start to finish - driver Kim was friendly and kept everyone informed throughout the day.
“Awesome trip!”
A wonderful tour - driver Kim was fantastic and made the trip amazing from start to finish.
“100% Recommend Hobbiton Tour”
An experience the reviewer's family will cherish - staff were super friendly and it was great fun throughout. Definitely recommended.
“100/100”
The best experience with Cheeky Kiwi - pickup was right on time and the driver was a class act, treating everyone with respect and getting the group to Hobbiton safely. 100/100 service.
“Super professional, friendly and enjoyable trip to Hobbiton!”
A fantastic small-group tour from start to finish - as a family of LOTR fans, seeing the rolling green hills of the Shire up close was a real thrill. Guide Grant kept everyone entertained and informed with facts about New Zealand's geology and history, and the whole day felt smooth and well-organised. The company was also very helpful afterwards when a son left something behind on the bus, promptly returning it.
“Beyond our expectations!”
A thoroughly enjoyable trip that exceeded expectations - the farmland setting of Hobbiton was beautiful and refreshingly uncommercialised. Driver Michael was friendly, personable and easy to understand, and the route included welcome stops for restrooms and snacks. The reviewer would happily use this company again for other small-group New Zealand tours.
“Magic experience”
A beautiful, unmissable experience with a very friendly driver who kept everything running smoothly. A magical place for anyone who loves the Lord of the Rings saga.
“Hobbitton tour experience”
Guide Grant was amazing - attentive, safety-conscious and full of great local tips and information about the region. Highly recommended.
“Incredible time!”
A bucket-list trip made stress-free by booking with Cheeky Kiwi. Guide Ari was the absolute best, making for great company and conversation throughout the day.
“Bucket list New Zealand item!”
A fantastic, must-do experience for Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fans - worth noting that the small-group tag applies to the minibus only, since at Hobbiton itself you join a larger coach group of up to 60. Driver Grant was one of the friendliest guides around, sharing plenty of knowledge about New Zealand and Hobbiton on the comfortable, roughly two-hour drive, with water and a snack provided along the way. The movie set tour itself covers all 44 hobbit holes over about two and a half hours, with time to take photos, and includes a stop at the Green Dragon Inn for a complimentary drink. Guide Dom's deep knowledge of Lord of the Rings stood out, and the return trip included a stop at a well-known ice cream shop. Overall a highly recommended day out, and the reviewer plans to book with Cheeky Kiwi again for future New Zealand trips.
“Absolutely amazing experience, a must do!”
Guide Ale was absolutely amazing - patient when the group ran a little late, and entertaining and funny for the entire ride both ways. He made the day especially memorable and fun.
“Perfect Day Trip to Hobbiton!”
A fantastic experience with Cheeky Kiwi Travel - driver Simon went above and beyond, taking time to personally welcome each guest and help a solo traveller feel connected to the group. The group arrived with plenty of time for lunch before the tour, and on the sunny return drive Simon took a scenic route with an unplanned ice cream stop, plus dinner recommendations for Auckland. He also checked in caringly when the reviewer got carsick on the way back. Overall a pleasant surprise that the reviewer would happily book again.
“Hobbiton Movie set small group tour”
A wonderful day thanks to driver/guide Jeff, with fantastic weather and an amazing visit to Hobbiton. Jeff encouraged the group to share a bit about themselves, shared plenty of Auckland tips and New Zealand history, and made sure everyone got dropped back at their hotels after a long day. Highly recommended, and the reviewer is already looking forward to a future Cheeky Kiwi trip.
“Wonderful day in The Shire…..”
A perfect day - the group met in Auckland city for a lovely drive down to the Shire. A wonderful tour full of lovely memories, highly recommended.
“Hobbiton ist die Reise wert”
A truly worthwhile trip to the movie set - guide Grant was kind, knowledgeable and helpful, sharing fascinating stories about New Zealand's history and landscape along the way. Seeing the charming hobbit holes up close was a highlight, and although the reviewer had hoped for a couple more stops en route, the ice cream on the way back made up for it.
“Awesome”
As lifelong Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fans, visiting Hobbiton was a great experience - fantastic to see the actual filming location in person, and another item ticked off the bucket list.
“Hobbiton movie set Great day out to”
Right on time with a great, friendly and informative driver - the Hobbiton movie set was well worth the trip down from Auckland.
“Highly Recommended!”
A brilliant day from start to finish, not just the Hobbiton visit itself. Guide Simon was knowledgeable about the area and made a point of checking in on everyone during the bus tour - definitely a company worth booking with.
“A Fun and Relaxing Experience”
Guide Simon was kind and cheerful, sharing plenty of interesting stories about New Zealand on the drive from the city to Hobbiton. A really enjoyable day.
“Totally recommend Cheeky Kiwi Travel! 💚”
Totally recommend Cheeky Kiwi Travel - everything ran on time in a spotless, comfortable van. Guide Pearl was a gem, kind and funny, and clearly loves the job, making the reviewer's first solo trip feel safe and full of good energy.
“There and Back Again”
An excellent tour - driver/guide Kim was friendly, energetic and knowledgeable about the sights all the way from Auckland to Hobbiton, and the vans were clean and comfortable. The Hobbiton movie set is a must-see, with incredible attention to detail.
“I highly recommend”
Easy pickup, comfortable seats and complimentary water and snacks made for a smooth trip, with comfort stops available on request. Guide Simon was knowledgeable and generous with information about the region's history and geography, creating a great atmosphere throughout.
“Wonderful!”
An excellent tour and guide - a must when visiting Auckland. It genuinely feels like stepping into the movie set, with picturesque hobbit holes throughout.
“Wonderful experience.”
A wonderful experience - the ride from Auckland to Matamata was comfortable and easy, and the driver/guide was helpful, even with pickup logistics. Hobbiton itself was out of this world, a must-see for any Tolkien fan, with informative guides and a genuinely surreal atmosphere that the reviewer says is worth the admission fee.
“Organized, interesting, and friendly”
An excellent, well-organised and efficient tour - driver/guide Grant shared lots of interesting details about New Zealand's landscape and history during the drive.
“Fantastic tour”
Amazing from start to finish - driver Simon kept things entertaining on the two-hour drive from Auckland, and guide Paul was knowledgeable and entertaining around Hobbiton itself. Well worth a visit for film fans.
“Hobbiton day trip from Auckland”
Enjoyed the Hobbiton experience, with good on-site guides and plenty of references to the film locations. The real highlight though was guide Grant on the drive to and from Auckland, who covered geology, ecosystems, local agriculture and culture, making for a great introduction to New Zealand on the reviewer's first day.
“Very fun!”
Very fun - guide Simon was informative and upbeat, clearly caring about giving the group a comfortable journey and a great overall experience.
“Amazing.”
An amazing experience - the attendants and guides were lovely and attentive. Recommended.
“Nice day!”
Such a good time - driver Chris was kind, helpful and funny, sharing plenty of interesting information along the way. Really enjoyed both the ride and the time spent at Hobbiton.
“Dependable company”
Picked up at the Crowne Plaza just before 10am, the shuttle was comfortable for the long drive, with a stop each way. The driver offered to look after bags and jackets while the group toured the park and handed out tickets and instructions clearly. Overall a good experience worth recommending, though snacks weren't provided (just bottled water), and the reviewer notes it's not well suited to cruise passengers on a tight schedule.
“Amazing Hobbiton Tour with a Fantastic Driver”
A wonderful experience visiting Hobbiton - the driver was friendly, cheerful and knowledgeable, making the long drive enjoyable with good stories and humour. Everything was well-organised, and the small group size added to the comfort. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Auckland.
“Absolutely awesome trip”
Such a nice day with great company and a superb guide - Nicky was friendly, funny and hugely knowledgeable, sharing interesting information about the country, its history and the movie set.
“Wonderful”
A very nice driver gave a great explanation of Auckland and the surrounding countryside, and the Hobbiton tour was an amazing attraction even for those who aren't dedicated Hobbit fans.
“Fun fun fun”
A great, fun and interesting day - Grant was punctual and knowledgeable, keeping the drive lively with tidbits about Auckland's history and culture (and a good playlist too).
“Excellent excursion”
An excellent excursion to Hobbiton, with on-time transport and a driver who kept the journey engaging with information about the sights and what to expect at the site. Everything was clearly explained and ran smoothly — a well-organised trip the reviewer highly recommends.
“😁”
The driver kept everyone informed and entertained while checking on their needs throughout. The only complaint was wishing for a pickup point closer to the airport, which meant relying on Uber to get there and back.
“Wonderful driver and a great tour”
Driver Chris did a wonderful job, being friendly, helpful and informative, and even allowed a stop for ice cream. The tour was a very pleasant, awe-inspiring experience the reviewer would rate even higher if they could.
“A Fantastic day”
A fantastic, well spent and unforgettable day, with guide Simon lovely and accommodating throughout.
“Amazing tour”
Guide Cheeky Chris was amazing, and the tour itself was incredible — the movie set was very well presented, with umbrellas or whatever else was needed provided along the way.
“A dream come true for a huge Lord of the Rings fan”
A great day out with tour guide Grant, who was lovely and full of information. For a huge Lord of the Rings fan, seeing Hobbiton was a dream come true, and the reviewer highly recommends the tour.
“Wonderful hobbiton!”
Both driver and guide were courteous and shared interesting history. Hobbiton itself was well organised, with a friendly and knowledgeable guide.
“Going on an Adventure!”
A relaxed later start around 10am suited this reviewer well. The Mercedes sprinter was comfortable, and guide Cheeky Chris was enthusiastic, with an on-site guide adding trivia throughout the Hobbiton visit. The set itself was majestic, the hobbit-hole detail impressive (though most interiors are display-only, aside from Bilbo Baggins' hobbit hole which couldn't be entered), and a drink at the Green Dragon Inn plus an ice cream stop on the way back rounded out a worthwhile day despite on-and-off rain.
“Magical Experience with a Cheeky Guide!”
A great tour thanks to guide Cheeky Simon, who was friendly, funny, and engaging throughout. Travelling in a comfortable luxury vehicle added an extra touch of ease and style to the day — highly recommended.
“Worth the expense and time”
Booked at the last minute, this tour was still easy to arrange and everyone involved was extremely helpful. It felt authentic, and the group was a great one to share the day with — very well done and highly recommended.
“One Happy Chappy 😊”
An all-round amazing day, with informative and considerate tour guides and stunning views of the site. Plenty of fun facts were learned along the way.
“Luxury bus and knowledgeable driver”
Guide Cheeky Michael was very knowledgeable about Auckland, and the group travelled in style in a comfortable luxury Mercedes bus for the long drive — Cheeky Kiwi comes recommended.
“HOBBITON by Grant and Simon”
Guides Grant and Simon were the best, making for a tour the reviewer loved and would happily repeat with this company on a future visit to New Zealand.
“Nice tour and trip”
A very nice tour where the two-hour journey there and back wasn't boring at all thanks to good information along the way. A nice, small group that was well looked after throughout.
A fantastic visit to Hobbiton with Simon and Grant - without doubt the best tour company in New Zealand.
“Unforgettable experience with cheeky kiwi”
Guide John was knowledgeable and attentive throughout, making for an enjoyable tour despite rain and a traffic delay caused by an accident. The trivia included along the way was a nice touch during the unexpected wait.
“Fun ,exciting, we learned alot . The hobbiton was so much…”
A great tour guide made for a fun, engaging day the reviewer would happily do again, praising the hospitality, service, and the guide's knowledge throughout.
“Hobbiton Trip!”
Cheeky Kiwi delivered a great Hobbiton experience, with a warm welcome on the bus and friendly treatment of the whole group. Fun facts about Auckland and the area kept everyone entertained, and the reviewer would recommend the trip to friends and other couples looking for things to do in Auckland.
“Scenes from the world of cinema itself”
The driver and guide kept the mood upbeat with plenty of jokes and interesting stories, and even getting caught in the rain along the way didn't dampen the experience.
“:)”
Guide Jeoff was amazing, and Hobbiton itself was a perfect 10 out of 10. Pickup and drop-off were smooth throughout — recommended.
“Amazing experience”
An unforgettable day with interesting information about Auckland, New Zealand's monuments, and local culture shared during the bus ride. The trip was well organised with enough time to shop or grab a coffee, and guide Chris made sure everyone stayed comfortable throughout.
“Best tour day”
Driver Matt was personable and knowledgeable, showing plenty of patience with some awkward passengers, and the reviewer felt safe with his driving throughout.
“Magnificent, Magical Adventure at Hobbiton.”
This reviewer thanks Cheeky Kiwi Travel guide Matt for a wonderful Hobbiton adventure, starting with a punctual pickup from Sky City and an informative, outstanding commentary along the way that left them well prepared for the day. Hobbiton itself has to be seen to be believed, with meticulous attention to detail making for a truly magnificent experience.
“Well worth it.”
Our guide Liam picked us up right on time and the small-bus ride out to Hobbiton was comfortable. He sorted our tickets and left us time to browse and grab a bite before the guided tour started. The drive back to Auckland took a different, scenic route. A well-run day all round.
“Wonder and Awe”
We're from Australia and had guide Liam for our Hobbiton tour, and he was fantastic from the moment he greeted us. Knowledgeable, enthusiastic and welcoming, he even taught the group how to say 'yes' in Māori along the way. The whole day was a delight and we'll happily recommend Liam and this company to others.
“Awesome adventure with Cheeky Kiwi tours”
A fantastic family day out — Hobbiton itself is magical, and Cheeky Kiwi Travel looked after us well. Our driver Chris was informative and helpful throughout. Highly recommend using them for your tours.
“Definitely a must do for all LOTR & Hobbit fans!”
An excellent small tour company with a fantastic driver-guide who was very knowledgeable and kept everyone entertained. On top of that, the Hobbiton tour itself was an exceptional experience in its own right.
“Great for “Lord of the Rings” Enthusiasts or Just for Fun”
Cheeky Kiwi Travel got us safely out to the Hobbiton movie set with guide Nickey, a trip my husband had been looking forward to. We enjoyed the scenic countryside both ways, and the tour of the Alexander farm site was genuinely fun — a great memory from our first full day in Auckland. The Shire setting itself is charming and full of interesting details.
“FANTASTIC ESPERANCE AND WOULD DEFENTALY REC”
Admission went smoothly and the site wasn't overcrowded. Our driver Matt was excellent and very knowledgeable on the way to Hobbiton.
“Great day trip to Hobbiton from Auckland”
A great day trip to Hobbiton from Auckland. Our guide Hanoz kept the ride to and from the Alexander farm entertaining with engaging storytelling — practically a talk-show host. A great day out in Middle Earth.
“Great even if you haven’t seen the movies”
Hanoz was a brilliant guide who chatted with us the whole way and even let us plug in our own music. Hobbiton was amazing even though I'd never seen the movies, and the drive out is genuinely scenic. Couldn't recommend it more.
“Excellent Everything”
Our guides Aled, Kim and Mark were fantastic — pleasant, funny, knowledgeable and accommodating throughout. The set itself was as beautiful and picturesque as I'd hoped, and I'd happily go back. Cheeky Kiwi make the whole day easy: simple pickup, a coffee stop and interesting commentary on the way out, a seamless handover to the Hobbiton guides, then a fun ride back with an ice cream stop.
“Take me back to Hobbiton”
Matt was a legendary guide who gave us great insight into New Zealand's history on the way. The Hobbiton tour itself was a dream come true — an amazing day.
“Great tour!!”
Our guide Grant was fantastic — friendly, knowledgeable about both the region and Hobbiton, and happy to answer every question. The trip out included a coffee stop and plenty of local facts, with time for lunch before the tour began. The Hobbiton tour itself was well-paced and informative with great photo opportunities, and the drink at the Green Dragon was a nice touch. The drive back included more commentary and an ice cream stop in Pōkeno. Would absolutely recommend booking with Cheeky Kiwi, ideally with Grant as your driver.
“Can’t come to New Zealand without Visiting Hobbiton”
An amazing place, with great transport to and from Auckland via Cheeky Kiwi. Highly recommend for any Lord of the Rings fan — the gift shop is excellent too (I picked up a sterling silver One Ring). Bring plenty of storage for your camera or phone, because you'll take a lot of photos.
“Great Hobbiton experience!”
We booked a Hobbiton trip for our whole family visiting from the Philippines and it was smooth and memorable from start to finish. Driver Simon made it extra special — friendly, entertaining and accommodating, keeping us engaged with stories the whole way. The Hobbiton tour itself was magical, and the overall organisation made it stress-free. We'd definitely recommend Cheeky Kiwi Travel.
“Muhteşem”
Our guide Ale was very caring, and the tour took in some genuinely beautiful, natural scenery. I'd happily do it again.
“Excellence”
A spectacular day — Grant was super knowledgeable and experienced, sharing great local tips along the way. 10/10, would recommend.
“Highly recommend”
Hobbiton is beautiful even in winter. Our guide Ali was friendly and informative, and I learned quite a bit about New Zealand during the drive. Highly recommend.
“Hobbiton Holiday”
A great tour — Andrew guided us through the Hobbiton set itself and was excellent, while driver Hanoz made the journey fantastic and deserves real credit for it.
“Peaceful place”
Great guide and a well-run tour from pickup onward. We got plenty of general information about New Zealand, Auckland and Hobbiton along the way, and the van was comfortable with a power socket at every seat.
“Auckland to Hobbiton”
Our driver was very nice and got us to Hobbiton safely, with an ice cream stop afterwards. Would recommend.
“Overall a great day”
A fabulous, well-structured tour. The guides were funny, friendly and knowledgeable about both the film history and New Zealand more broadly. Highly recommend.
“Fantastic experience”
Aled — along with John, who was in training — was fabulous, giving us plenty of informative detail about both Hobbiton and New Zealand generally.
“Go on an Adventure to Hobbitton!”
Grant picked us up and went above and beyond all day — snacks and water included, a good ice cream recommendation, and plenty of information about Auckland and the surrounding areas on the way to Hobbiton. At the set, guide Ellie took us through with genuine warmth, sharing movie trivia and hidden details about the filming, including the intro video featuring Peter Jackson. Highlights included getting to step inside a hobbit house, seeing Bag End and Sam's home, and the complimentary drink at the Green Dragon. A truly memorable day thanks to Cheeky Kiwi Travel.
“Amazing, even on a stormy day”
Even on a very rainy day, our guide kept spirits high and gave us a good rundown of everyday life in New Zealand and what to expect. The local Hobbiton guide shared fun secrets about the hobbit holes and how the area was used during filming, and we got a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon — plus an extra Green Dragon stein as compensation for some construction work happening on site. On the way back our driver shared local history and legends, and we stopped for Hokey Pokey ice cream. A 10/10 day for any Middle-earth fan.
“Great day out with Simon our driver”
A great day out seeing the movie set. Guide James was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and quick with the puns, while driver Simon was kind and chatty, making an effort to get to know everyone on board.
“Will get you there and back safely”
There are really two parts to this experience: Cheeky Kiwi handles the transport from Auckland to Hobbiton and back, while a separate Hobbiton staff member runs the actual on-site tour. The on-site guide was excellent, deserving more than five stars. The transport side loses a star only because the drop-off point wasn't quite where I was originally picked up — a minor but slightly annoying inconvenience.
“Perfect... But late!”
The guides were excellent and the tour itself magical — my only gripe is the 10am Auckland pickup, which means you're not back until around 7pm. An earlier start would suit some travellers better, but if you're not an early riser this timing is ideal. Still recommend the tour.
“Great tour to Hobbiton”
A great trip — guide Michael was knowledgeable and friendly, the small group made it feel personal, and everything ran to schedule.
“Honestly, unforgettable”
Our driver Michael was fantastic — he kept us entertained, safe and well-informed throughout. As a big Tolkien fan, this was a day I'll never forget, and a lot of that comes down to how well the trip was run. Thanks to Cheeky Kiwi — a must whether you're a Tolkien nerd or not.
“Hobbiton Tour Experience”
Hobbiton itself was amazing — we didn't want to leave. Simon was a friendly guide who made sure everyone felt comfortable and included, sharing fun facts about Auckland and taking a scenic route back through the countryside and Hamilton, which added an extra bit of adventure to the day.
“Memorable Family time”
Fantastic all round — the guide, the stops along the way, and the attraction itself. The shops, café and tour guide were all excellent too.
“Very memorable experience”
A genuine pleasure — we learned a lot about how the films were made, and our guide Simon was friendly and got us safely to the set and back to Auckland.
“Once in a lifetime experience.”
A fun, unique experience seeing the movie set in person. Our Cheeky Kiwi guide was knowledgeable and set accurate expectations for the day, and the on-site tour was informative, hands-on and genuinely enjoyable for the whole family.
“5 stars!”
Simon was an amazing, friendly and knowledgeable guide. A great tour with beautiful weather and even better views.
“Hobbiton Experience”
Visiting Hobbiton felt like stepping into a fantasy world, nestled in the hills near Matamata and even more magical than expected. The detail in each hobbit hole — right down to the mailboxes and chimneys — is incredible, and our guide was enthusiastic and full of behind-the-scenes facts from the films. Sipping the specially brewed ale at the Green Dragon Inn made it feel like being part of the story, and the peaceful, well-tended gardens made the whole visit feel surreal. Worth it whether you're a die-hard fan or just love beautiful scenery — I'd go back in a heartbeat.
“Fabulous tour even on a rainy day!”
A fabulous tour — Grant was a knowledgeable, competent driver who kept everything running smoothly. My teenage granddaughter and I thoroughly enjoyed the day even though the weather was bleak and rainy. Highly recommend.
“The Hobbiton jaw droppingly beautiful”
The commute out was pleasant thanks to Michael, who kept things entertaining and got us there and back safely. Hobbiton itself is breathtaking — the level of detail is amazing, and the surrounding countryside with its cows, sheep and deer, and vividly green grass, is beautiful in its own right. You don't need to have seen the movies to appreciate it.
“Wow”
Incredible views and wonderful staff — a spectacular tour from start to finish. I'd need very little encouragement to go back.
“Awesome Tour”
An amazing tour — Hobbiton itself is awesome and definitely worthwhile. Thanks to Cheeky Kiwi, and I'd recommend them for group tours too.
“Breathtakingly beautiful”
Absolutely loved the Hobbiton tour. Thanks to Simon for making the trip out both educational and fun, and to guide Ellie, who was knowledgeable and enthusiastic on site. The Green Dragon Inn was a highlight, complimentary drink included. Definitely recommend, five stars.
“Fabulous Hobbiton day tour, don't pass this by.”
Simon was an excellent guide getting us to and from the site, and the tour itself was fabulous and thoroughly enjoyable. Great weather made the day even better. Highly recommend this tour to any age group, especially with Cheeky Kiwi.
“Perfect choice for daily trip”
A perfect tour for my father and me — the pickup spots were easy to find, and a friendly guide plus professional driver made everything simple. You'll have a wonderful day at Hobbiton even if you're not a Lord of the Rings fan.
“Hobbiton trip”
A great day trip from Auckland — as a big Lord of the Rings fan I found it amazing, and the Cheeky Kiwi team made everything run smoothly.
“Made it 100x Better”
You get the same core Hobbiton tour whichever company you go with, but our driver-guide Matt was so knowledgeable and tuned in to our interests that this day with Cheeky Kiwi ended up being the highlight of the whole trip. Makes us want to go back to New Zealand just to hear more from him.
“Go back to middle earth & enjoy , not only for kids - I’m…”
The highlight of our New Zealand trip — I was reliving Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit the whole time. Our guide Nick was extremely well informed on both the books and films. An excellent tour.
“An essential trip - and a wonderful way to get there.”
Guide Grant filled the long drive from Auckland with a genuinely rich narrative on the region's history and culture. There are pricier operators offering transport to Matamata, but this was a thoroughly pleasant way to do it. The site itself is a must-see, with the permanent movie sets built to match the original trilogy, including a walk-through hobbit home decked out by the films' original designers. Great value and a lovely day out whatever the weather.
“A magical tour to middle earth with Cheeky”
Guide Matt was relaxed and informative, and pickups were smooth and on time. It's a long ride, but we absolutely loved the tour to Hobbiton.
“Amazing Matt”
Hobbiton was amazing, and our driver Matt made it extra special with an ice cream stop, helpful departure reminders and good food recommendations along the way.
“Great Tour, Amazing Staff — Should not Miss when in Auckland”
Cheeky Kiwi did a great job — we felt safe throughout, with a shoutout to our bus captain Michael who was friendly and fun. The whole trip ran smoothly, everyone was friendly, and the update and reminder messages beforehand were a nice touch. Thank you for a wonderful tour.
“Great day trip and unique experience.”
Grant was a great guide, sharing plenty about New Zealand and Auckland on the drive to and from Hobbiton — charismatic and engaging, but also happy to let quieter moments breathe, which I appreciated. The Hobbiton tour itself was a lot of fun, with a knowledgeable guide. Even having never seen the movies, I learned plenty and was glad I did the tour.
“A Magical Experience in Middle-earth! 🌿”
The small group size made the experience feel more personal. Everything was well organised and genuinely magical, from the lush green landscapes to standing in front of Bag End — it really felt like stepping into the film. Our guide was professional, knowledgeable and clearly passionate, which made the tour even more engaging. Whether you're a fan of the films or just after a peaceful, unique day out, this is a must-do. Highly recommended.
“Fantastic”
An excellent, highly recommended tour — our guide was amazing and friendly, and it was well worth the money and time.
“Great trip to hobbiton movie set”
Grant was a wise, friendly and helpful guide who took a genuine interest in where everyone was from and remembered all our names.
“Beautiful day in a beautiful place”
A fantastic day, with perfect autumn weather. Our guide Grant was very knowledgeable, funny and approachable (I'm told Enrique is great too). If you're in Auckland, a trip to Hobbiton is a given, and I was genuinely thrilled we picked Cheeky Kiwi — a fantastic job all round.
“Hobbiton day out”
A great day — the small group size was a real plus, and driver Simon was fantastic, friendly and informative, making an effort to get to know everyone. Would definitely book with them again.
“WONDERFUL SURPRISE ... NOT CHEESY!!!”
A genuinely wonderful surprise — I expected it to feel a bit cheesy, but it was thoroughly enjoyable even though I'd never seen the films or read the books. First class, and a must when visiting New Zealand. Our guide Sebastian was one of the best I've had anywhere, and I've travelled a lot. Highly recommended.
“Hobbit Village Visit in May”
Because there were few other visitors, I was able to take my time going around the village, asking questions and taking photos. My English wasn't quite good enough to keep up with all of the guide's detailed explanations, but I still had a great visit.
“Great to be in hobbiton and to learn all the ins and outs of…”
A great day out — I'm even watching the films now as a result. Our driver Cam was a top bloke and the on-site tour guide was excellent too. Had a ball all round.
“Just like the movie!”
The guide and driver, Dave, was fantastic and full of knowledge, though the reviewer felt the quiet group could have engaged with him more. It was a long drive but a beautiful day, and both the scenery en route and Hobbiton itself left a lasting impression.
“Hobbiton movie set tour is very well-organised. Dave is…”
Guide Dave was knowledgeable and caring, and the venue itself is a must for visitors. The reviewer plans to book with this company again on a future trip.
“Brilliant day out to Hobbiton and highly recommended 👍.”
A brilliant day out that this reviewer highly recommends to everyone. Guide David was first class throughout, and the pace around the film set was well judged. The beer at the Green Dragon Inn was a nice touch too.
“Bucklet List Experience”
A fantastic tour and one of the highlights of a month-long holiday. Guides Simon and James were friendly and well informed, and the reviewer felt it was well worth the drive.
“Pleasant immersion in the Shire…”
A well-organised, stress-free tour with excellent timing. Guide Grant shared plenty of useful information along the way, and Hobbiton itself was lovely, especially visiting in the off-peak season with good weather. The reviewer appreciated the small-group format.
“Fun, Informative Tour with a Great Guide”
Guide Aled was fun and engaging, sharing plenty of interesting insights about New Zealand that added to the experience. The reviewer had a great time visiting the Shire in perfect weather, and notes the return time isn't guaranteed, so travellers with a flight afterward should flag that in advance.
“a wonderful journey”
A beautiful tour with a driver who was very knowledgeable about the region and the film set. The reviewer even bought some honey from him afterward.
“Hobbiton tour!”
A great experience from start to finish, with bus driver Aled proving knowledgeable and good company along the way. Even without being a big Hobbit fan, the reviewer found it amazing to see the set and immerse themselves in the tour.
“Great time at Hobbiton”
The guide gave a detailed account of the location and its movie scenes, and there was plenty of time to take photos. The area itself was well maintained.
“Our guide for the outing, Matt, was hospitable, informative…”
Guide Matt was hospitable, informative and entertaining. The reviewer highlights that the tour includes not just transport and entry to the Hobbiton set but also commentary on local sights like the Matamata horse stud farms, plus local Maori and European history along the route.
“One for the books”
As Lord of the Rings fans, this reviewer found the trip memorable and would happily do it again. Guide Kane was a fan himself and shared plenty of interesting stories, and the visit inside the hobbit house rounded out the experience perfectly.
“Great visit”
A comfortable ride with informative guides and driver. The hobbit tour area was nicely maintained, and seeing inside one of the hobbit houses, with all its detail, was a highlight.
“A day of "extraordinary" hobbit”
A unique and beautiful adventure with a professional experience from hotel pickup right through to the return, including transport, service and guide. Everyone on the team was patient and attentive, even when it rained, and the reviewer gives a special mention to driver Dave for his kindness and good humour throughout an unforgettable day.
“Awesome experience”
Guide Aled was friendly and helpful, making the trip extremely enjoyable, and kept everyone entertained with interesting stories along the way.
“Full day trip out”
A great trip with informative driver Dave, including a rest stop on the two-hour journey from Auckland and plenty of local knowledge shared along the way. The minibus was a bit tight on space, but the roughly three hours spent at Hobbiton allowed plenty of time for the guided tour, lunch and souvenir shopping.
“Amazing!”
A fun time with two guides who were both friendly and knowledgeable. The reviewer appreciated being picked up right from their hotel, and describes Hobbiton itself as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“A Magical Day Out with Cheeky Kiwi – Hobbiton Movie Set Tour…”
Driver-guide Grant gave a warm welcome from pickup in central Auckland, with a modern, comfortable minibus offering water, snacks, USB charging and Wi-Fi, and kept the group engaged with commentary on New Zealand's history and culture through the Waikato countryside. Arriving at Hobbiton felt like stepping into Middle-earth, with an astonishing level of detail; the on-site guide was lovely, sharing behind-the-scenes filming stories and helping with photos, and a highlight was the newly built hobbit house. There was time to explore the gardens and enjoy a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn before a smooth return drive with Grant. The reviewer praises Cheeky Kiwi's small-group approach as personal and well organised, and gives the day five stars.
“The Hobbiton sweet surprise”
The length of the Hobbiton tour felt just right, not too brief, not too long, and it was filled with joyful excitement wandering around the Shire.
“Awesome Day Trip to Hobbiton!”
Guide and driver Simon was punctual and friendly, with a seamless pickup and drop-off in a comfortable, air-conditioned van stocked with water and snacks. The two-hour drive passed quickly thanks to his commentary on the local area and New Zealand, and there was time to browse the gift shop and grab lunch before exploring Hobbiton itself, guided by Kirstin, who was full of film lore and patient with photo-takers. The return drive included a scenic detour and an ice cream stop, rounding out a day the reviewer highly recommends.
“Amazing day”
An amazing experience where reality exceeded expectations, helped along by a great guide. The only suggestion was for the souvenir shop to stock hobbit-feet keychains.
“Fascinating to see and hear about Middle Earth. Want to…”
The reviewer's main suggestion is smaller group sizes, as it was sometimes hard to hear the guide or get clear photos with so many people.
“Do it!”
A great experience: Hobbiton itself was fantastic, and driver Matt was a highlight. The reviewer notes you can't choose your driver, but consider yourself lucky if you get Matt.
“A fun day for Hobbit Fans!!!”
A fun, low-key day trip with a beautiful setting that's perfect for photos, a must for fans of the movies.
“Unforgettable Day at Hobbiton!”
Driver Liam was friendly and thoughtful, with a smooth, comfortable pickup right from the hotel. Despite cloudy weather, the Hobbiton tour itself was still immersive, with an engaging on-site guide full of stories that made it feel like stepping into Middle-earth. The reviewer, a Lord of the Rings fan, found the whole experience stress-free and highly recommends it.
“Day trip to Lord of the Ring Movie Set”
A brilliant, first-class experience thanks to guide Aled, whose knowledge and delivery were exceptional. The reviewer highly recommends the tour and hopes future visitors get Aled too.
“Beautiful experience.”
An amazing, well-organised tour with a comfortable, punctual ride. The driver and guide were great, full of stories, history and recommendations, and happy to answer every question; the reviewer says they'd book with this operator again.
“Habbiton looks amazing”
Driver Grant was accommodating, approachable and good fun, offering excellent service and great conversation with plenty of humour.
“Excellent and Magic Tour, very good food and experience overall.”
An excellent, magical tour that the reviewer had been waiting years to experience. Guide Hanos was attentive, enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and they appreciated that the tour didn't start too early yet still felt thorough, getting back at a reasonable time.
“Great trip to the shire!”
Guide Grant was fantastic, taking extra care of the reviewer who was travelling with a crutch due to injury, and looked after the whole group well with a great music playlist on board.
“Great experience, I would recommend to anyone:)”
A brilliant day out: Hobbiton comes highly recommended, and the Cheeky Kiwi tour itself was straightforward and enjoyable. Driver Grant shared plenty of interesting stories about New Zealand on the slightly longer drive to Hobbiton.
“Delightful from start to finish.”
A superb trip: driver Simon was knowledgeable, friendly and welcoming from the pickup, and Hobbiton itself was delightful once they arrived.
“Book This Fabulous Tour!!”
A detailed, glowing review of the 10am Cheeky Kiwi departure: driver-guide Aled was friendly and knowledgeable about New Zealand history, with a comfortable small bus, a coffee stop en route, and time for an early lunch at the Shire Depot before boarding the charter bus to Hobbiton. On-site guide Finn led an enjoyable 2.5-hour tour of the beautifully maintained set, including a memorable look inside one of the hobbit holes. The reviewer calls the whole operation smooth and well run, and recommends requesting Aled as driver, complete with an ice cream stop on the way back.
“i had a fantastic day”
Having used Cheeky Kiwi about a year earlier with a guest and had a great time, the reviewer specifically hoped to get guide Grant again for his knowledgeable, story-filled commentary on New Zealand.
“Second breakfast guided tour experience”
The reviewer went for the second breakfast experience combined with the guided tour, and found it fantastic. Guide Stevie was knowledgeable and clearly passionate about her work, and the breakfast itself was delightful with plenty of food on offer.
“Film decor worthy of beautiful children's books”
The bus was punctual and the two-and-a-half-hour trip featured beautiful scenery and interesting commentary. The visit to Hobbiton was well organised and the setting enchanting, making for a very nice excursion even without deep Lord of the Rings knowledge.
“HOBBITON!!!”
A fantastic time, with Hobbiton exceeding expectations, especially getting to go inside one of the hobbit houses. Driver Grant was a highlight, always cheerful and full of interesting information about New Zealand.
“Shire visit”
An excellent tour with a great, informative driver. The Shire visit itself was great, and the reviewer highly recommends both the tour and the operator.
“Four mean as tours with Cheeky Kiwi Travel”
During a six-week stay in New Zealand, the reviewer did several day tours with Cheeky Kiwi, starting with the Hobbiton trip just days after arriving, guided by Cam. They describe it as the perfect start to their journey, praising the small groups, locations and professionalism, and recommend Cheeky Kiwi Travel wholeheartedly.
“Come and Experience the best of New Zealand”
Loved every minute: the guide was an excellent ambassador for New Zealand, friendly and articulate, sharing plenty of history about the local areas on the drive to and from Matamata.
“Trip to Hobbiton”
A great trip: the reviewer loved the site itself, with an enthusiastic guide full of facts about the filming and set. Driver Michael was informative on the bus ride, making the journeys enjoyable too.
“Had a great time with Grant!”
An amazing time with guide Grant, who went out of his way to make sure everyone had a good time. The small group size meant the reviewer got to know fellow travellers, and they'd recommend Cheeky Kiwi for the Hobbiton adventure.
“Very comfortable and relax driving”
The driver was safe and comfortable enough that the reviewer napped along the way, and gave clear, informative commentary throughout.
“Captivating!”
The best tour of the trip, in the reviewer's view: the film set was beautifully preserved and the guide knowledgeable, with the walk through a hobbit house feeling surreal. The included buffet lunch was also good, and they recommend making time for this tour if you're anywhere nearby.
“Wonderful trip to Hobbiton”
Guide Grant was amazing, sharing helpful tips along the way and even assisting with preparation for the Halfling Marathon before dropping the reviewer near their hotel.
“Worth the time.”
A very pleasant experience with great guides both on the bus and at Hobbiton. The reviewer was impressed by the site itself, the gardens with live plants and fruit trees, and the exceptional detail inside the walk-through hobbit houses, and praised driver Brendan.
“Hobbiton! What a day!!”
A great day trip from Auckland: the reviewer loved the movie set, and the operator was punctual and full of interesting facts along the way.
“Lovely Day at the Shire”
Guide Brenden was knowledgeable and happy to answer questions about New Zealand, and even offered suggestions for other things to do on the island. Everything ran on time, and pre-trip questions were answered promptly.
“Great escape in fantasy world!”
Guide Simon was personable and accommodating, including for tour mates needing a little extra attention, and the small group size suited the reviewer well. On-site guide Brad was also great, with good backstories and confident leadership around the set, overall a definite recommend.
“2 Thumbs Up!”
Pickup and drop-off were prompt, and driver Simon was friendly, knowledgeable and a pleasure to talk with; the reviewer highly recommends Cheeky Kiwi for any of their tours.
“Hobbiton Film Set Day Tour from Auckland”
A nice bus tour to the Hobbiton film set, with the driver sharing plenty of interesting information about New Zealand along the way. The tour through the set itself was worth seeing, helped by great February weather, and there's a cafe at the entrance with good cake and ice cream. The reviewer's verdict: not cheap, but good value.
“Great time at Hobbiton.”
Fun seeing where the movie magic happened, even though the minibus ride from Auckland CBD was a little rough, made tolerable by driver Grant's informative, humorous commentary and good timekeeping. The highlight was walking inside Bilbo's recreated home, with on-site guide Tiberius a hoot, and the reviewer appreciated rarely running into other groups plus the cold drink at the end of the tour.
“Great time”
Transport was punctual and the driver was great, with an excellent guide at the site itself. The movie set was top-notch and exactly as the reviewer expected.
“Amazing Day Trip”
Picked up in Auckland CBD by driver Aled, who was approachable, friendly and professional, with good information about the surrounding area and New Zealand generally. Hobbiton itself was amazing, and on-site guide Peter was another standout; a highly recommended tour.
“Grant was excellent!”
Guide Grant was informative, funny, helpful and thoroughly engaging, a real highlight of the tour.
“Love Everything About It!!!”
A great tour for Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fans, from seeing the Shire and the hobbit homes to enjoying a beer at the Green Dragon. Guide Tim also gave a solid food recommendation for afterward in Auckland; highly recommended.
“A worthwhile journey”
The site itself was amazing, both for the film set decorations and the surrounding landscape, with a competent driver and on-site guide.
“Exceptional tour 🙂”
A delightful tour to Hobbiton, with a guide who really knows his Lord of the Rings lore, and a Shire set that's genuinely amazing. The reviewer describes it as a dream come true, repeated more than once, and has done several tours with Cheeky Kiwi, praising the professionalism and quality throughout.
“A MUST do excursion when visiting New Zealand”
A 10/10 trip according to this reviewer: driver Simon was friendly, knowledgeable and great company, making the two-hour bus journey fly by. The 2.5-hour Hobbiton film set tour itself was fantastic, with plenty of time for photos, and guide Mike's deep Lord of the Rings knowledge stood out. They also enjoyed the cafe's pies and the drinks at the Green Dragon at the end.
“Loving the Shire”
Guide Grant was friendly and full of information, a great representative of New Zealand. The reviewer says Hobbiton is unmissable — it felt like Frodo, Bilbo, and Gandalf could appear around any corner. A brilliant adventure.
“Idyllic day”
A lovely experience with guide Alfred, who knew the area well and added a few extra stops for ice cream and photos along the way. Hobbiton itself was fun and unlike anywhere else.
“A good tour, but rather expensive.”
Despite never having seen the films or read the books, the reviewer thoroughly enjoyed the tour, though found it on the expensive side. The guide was knowledgeable and entertaining, and the beer was a nice bonus too.
“Hobbiton and Back”
Hobbiton was the highlight of the reviewer's New Zealand trip, with an engaged guide who made sure the day stayed interesting throughout.
“Excellent tour”
The driver shared local history on the drive from Auckland, and the Hobbiton guide was equally knowledgeable about the movie set and the Lord of the Rings/Hobbit films, pointing out plenty of highlights and allowing time for photos. The return trip included an ice cream stop at Pokeno. An excellent, highly recommended day out.
“Hobbinton Adventure”
The Cheeky Kiwi driver/guide was fun and knowledgeable, and the reviewer enjoyed the Hobbiton tour overall. The one downside was that their on-site Hobbiton guide was hard to hear, with an accent that made her difficult to understand.
“Hobbiton = toll”
Guide Dave kept the drive to Hobbiton informative rather than dull, with enough breaks along the way.
“Fantastic experience!”
Guide Dave was incredibly knowledgeable and made the trip that much more enjoyable.
“A great tour made possible by a great tour guide!”
Hobbiton was amazing, and driver/guide Grant made it even better — personable, helpful, knowledgeable, with an evident love for Auckland and New Zealand. One of the trip's highlights.
“Guide/driver, Jeff, was great and tour was awesome!”
Jeff was a fantastic guide with lots of fun and meaningful facts, and the on-site Hobbiton guide was energetic and fun too. A great tour all round.
“travels with Jeffrey”
Driver Jeffrey was friendly, helpful, and informative about New Zealand's history — highly recommended.
“Great day trip to Hobbiton from Auckland!”
A great overall experience, from the transport out of Auckland to the two-and-a-half-hour tour of Hobbiton itself. Whether or not you're a fan of the films, it's a fabulous day out.
“Great adventure”
Matt shared his knowledge of the area on the way to and from Hobbiton. The journey was comfortable and the visit itself felt magical.
“Grant was exceptional”
Driver Grant was exceptional — prompt, courteous, and respectful, and full of information about New Zealand's history and culture along the way.
“Great local tour company!”
Clear communication before the trip and a well-organised tour. Driver Grant shared plenty of interesting information about the area and took great care of the group throughout — highly recommend Cheeky Kiwi.
“Great driver—-Grant”
Driver Grant shared plenty of stories on the drive to and from Hobbiton, and the ride itself was comfortable throughout. Fully recommended.
“Good Times”
Guides Simon and Colin made for a great, knowledgeable day out. The trip was long but rewarding, and the set was full of small details worth photographing to share with family later.
“Memorable Hobbiton Experience”
Driver/guide Jeff was excellent and very knowledgeable about both Hobbiton and Auckland. The weather was perfect, and there was ample time for photos, souvenir shopping, and an ice cream stop that capped off a perfect day.
“Great”
Everything ran smoothly and the vehicle was comfortable, with guide Grant described as phenomenal. A great trip for solo travellers or smaller groups.
“A marvelous day in Hobbiton”
On-time pickup with a friendly guide/driver, Micky, and gorgeous scenery along the way. The on-site Hobbiton experience was well organised and amazing, and the small group made for a friendly day out.
“Incredible trip and company - make solo travellers feel very…”
A great tour with a knowledgeable and welcoming guide, Grant. Having done several tours with Cheeky Kiwi, the reviewer praises the company as professional, punctual, and welcoming — as a solo traveller, they never felt alone.
“Great Experience 5 Stars”
The drivers did an amazing job, making the trip to and from Hobbiton an enjoyable experience — highly recommend booking through Cheeky Kiwi.
“Cheeky Kiwi and Hobbiton was a winning combination!”
Dave was prompt, friendly, and informative, sharing local culture and history in an upbeat, engaging way. The trip to and from the site was comfortable and well timed, and the Hobbiton tour itself was seamless.
“The dream place”
Hobbiton itself is amazing and its story fascinating, with a well-informed, welcoming guide on hand — highly recommended.
“John's Hobbiton joy ride”
An amazing time visiting Hobbiton with driver John, who was both fun and extremely knowledgeable about the tour and the areas passed along the way — good enough that the reviewer would do it again just for more of his trivia.
“Have a great day!”
Very well organised with a friendly, available guide, making for a pleasant, stress-free day out. Recommended.
“A Magical Hobbiton Experience with Cheeky Kiwi Travel!”
An incredible, well-organised experience from start to finish, with a friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate guide who shared plenty about New Zealand along the way. Hobbiton itself was described as absolutely magical — a truly unforgettable day.
“Wow Wow and Wow!”
A long trip from Auckland but well worth it — the reviewer describes it as fabulous and fairy-tale-like, helped along by a good guide. A highlight was getting inside a cottage just like Bilbo and Frodo's from the films, making it a trip they'll never forget.
“Hobbiton Feb 2025”
The guided walk through Hobbiton was excellent and entertaining, lasting about two and a half hours with a stop at the tavern along the way, and free umbrellas provided. The inside of one hobbit dwelling was museum-quality, if brief due to space and group size. Despite large numbers moving through, the site is spacious enough that crowds stay well spread out, and the guide kept everyone moving smoothly.
“Excellent tour excellent day”
Driver Grant was witty, friendly, and easy to get along with, with great local knowledge — right down to knowing where to find the best ice cream. Highly recommend Cheeky Kiwi.
“Great Guide, great experience.”
An excellent guide made the long bus journey pass quickly. Jeoffrey ensured a seamless handover to the Hobbiton on-site guide and was there waiting when the tour finished — helpful, informative, and friendly throughout.
“A wonderful place in fairy tale.”
The scenery is amazing and beautiful, well worth the two-hour drive to get there for the photos alone.
“Fun day at Hobbiton!”
A wonderful time at the Hobbiton movie set, with tour operator Dane pleasant, courteous, and full of interesting facts about New Zealand on the way there. The air-conditioned bus made for a pleasant ride, and there was ample time on-site for photos and videos.
“Best experience!”
A tour that exceeded expectations — well organised, engaging, and full of unique insights, thanks to a knowledgeable and passionate guide who shared plenty about the area's history and culture. Highly recommended for a fun, relaxed day out.
“Incredible tour”
An amazing experience made even better by guide Arani's wit, detailed insights, and thoughtfulness. As a solo traveller, the reviewer felt very well looked after.
“Peak fun experience”
Pickup was from select downtown hotels with a friendly driver/guide. The road trip runs roughly two hours each way, after which you join the on-site tour group for about two more hours at Hobbiton itself — a long day, but one the reviewer loved.
“A must do tour.”
Recommended by their hotel, the reviewer was glad they booked with Cheeky Kiwi. Guide Matt was informative without overdoing it on the two-hour drive, gave concise pointers on arrival, and pointed out the cafe's pies and cakes. Hobbiton is described as fabulous even for non-fans, and the day wrapped up with a stop for New Zealand's popular Tip Top ice cream — heartily recommended, especially with Matt as guide.
“Fantastic visit from pick up to drop off!”
Driver Simon was friendly and cheerful from start to finish, keeping up an engaging, informative chat on the two-hour journey each way and explaining everything needed for the visit. An excellent day that the reviewer says was well worth the extra cost to see the film set.
“Amazing Service”
David was an amazing bus driver and guide who looked after the group well, making for a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
“Hobbiton was well worth it”
Hobbiton itself was amazing and the reviewer loved the tour once there. Cheeky Kiwi's transport was clean, comfortable, and punctual, with a coffee stop on the way there and an ice cream stop on the way back.
“The movie set will speak for itself, its magical, however…”
A detailed, glowing account of a day out with guide Grant, who was engaging from the first pickup and got to know everyone in the group of 16. A road closure meant a longer route to Hobbiton, but there was still plenty of time to spare before the on-site tour, which lived up to expectations. Grant's stories on the long round trip — including local wildlife anecdotes — kept things entertaining, and the reviewer says two minutes wouldn't do the day justice.
“Best tourguide ever”
Guide Grant was an absolute delight — cheerful, full of jokes, and seemingly knew everything worth knowing. A magical day the reviewer says they'll always remember, and would happily repeat with Grant again.
“Highlight of my New Zealand Trip”
An amazing excursion for a fan of the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings films. Guide Grant was knowledgeable about Auckland and shared plenty en route, the on-site cafe's pies and cakes were a highlight, and getting inside a cosy hobbit cottage was the best part. A long trip but well worth it for movie fans.
“Hobbiton Cheeky Kiwi”
Great customer service and friendliness throughout, with driver Don kind and personable — his singing was a highlight, along with an ice cream stop on the way back. Hobbiton was a bucket-list must-see and the tour lived up to it.
“A great re-visit”
A repeat visit for the reviewer, who first came years ago with their grandsons. This time it was great to see the red and green house's authentic furnishings — an impressive set even for those unfamiliar with the films or books. Driver Matt was helpful with New Zealand history, and the on-site guide Dom was equally knowledgeable.
“The place and service of the guide exceeded my expectations”
A better-than-expected experience thanks to guide Don, who helped bring the group together and made everyone feel included.
“A drive to paradise.”
A wonderful trip with the driver sharing plenty of local stories and history along the way. A quick ice cream stop on the return capped off a fantastic day — the reviewer is a big fan of Cheeky Kiwi.
“A Fans Dream!”
An amazing, worthwhile visit — the reviewer notes you can now see inside two hobbit houses, both impressively detailed and magical-looking.
“A++ MUST DO!”
Rated as the best of three tours taken in as many days, thanks to a friendly, professional, and knowledgeable driver/guide, Jeff, and a clean, comfortable bus. The reviewer calls Hobbiton an absolute must-do — enough to make them want to read the books and watch the films afterward.
A great choice if you want to be well looked after while visiting New Zealand - Don was a wonderful host, and Hobbiton exceeded our expectations.
“Experience living like a Hobbit”
Driver Paul was punctual and shared interesting Maori and British history on the two-and-a-half-hour drive, with time for a light lunch before the tour began. On-site guide James shared entertaining behind-the-scenes filming anecdotes, and the highlight was getting to sit inside the Twofoot hobbit hole for ten minutes.
“Small Group Tour”
A lovely day with guide Dave, who shared plenty about Auckland and Maori history plus good recommendations for things to do and eat, including introducing the group to Hokey Pokey ice cream. On-site, Dave knew the best photo spots and shared behind-the-scenes details, making Hobbiton feel magical and whimsical — the reviewer suggests bringing an umbrella if touring in summer.
“Don’t Miss This!”
Called the best field trip ever, with guide Don knowledgeable, friendly, and funny. The Hobbiton tour exceeded expectations, with the set looking just like the films down to the fine details, and good weather made for a perfect day in the Shire.
“Tour of a lifetime!”
A knowledgeable driver/guide made the drive feel quick in both directions, with stops to stretch legs, eat, and use the restroom, plus good restaurant recommendations for Auckland that the reviewer later used. Hobbiton itself was a remarkable, unforgettable experience — seeing in person what they'd only imagined from the books.
“Hobbiton.”
A fantastic time with driver Jeff doing a great job — knowledgeable and friendly. The Shire itself was amazing, and the tour comes highly recommended.
“Worth it!”
The ride is a fair distance from downtown Auckland, but the experience was excellent, with a great guide both during the drive and on-site. Worth it even if you're unfamiliar with the books or films, and there's a good ice cream stop on the way back.
“Great people and smooth connection”
A sweet, well-organised guide made for a smooth connection with the Hobbiton Movie Set tour — recommended again and again.
“Fun day with Arani and Cheeky Kiwis tour”
A well-organised, relaxed, and informative day thoroughly enjoyed thanks to driver Arani, whose passion for the job showed through jokes, fun facts, and Maori history.
“What a magical place, and incredible tour with Cheeky Kiwi…”
A magical, incredible tour with guide Liam managing a full bus of 16 passengers well and sharing fascinating insights along the way. Hobbiton itself is described as unbelievable in its attention to detail and scale — highly recommended, including for families with children.
“Visit to Hobbiton”
A great visit despite the wet weather, with a wonderful, knowledgeable, and friendly guide.
“Hobbiton tour”
The tour of Hobbiton was amazing. It was an early start and a long journey but our driver (John) kept us amused throughout.
“Don't miss this tour!”
A great experience with clean, new transport and a nice, funny driver. The Hobbiton tour itself was rated close to a perfect score, and the reviewer was very glad they went.
“Loved Hobbiton!”
The Hobbiton site itself was great, and the tour was interesting and informative. The reviewer's one suggestion was for the guide to keep up a commentary during the drive to and from the site.
“Good support and smooth transfer”
The transfer to the former Hobbiton film set went smoothly and the on-site support was great, with high praise for both the driver and the tour guide.
“What an experience!”
The Hobbiton movie set itself was extremely enjoyable, but what made the tour stand out was guide Don. On the 1.5-hour drive each way he shared his Maori culture through music, history and language, which was a real bonus.
“Must see for Hobbit lovers!”
A great time was had, with the site itself described as fabulous. The reviewer especially enjoyed the 3/5 scale hobbit houses, which were cozy and perfectly furnished with hobbit-themed details - a perfect experience for Tolkien fans.
“Highlight of our trip”
An outstanding, magical, stunning visit even in wet weather. The reviewer notes the pathways are uneven with some climbing and descending, which a few people in the group found difficult to keep up with.
“Wonderful day out”
A wonderful trip with well-organised pickups from various hotels. After a two-hour drive in a comfortable minibus there was time for a quick lunch before the tour, and Hobbiton offered a photo opportunity around every corner. The guide was informative and fun, and the reviewer highly recommends it.
“Great times in the Shire”
Guide Nikki was wonderful and shared plenty of great information about New Zealand on the journey to and from Hobbiton. There was also plenty of time to get food and drinks and explore before the guided tour began, which the reviewer highly recommends.
“Hobbiton Trip Auckland”
The reviewer chose Cheeky Kiwi for the Hobbiton trip after seeing their high ratings and had a great time. Communication and confirmations were handled well, and driver Dane, in a nearly new 16-passenger Mercedes Sprinter van, was pleasant and pointed out things of interest along the way, with everything running on time.
“Great time visiting the Lord of the Rings movie set.”
Everything was as promised, on time. Hobbiton movie set experience is impressive. Grant is a great tour guide. We enjoyed our time. Thank you!
Highly recommend Cheeky Kiwi - my husband and I toured Hobbiton with John, who kept us entertained with humour and stories the entire way. Would happily give him ten stars if I could. Greetings from Canada!
“A timeless positive journey, there and back again.”
The reviewer, on their third time doing this tour, says it is worth every cent. The Maori driver was professional and educational on the drive from Auckland through the Waikato region to Hobbiton, sharing plenty about the country and its history, and the reviewer calls it far more than an average hop-on hop-off tour and a special experience they'll always treasure.
“Amazing movie set of Lord of the Rings - very creative and…”
An amazingly fun experience - the reviewer didn't realise how much there was to see, and found the tour creative, well run and organised.
“A fabulous day!”
Visiting Hobbiton was everything the reviewer hoped it would be. Driver Brendan entertained the group with information and stories about New Zealand, and they enjoyed the lambs, deer farms and beautiful scenery on the way, loving every minute of the Hobbiton tour itself.
“10/10 Hobbits Agree”
A great time overall - guide Mark did a wonderful job keeping everyone engaged and relaxed, sharing plenty of good stories and trivia while being very accommodating.
“An Amazing Experience”
The reviewer praises the tremendous job done creating an experience Tolkien fans can be proud of, with the culture and detail of the Hobbits evident throughout. They particularly enjoyed the newly added hobbit hole that visitors can actually go inside, and found their guide phenomenal, calling it a once-in-a-lifetime experience they'll always treasure.
“Who's up for an adventure?”
An amazing journey with guide Michael on the drive between Auckland and Matamata, who told plenty of stories about New Zealand along the way. The guide at the Hobbiton Movie Set itself was also great, and the reviewer plans to bring their family next time.
“Absolutely Fantastic!”
An absolutely fantastic trip and one of the highlights of the reviewer's vacation. The ride to Hobbiton was very comfortable and driver Pete was friendly and knowledgeable, with the reviewer definitely recommending both the tour and Cheeky Kiwi Travel.
“Magical Hobbiton”
Hobbiton was a truly magical experience and rates as one of the very best excursions we have ever been on. The additional of the breathtaking Waitamo Cave and glow worms made the 5.30am start and 12 hour day well worth it. Thanks to Grant for his very informative dialogue which helped during the Lind journey. Do not miss this trip
Our Hobbiton day tour guide and driver, Dave, was fantastic - full of local knowledge and commentary that kept the long drive engaging. He was also really helpful with ticketing and timing. A great overall experience.
Grant clearly loves showing people around New Zealand - we had a great day visiting Hobbiton and a few other stops along the way, including Pokeno. Highly recommended.
“Hobbiton is Super Cool”
A really cool tour even for someone in the group who'd never seen the LOTR or Hobbit films. A GPS mishap turned the two-hour drive into nearly four due to traffic, and despite missing lunch and their original tour slot, Cheeky Kiwi rearranged things and the group still had a wonderful time, with the food and drink at the Green Dragon a particular highlight.
“PURE MAGIC!!! GO! GO!! GO!!!”
A magical tour with Maori driver Don, who shared his love for his culture on the drive to see the Shire, and guide Finn kept the group informed and entertained with her knowledge and wit throughout. The visit included the Green Dragon pub, where the reviewer sampled some of its drinks, and Don rounded off the day by singing Maori songs on the return journey and making sure every passenger felt looked after - a tour the reviewer says is for everyone, film fan or not.
“A brilliant day out”
A brilliant day out from the moment the group was collected by driver Don, who shared plenty of information about New Zealand's history and people on the journey to Hobbiton and even sang along the way. The film set itself is described as magical with amazing attention to detail, and going inside a hobbit house was a particular highlight not to be missed.
“Excellent tour, excellent guide!”
Grant was an excellent guide, keeping the group entertained with witty jokes and interesting stories about New Zealand's history and wildlife, with plenty of pauses along the way.
“Grand Day Out!”
A great day out, expertly driven to and from Auckland by Dean, who provided a nice, unobtrusive commentary along the way, and the tour itself was thoroughly enjoyed.
“Fascinating, amazing, simply phenomenal!!!”
Driver Don was phenomenal - kind, entertaining, thoughtful and creative, keeping everyone fed and hydrated with never a boring moment, and even singing beautifully along the way. The Hobbiton Movie Set tour itself added the perfect finishing touch to the day.
“Don is the man… and Hobbiton was great!”
Don was fantastic - charismatic and professional, picking the group up in Auckland with great historical commentary, snacks and cold water along the way. The Shire and Hobbiton itself was top notch with immaculate greenery, and there was just enough time for lunch and a quick look in the gift shop before Don took the group to a nice spot for a treat on the way back.
“Hobbiton Movie Set from Auckland”
A fantastic full-day tour from Auckland to the Hobbiton movie set, with an on-time hotel pickup and plenty of time for lunch, the tour itself and an ice cream stop on the way back. The driver gave lots of local commentary, though the reviewer notes the back row of the van was quite cramped with four adults squeezed in.
“Tour guide was a total pro”
It's about two hours each way from Auckland, filled with pleasant stories and a pit stop along the way. Driver Alessandro was a total pro at storytelling, handling a minor dispute between passengers and giving helpful tips for the best photos, and the reviewer found Hobbiton itself much bigger and sweeter than expected.
“A wonderful and Iconic Experience.”
A great adventure to an iconic location - the host was funny, entertaining and genuinely cared about the group, making it well worth the investment. The reviewer highly recommends it and looks forward to bringing friends next time they're in town.
“Amazing trip to Hobbiton!”
A wonderful Auckland-to-Hobbiton tour with leader Don, who sang some Maori songs and gave a history lesson on New Zealand and the local area during the drive. Hobbiton itself was amazing and there was a special surprise stop on the way back - the reviewer rates it 10/10 and plans to return next year.
“Excellent trip to hobbiton”
An excellent tour - the reviewer was worried about managing an eight-hour day with a baby, but it was smooth, fast and efficient. Guide Grant was friendly and patient throughout, and the tour is highly recommended.
“A perfect day in the Shire”
I took the Hobbiton tour. The meeting location was only a short walk from the pier (8 min). Jose our driver was fantastic. He had waters for everyone did a quick stop for coffee and food after about an hour. We arrived at Hobbiton on time and everything was arranged perfectly. Plenty of time to check out gift shop before and after the tour. Jose our driver also provided lots of info about New Zealand.
It exceeded my geek Hobbiton expectations. The perfect way to spend a shore day.
“Hobbiton— Must do Experience in NZ.”
A brilliant trip from the moment the group met guide Joseph, who kept things well timed, communicated clearly and put everyone at ease. Highly recommended.
“Perfect conclusion to a trip to New Zealand”
The small-group Hobbiton tour with John was incredibly enjoyable and highly recommended, with John keeping a pleasant, family atmosphere throughout thanks to his humour, interesting commentary on the country and its people, and good music choices. The tour of Hobbiton itself was perfectly organised, making for a great and unforgettable way to end the reviewer's New Zealand trip.
“Even better than I was expecting!”
The reviewer felt well looked after by Cheeky Kiwi Travel and host Grant, who was funny and thoughtful, sharing informative stories about New Zealand's ecology and conservation on the way to Hobbiton and back. Hobbiton itself was incredible, even better than expected, and the reviewer calls the tour of the vast site a must-do for anyone visiting the North Island, with views that make it feel like stepping into Middle Earth.
“Hobbiton Fun”
Driver Son was kind and full of information, with a comfortable bus and an ice cream stop along the way. The Shire was fun to explore and guide Danni was informative and enjoyable.
“A Fantastic Experience with Cheeky Kiwi Travel”
An amazing time on the tour to the Hobbiton Movie Set, with the reviewer describing the visit as picturesque and full of charm and atmosphere. Guide Grant was exceptional - knowledgeable and personable with fascinating insights not just about Hobbiton but Auckland and the surrounding area - and the well-organised tour left plenty of time to explore and take photos, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
“Seamless experience to Hobbington and “back again””
Don was a great driver who took extra care to keep the group comfortable and entertained, and the Hobbiton tour itself is run by a separate on-site guide, which the reviewer says works wonderfully. For anyone without a car or who doesn't want to make the long drive themselves, Cheeky Kiwi is a great way to get to and from Auckland, going above and beyond to make it a seamless experience.
“Hobbit experience in a special class.”
A lovely experience with plenty of memorable details from the movies, including two small hobbit houses visitors can go inside built at almost full size. The site is in a valley about two hours' drive south of Auckland, and a good driver/guide rounded off the day nicely.
“Simon is the best!”
Driver Simon was amazing, warm and welcoming, personally greeting and saying goodbye to every passenger in the van, even getting out each time someone was picked up or dropped off.
“Great experience”
We went on the hobbiton set tour, was a great day. Grant our driver was full of knowledge and a great driver, highly recommended
“Magical experience!”
Visiting Hobbiton is a truly magical and unforgettable experience. I felt like a little girl in a fairy tale!The tour was well organised with interesting commentary from the Tour Guide. I'm very pleased with it! Thank you:)
“Review for Hobbiton visit”
Grant from Cheeky Kiwi was a splendid guide, giving a warm welcome to Auckland and helping the group understand local customs and culture through stories and local legends along the way - amazing service overall.
“Great trip to Hobbiton!”
It's a long drive out to Hobbiton, but well worth it, and driver/guide Alessandro was very entertaining and enthusiastic throughout.
“Amazing, fun, informative, safe!”
An incredible experience with guide Grant, who was super knowledgeable and shared fun facts throughout the smooth, safe ride, including a stop for ice cream on the way home. The reviewer calls Hobbiton a must-do for anyone visiting Auckland and highly recommends the tour company.
“Incredible experience”
An incredible experience the reviewer would definitely recommend to anyone travelling around Auckland. The bus was new and clean, and the driver was friendly with good local knowledge.
“NZ History, comfort and ice cream”
Grant was extremely knowledgeable about New Zealand's history and the Hobbiton Movie Set tour, and very funny, making the day thoroughly enjoyable. The Hokey Pokey ice cream at the final stop was a highlight, and the reviewer highly recommends both Grant and Cheeky Kiwi Travel.
“Stress-free Visit to Hobbiton from Auckland”
The reviewer and their husband wanted to visit Hobbiton but were nervous about driving such a long distance on the opposite side of the road, so they were glad to find this tour with Cheeky Kiwi Travel. For only a little more than the ticket price, they got a stress-free experience with experienced driver Grant, who picked them up at their chosen location, shared stories and historical information along the way, and gave helpful tips ahead of transferring onto the Hobbiton tour buses.
“Smooth and social experience for a solo traveler”
A convenient option for a solo traveller without a car, with clear pickup instructions and an on-time departure. Guide Dean kept the enthusiasm going even when much of the group was quieter, making for a smooth ride and a chance to make new friends.
“Great Day Trip”
A great day out with driver Simon, who was excellent, prompt, friendly, informative and safe. The reviewer loved Hobbiton and enjoyed a stop for local ice cream on the way back, and would definitely recommend the tour, Cheeky Kiwi and Simon.
“Exiting, interesting”
The guide on the shuttle to and from Hobbiton was knowledgeable and the stops along the way were a nice touch. The Hobbiton tour itself was superb, with a lovely guide and plenty to see.
“Hobbiton by Cheeky Kiwi”
A lifelong Tolkien fan describes the Hobbiton movie set as a must-see, rebuilt and left intact after filming for the Hobbit trilogy, with two new hobbit holes added in early 2024 that visitors can actually walk through. They chose Cheeky Kiwi directly based on its TripAdvisor reviews, and driver/guide Doug was funny, gracious and informative throughout, going out of his way to pick up a passenger who'd missed the meeting point and navigating around a protest that was blocking the road to still get the group to their booked tour on time.
“Great trip to Hobbiton!!”
Dave made for a really great day on the trip, sharing plenty of knowledge and staying very engaged with the group. The reviewer highly recommends both the tour and Dave as a guide.
“All round 10/10”
A great time with tour driver Grant, who was a real star - keeping the group entertained with fun facts and making sure everyone stayed hydrated and fed on the trip to and from Hobbiton.
“Amazing 🤩”
Great guides, nice service and an amazing tour overall. Grant did a great job and handed out snacks on the van, and there was more than enough time to do everything the reviewer wanted.
“Fantastic Day Tour”
An excellent tour from start to finish, extremely well organised and thoroughly enjoyable - highly recommended for anyone visiting Auckland.
“A Memorable Trip to Hobbiton”
The reviewer was lucky to have Cameron as their guide, who was knowledgeable, entertaining and especially good at keeping a group of ten organised and on time. The water and snacks on board were appreciated, and though it was a long day it was well worth it - the reviewer highly recommends booking with Cheeky Kiwi and Cameron.
“Fun trip to the Shire.”
David was a great driver, host, guide and teacher all in one, sharing plenty about New Zealand's Maori culture, history and politics and making the long drive feel easy. A very enthusiastic recommendation from the reviewer.
“Unforgettable Journey”
Dean was the best - the trip with him felt very short thanks to his humour, which made the journey even more memorable despite the reviewer being jet-lagged and sleepy.
“Simply the best”
The movie set was magical and the tour guide was knowledgeable, friendly and occasionally amusing. Driver Cameron was exceptional, going above and beyond to make the day a first-rate, great-value experience - the reviewer thoroughly recommends Cheeky Kiwi.
“I’m off on an adventure!”
Hobbiton was so much fun, and the reviewer really enjoyed touring with Grant and the Cheeky Kiwi team. Booking and pickup were both easy to arrange.
“Introverted LOTR Fan”
Awesome guides, a relaxed pace and perfect weather made for a great day, and the reviewer - travelling alone - never felt awkward. Exploring the hobbit holes was a lot of fun, and there was a delicious treat at the end.
“Hobbiton Tour with Cheeky Kiwi driver Don”
Don was warm, welcoming and kind, singing gentle songs and sharing lessons on history and culture along the way. He skilfully used side roads to avoid unusually heavy traffic in both directions, with a comfort stop on the way out and a stop at a well-known ice cream shop on the way back, and kept an eye on the group so everyone could easily find the van after the tour - a good choice for a low-key experience.
“A walk amongst hobbit holes”
A wonderful time was had walking around Hobbiton, described as a magical place for any LOTR fan. Guide Grant was friendly and knowledgeable and clearly loves what he does, and the reviewer enjoyed a cider on site, suggesting a hobbit-style meal afterwards would be the only improvement.
“Gant Review ;)”
Driver Gant was absolutely amazing, picking the group up from their hotel and stopping for ice cream on the way back while sharing stories about Auckland's history. He was funny, welcoming and well organised, making the day extra enjoyable and earning a strong recommendation.
“Superduper!”
Don was an amazing, super fun driver - the best the reviewer has had. Hobbiton itself was pretty cool too, recommended even for those who haven't seen the films, but the highlight of the day was Don.
“Went on an adventure”
An awesome trip with a friendly guide who took care of everything. The reviewer found the Hobbiton set amazing to see, regardless of familiarity with the books or films.
“Dream land”
Visiting Hobbiton was the highlight of the reviewer's first trip to New Zealand. As a Lord of the Rings fan, they were struck by how much more impressive the set feels in person than on screen, especially being able to walk through and enter Bilbo's fully furnished hobbit hole, complete with kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. It felt like a dream come true.
“Great Experience at Hobbiton with Cheeky Kiwi”
A perfectly organised and welcoming day from start to finish, thanks largely to guide Grant, who handled every detail so the group had nothing to worry about. Walking among the hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn and other iconic spots brought the films to life.
“Training”
Guide and driver Dean was great, and the reviewer picked up some insight into how things work at Cheeky Kiwi while enjoying a good day out at Hobbiton.
“Incredible views”
An excellent trip with comfortable seating and driver Simon, who was informative and drove well. The group also stopped for ice cream along the way.
“Something That I Will Remember Forever”
The reviewer's short review is a Lord of the Rings quote about small acts of kindness holding back darkness, offered as a reflection on the experience rather than a detailed account.
“Great tour to Hobbiton!”
A fun, smooth tour to Hobbiton from pickup to drop-off. Guide Simon was knowledgeable and a great driver, earning a strong recommendation.
“Absolutely worth it!”
Absolutely worth it!! We did the day trip from Auckland to Hobbiton. It’s about a two hour drive one way. John, our guide, was great and told us anecdotal stories about Hobbiton + history of NZ. Once we arrived in Hobbiton, we ate lunch (the Shire’s Rest has great gluten free and dairy free options!) and then hopped on the Hobbiton Movie Tour bus. The walking tour was about 1.5 hours and it was phenomenal.
On the way back, we stopped in Pokeno for some ice cream. We were gone from about 9:40a till 6:15p. Absolutely great!! Would highly recommend. The van was clean and very comfortable.
“Great day at Hobbiton with Cheeky Kiwi.”
Cheeky Kiwi were fantastic and easy to deal with even on a tight cruise-ship schedule into Auckland. Driver Grant was helpful and personable, and the Hobbiton experience itself was well organised, insightful and full of impressive attention to detail — a tour the reviewer highly recommends.
“Exceeded my expectations”
A great day with a great group — the guide kept the drive entertaining with interesting stories and historical details, earning a recommendation.
“Truly fun day!”
A wonderful, fun experience with beautiful scenery on the drive from Auckland to the Hobbiton Movie Set. The reviewer was glad they booked with Cheeky Kiwi.
“Don of Cheeky Kiwi Travel great tour guide”
Guide Don from Cheeky Kiwi was amazing — a knowledgeable, charismatic driver and singer who kept everyone informed and made the tour extra special. He stopped for ice cream on the way back and went out of his way to look after honeymooners, a birthday guest and some senior travellers, making for a memorable day thanks to some genuinely caring staff.
“Excellent service”
The best experience ever, largely thanks to guide Grant. The reviewer highly recommends Cheeky Kiwi and says the Hobbiton experience is a must-try.
“Easy, well organized trip to magical Hobbiton”
A smooth, well-run trip to Hobbiton with a small-bus pickup and driver Dean, who was friendly, punctual and played 80s-90s music along the drive. After arriving you can grab lunch before boarding a second bus to the set itself for the guided tour and a drink; entering a hobbit hole to see the small details like bottle labels and signage was a highlight for these self-confessed fans. The reviewer skipped the glow-worm add-on and extra meals as unnecessary, enjoyed near-perfect spring weather, and felt it was well worth the (not cheap) price for a stress-free day, though they noted the guide could have handled an inappropriate comment from another guest better.
“Super tour with a super guide”
Hobbiton itself is wonderful even for non-fans, and the tour was well organised with punctual pickup and some unplanned stops along the way. Guide Alfredo made the day especially enjoyable.
“Wonderful Tour to Hobbiton with Cheeky Michael”
An amazing tour with guide 'Cheeky Michael', who took great care of the group. The reviewer calls Hobbiton a must-see experience for anyone near Auckland.
“Totally Awesome!”
The whole family enjoyed the trip — the guides were great and the countryside around Hobbiton was beautiful.
“Excellent tour guide”
A wonderful solo-travel experience; the reviewer recommends touring with Cheeky Kiwi as the guide made the day enjoyable with engaging explanations and stories along the way.
“Our Fellowship”
An unforgettable, magical day at Hobbiton, with bus driver Don adding a-cappella singing, local information, ice cream stops and warm personal touches for the group, including their daughter, who loved exploring a hobbit house. The group also enjoyed a meat pie and beer by the fire while taking in stunning countryside views with sheep and lambs — an epic day overall.
“Hobbbiton Movie Set & Cheeky Kiwi Travel”
Driver Cam was knowledgeable, professional and friendly from pickup to drop-off, and Cheeky Kiwi kept communication about pickup times clear throughout. The Hobbiton tour itself was well worth the visit, a lovely day out even without having seen the films.
“Must-Do in northern NZL”
A great guide in beautiful landscape — the film set is authentic, highly detailed and larger than expected, making the tour a worthwhile must-do.
“Fabulous trip”
Driver Matt was amazing and very informative, and the tour exceeded expectations, with the quality of the woodwork on the set standing out.
“Must for a LOTR fan”
A lovely time with guide Simon, who was funny, chatty and knowledgeable, and pickup/drop-off ran right on schedule. The tour was made even better by the now-open hobbit house you can walk through.
“Just a magical visit to middle earth.”
Driver was great with lots of info. Hobbiton is a must see if you enjoy Lord of the Rings. Drive is a bit long from Auckland. Worth the time to see.
“Solo Traveler/LOTR Fan”
A long day (roughly 9:40am pickup to 6:15pm drop-off) that ran longer than expected but was worth it. Guide Malcolm shared plenty of general New Zealand facts, not just Lord of the Rings trivia. The reviewer suggests heading straight to the cafe on arrival since hot food takes a while to prepare, and enjoyed the free ale at the end of the tour; overall a great day trip, though they'd pack snacks, water, and travel light since you carry your things through the walking tour.
Had an absolutely brilliant experience with our guide Joseph on the Hobbiton tour - informative, caring and hilarious. Best of luck to him, and greetings from Dubai!
“A must have experience for fans!”
An amazing experience with guide Simon, who kept things fun, and the small-group format meant more personal attention; he even dropped the group at their hotel rather than the original pickup point. Despite rain, the tour itself felt like a dream come true thanks to an upbeat, fact-filled guide, and the reviewer would happily book with Cheeky Kiwi again.
A great tour to the Hobbiton Movie Set with Grant, who took great care of us all day and was extremely kind. Highly recommend Cheeky Kiwi Travel.
“Cheeky Kiwi to Hobbiton and back”
A fab day with Cheeky Kiwi's Grant, who made sure the small group of five got to know each other and kept the drive entertaining with local knowledge and dad jokes. Highly recommended, ideally with Grant again.
“DON the best driver and tour guide in Auckland !!!!”
Guide Don was fantastic — clearly loves the job, shared plenty about Auckland, sang along the way, and even gave the group ice cream to celebrate a honeymoon. A perfect tour with a guide the reviewer calls the kindest they've met.
“DON IS THE BEST”
Guide Don was really nice to everyone and made the day a perfect experience, the best guide the reviewer has had.
“Beautiful New Zealand Experience”
One of the best tours the reviewer has been on. Hobbiton was spectacular, but guide Don stood out for teaching the group history, singing in Māori, and ensuring everyone's needs were met — an unforgettable day that has them wanting to book more Cheeky Kiwi tours.
“Well worth the money!”
Driver Simon was friendly and fun, the bus was comfortable and clean, and the tour ran smoothly in good weather. Guide Stevie was knowledgeable and accommodating, giving extra time to a family member using a walking stick. Recommended even for non-fans, thanks to the views, the set and the tasty cider on offer.
“The Rolling Greens of Hobbiton”
Just finished the Hobbiton tour and I’m so glad I did it! Cheeky kiwi was class the whole time, offering good recommendations for places to eat or specific things to enjoy along the way. Would definitely recommend them as a tour company!
“Amazing Hobbits Tour Experience”
An amazing tour — the movie set is a must for serious Lord of the Rings fans, the guide was informative, and there was plenty of time for photos. The small group size made the day easier to enjoy.
“Great Tour!”
Guide Grant was excellent, and the reviewer thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful Hobbiton movie set, recommending it whether or not you've seen the films.
“Excellent small group tour that was very informative and…”
A great small-group tour with a punctual, communicative guide who gave clear commentary and information throughout. Recommended even for those who aren't Lord of the Rings fans, thanks to stunning scenery.
“Pricey but loved every moment”
Wandering the Lord of the Rings movie set was fantastic, with a highlight being the chance to walk through a cosy, warren-like hobbit home in perfect weather. The main downside was the steep price, though the driver was knowledgeable and friendly.
“Unforgettable experience at Hobbiton Movie Set”
A fabulous, unforgettable experience — the set is huge and beautiful, and good weather made for a great walk around the grounds and hobbit houses, with the guide capturing excellent photos. The roughly four-hour round trip was well worth it, and the reviewer recommends this Cheeky Kiwi tour to anyone visiting New Zealand.
“Fun tour and great experience”
A very cool tour — guide Grant made it really enjoyable, earning a strong recommendation for anyone passing through Auckland.
“Absolutely magical”
An absolutely magical experience from start to finish, with guides Grant and Emma both welcoming and excellent.
“The overall hobbiton tour was really worth it and great…”
Guide Kirstine at Hobbiton was knowledgeable about the films and kept the tour engaging and friendly, while driver Don made the roughly two-hour journey entertaining with singing and dedications — both praised as excellent by the reviewer.
“Went in January 2024, adored this experience.”
A trip the reviewer loved despite never having seen Lord of the Rings — well planned with a kind team, and a nice way to see more of New Zealand's countryside. A stop for Tip Top ice cream was a tasty bonus.
“Enchanted Journey with an Exceptional Guide”
Guide Don made the day truly unforgettable with strong driving, engaging storytelling and singing, plus a personal touch throughout. The Hobbiton visit felt like a dream, with a stop for ice cream adding a nice touch, and Don's stories brought the places visited to life.
“Great tour to Hobbiton which and having Alessandro as our…”
A trip to Hobbiton the reviewer had wanted to do for years, made enjoyable and informative by guide Alessandro, who was kind and accommodating. Poor weather didn't stop it from being a fun day.
“Hobbiton Day Trip”
Our tour guide Michael was awesome. He played a good selection of music and was a very positive and professional driver. (He even provided a few snacks!!) Our trip was all the better for having him!
“Excellent day with Don from Cheeky Kiwi! 🥝”
A wonderful experience with Cheeky Kiwi — when the original tour didn't have enough sign-ups, the company offered easy alternatives and options. Guide Don was friendly, knowledgeable and made the day stress-free, with smooth pickup and drop-off, earning a strong recommendation.
“Great Cheeky Kiwi Hobbiton Day Tour”
Driver Joseph did a great job looking after the group and kept the bus journey entertaining. The Hobbiton Movie Set tour lived up to its reputation, described as interesting and engaging throughout.
“Nice guides”
The trip went well overall, though the return was delayed after the car keys went missing — the guides were understanding about it. The reviewer's one disappointment was that the guided walk at Hobbiton wasn't in as small a group as expected, even though the bus ride there was.
“It's not a movie set. It's a functioning village where…”
Better than the reviewer could have imagined, with the guide sharing plenty of history and some classic Kiwi music on the drive.
“A great day”
Driver Grant was friendly, knowledgeable and a very safe driver who looked after everyone on the bus.
“Greg the amazing kiwi”
A great trip overall, living up to the films. The standout was guide Greg, whose enthusiasm and kindness made the day, with the reviewer saying visitors are lucky if they get him.
“Relived the movie!”
This tour suited the reviewer well given a late-night flight arrival, since it starts at 10am. It provides transport to the movie set on a comfortable bus with basics like water included; guide John was helpful, going out of his way to help adjust a meeting point for a following day's tour, and the reviewer notes the Hobbiton experience itself is the same regardless of which operator you booked with.
“Great time connecting with my inner hobbit”
Guide Grant was superb — kind, funny and knowledgeable, and skilled at bringing a group of strangers together. The Hobbiton tour itself felt magical even on a rainy day. The reviewer's original booking had included Rotorua, but when that leg didn't have enough numbers in the off-season, Cheeky Kiwi proactively offered options and refunded the difference for a Hobbiton-only tour, with communication and support described as above and beyond.
“Highly recommended experience”
Guides Don from Cheeky Kiwi and Anna from the Hobbiton Crew were both excellent, making for a memorable day full of good storytelling.
“Don was brilliant and The Shire magical.”
A long-held dream finally realised — guide Don was brilliant, learning everyone's names right away and keeping the journey entertaining with singing and genuine care for the group. Hobbiton itself felt pure magic, and the reviewer says the tour with Don was worth every penny.
“Dream place with easy and smooth ride from Auckland.”
A must-do if you're in the area, and well worth booking for the included round trip from Auckland. The guide was friendly and attentive to the group, the drive offered good views through the van's large windows, and some general information about Auckland was shared along the way — though wifi was only available at the set, not during the drive. Overall a very positive experience with Cheeky Kiwi.
“An awesome day trip - one to remember!”
A brilliant day thanks to driver Don, who went above and beyond and shared insights into Māori culture along with some singing. At Hobbiton, guide Dion was enthusiastic and knowledgeable, adding to the experience.
“The Hobbits love the tip top ice cream”
Guide Don kept the group entertained with singing and history, remembered everyone's names, and even accommodated a special food request for the reviewer's daughter; the Tip Top ice cream stop was also a hit. At Hobbiton, guide Dion was also good, and the reviewer loved the lush green countryside and sheep-dotted hills along the way.
“Excelent plan !”
The pickup driver was excellent, sharing interesting facts along the way and allowing time to eat before arriving at Hobbiton. Logistics were smooth, with enough time on-site for photos and lunch without feeling rushed — a punctual and recommended tour.
“-”
An awesome experience — guide Don was the best, sharing plenty of history about the place and being consistently helpful and kind.
“The Perfect Trip!!!”
One of the most incredible trips the reviewer has taken, perfect from start to finish. Guide Don made the day one to remember, ensuring smooth, safe transport to and from Hobbiton and keeping the drive informative and fun, while the on-site tour itself was equally well planned and coordinated — a must-do while in Auckland.
“A lovely trip”
A beautiful site with wonderful service. Guide Don was warm, considerate and funny, making it an unforgettable day.
“Fun Trip To Hobbiton”
Guide Grant was friendly and did a great job, with bathroom breaks on the drive from Auckland and an ice cream stop along the way. The van was comfortable, and Hobbiton itself offered great photo opportunities plus interesting facts about the film set and its history.
“My precious… tour”
A memorable trip to Hobbiton with a great tour guide, plenty of photo stops, trivia, singing and an ice cream treat along the way. Highly recommended.
“The Hobbit Set”
An amazing tour with guide/driver Don, who shared plenty of New Zealand history, gave clear instructions and pointed out the scenery on the way to Hobbiton. He kept things lively with jokes and clearly loves his job.
“GOOD TRIP AND WORTH OF TOUR”
Don was a great, kind and helpful tour guide who made this a trip to remember.
“Great tour and great guide!”
Guide Don was extremely helpful — when the reviewer mistakenly showed up on the wrong day, he called the tour company and got the booking changed on the spot.
“Perfectly Organized Day Trip from Auckland”
The perfect way to get to Hobbiton — hotel pickup in Auckland, an enjoyable two-hour drive with great New Zealand commentary and scenery, and plenty of time to eat at the on-site cafe before touring the set. The guide was excellent, the Green Dragon drink stop a highlight, and the relaxing drive back included time at the gift shop and an ice cream stop. Highly recommended.
“Grant is GRANT”
Guide Grant drove the group safely to Hobbiton with great care and plenty of knowledgeable anecdotes, teaching everyone a lot about New Zealand along the way. A real asset to Cheeky Kiwi.
“Great day at the Shire”
A knowledgeable guide led a great tour group. It's a long day, but well worth it, especially for Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fans.
“Excellent time and experience at Hobbiton”
An absolutely fantastic visit to Hobbiton, worth every dollar — the setting is beautifully maintained. Guide Emma was knowledgeable and made everyone feel truly welcomed, like stepping into the Shire itself.
“Personalized, informative, exciting trip”
Guide Don gave a wonderful, personalised experience, learning everyone's names in a 15-person group, which made the drive feel much shorter. A great trip that's highly recommended.
“Go with Cheeky Kiwi, it's a great tour company”
An amazing day with a lovely small group and an excellent driver, Mike, who went above and beyond — right down to sharing Pineapple Lumps. Couldn't fault the tour company.
“Great way to get out of Auckland for a day!”
An excellent drive to and from Hobbiton with guide Grant, who was lovely and full of good stories and advice. The bus was a bit cramped, but the personable guide, small group size, water and snacks, and hotel-to-hotel transfers more than made up for it.
“Put this on your to do list!!”
An amazing day with spectacular views and plenty of photo opportunities. Guide Miriam was knowledgeable and passionate, and the group got to walk through the newly opened full-sized hobbit hole. Overall an excellent experience.
“We went on an adventure”
Grant did an awesome job getting the group to and from Hobbiton on time, with great conversation along the way and an ice cream stop afterwards.
“The best way to travel and see Hobbiton”
Well worth booking transport from downtown Auckland — the drive is long but the scenery along the way, especially through the farmland on the return leg, is a treat. Guide Grant kept everyone entertained throughout. The only downside was legroom in the smaller van for taller travellers, but overall it's a great tour and Hobbiton is a must while visiting the North Island.
“Hobbiton trip was great with Simon.”
An amazing day with guide Simon, who made everything easy to follow on the drive from Auckland to the Hobbiton area. He was friendly, informative and accommodating, even offering to take photos for the group — highly recommended.
“Amazing time in Hobbiton”
Driver/guide Don really spoiled the group — sharing local history, handing out ice cream, chips and water, and singing five Māori songs along the way. Within half an hour the tour group felt like family. A really lovely experience.
“This is the tour group to pick for Hobbiton.”
Glad to have picked Cheeky Kiwi — the small group size really enhanced the experience, and guide Grant was knowledgeable and friendly. The small group continued once inside Hobbiton too. Highly recommended, and the highlight of a short Auckland stay.
“Magic of Hobbiton”
A well-organised, comfortable and entertaining ride to Hobbiton, with Don sharing Māori songs and New Zealand history along the way. Visiting Hobbiton was a dream come true, though photo time felt a little rushed with other groups close behind. The ginger ale at the Green Dragon Inn and the ice cream stop on the way back were highlights of a highly recommended tour.
“Enchanting Journey Through Hobbiton”
A truly beautiful experience, especially for fans of the films — worth watching The Hobbit beforehand to appreciate it fully. Guide Don's delightful personality made the day even more enjoyable.
“It is a travel destination worth visiting at least once.”
The filming location was smaller than expected, and the explanations ran a little long, but it was still worth a brief look around. There are separate driving guides and on-site field guides, all in English. The car guide was helpful with drop-off arrangements around flight timing — worth a visit at least once.
“Excellent start to finish”
A great tour with on-time hotel pickup. Guide Grant was knowledgeable, friendly and a good driver, and the smaller group of around 20 in a comfortable van made for a smooth day. Highly recommended, with breathtaking countryside around Hobbiton.
“Cheeky Kiwi Review”
We had simon as our driver and he was really fun. Car was amazing and the service was even better. We went to hobbiton and then to the thermal waters. Had an amazing time.
“Amazing - Well worth a visit”
A high-quality tour that lived up to expectations, with great sets and a pleasant walk around the location after a short coach ride. Guide Steve was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making sure everyone had a great time — recommended for any LOTR fan.
“Hobbiton day tour from Auckland”
A thoroughly enjoyable Hobbiton day tour — driver Don shared historical information and Māori songs, gave background on the areas passed along the way, and remembered everyone's names in the group of sixteen. There was a stop with food options and restrooms en route, and the roughly two-and-a-half-hour Hobbiton tour now includes access to a furnished hobbit house. It's a full day but a good one, with Don dropping everyone right at their hotel afterwards. Recommended, especially for LOTR fans.
“Incredible tour guide, well-rounded tour”
Don was an incredible guide and driver, singing songs in his native language, sharing history and making sure everyone was comfortable throughout the day.
“Great tour with guide Don Roa”
Guide Don Roa was truly amazing, making everyone feel welcome, remembering names, and dropping each guest at their own hotel afterwards. The roughly two-hour drive from Auckland to the Hobbiton set was worth it — the Shire setting was beautiful, and both a Lord of the Rings fan and a non-fan in the group had a great time. A nice mix of ages made it enjoyable for younger travellers too. Highly recommended.
“Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (19/04/24)”
A trip to Hobbiton with two friends via Cheeky Kiwi — driver/guide Michael was friendly and talkative, happy to answer anything about New Zealand and share stories about the country and Hobbiton itself. The tour was well worth the price, and the guide was helpful even for those who hadn't seen the films. Worth checking the weather beforehand.
“Absolutely the best!”
So worth it, especially travelling solo — a lovely, easy way to get to and from Hobbiton. Guide Michael was kind, funny and informative. Highly recommend.
“Great experience with Grant”
A fun trip down to Hobbiton with driver/guide Grant, who was friendly and shared great insights into New Zealand along the way. Hobbiton itself is well worth seeing — expansive and immersive.
“Lovely experience!”
A very good trip with a nice guide — a long-awaited visit to Hobbiton that finally came true. Cheeky Kiwi was a good choice and comes recommended.
“Holiday Highlight”
A great tour with hotel pickup, drinks and snacks provided, and well-timed breaks. The driver gave ongoing commentary about the places passed along the way, and clear instructions for collecting tickets once at Hobbiton. The Hobbiton tour itself was brilliant, with the driver meeting the group again at the Green Dragon Inn afterwards for a smooth trip back to Auckland.
“Great day out”
A great day out — glad to have chosen this tour rather than driving to Hobbiton independently. Guide Simon was friendly and knowledgeable, and the whole day was very well organised.
“Amazing”
Very informative, friendly and organised. Provided great information during the drive and was a smooth transition into the Hobbiton tour. Provided water and a snack which was nice. Grant is amazing!
“Wonderful Service”
The driver was kind and shared great stories about New Zealand on the way to and from Hobbiton, with Don's playlist helping the long drive fly by.
“A childhood story come to life”
Driver Simon was terrific, taking a scenic route to show off different areas around Auckland along the way, with good music to match. Overall a great day out.
“Great friendly service”
Don was an amazing, friendly guide who shared interesting historical stories including some te reo Māori on the drive down to Hobbiton, plus a stop at an ice cream parlour. The transfer was seamless despite a minor van radio hiccup — would book with Cheeky Kiwi again.
“Hobbiton is a must”
The tour matched the description exactly — an on-time pickup, a small group of 16-18, and a roughly two-to-two-and-a-half-hour drive to Matamata with driver Greg, who got everyone chatting and shared plenty about New Zealand. Hobbiton's own guides take over for the movie set tour itself, and Greg waited to bring the group back to Auckland with an ice cream stop in Pokeno.
“Hobbiton review”
Had a great time. Our guide Grant was very nice and informative. Didn't need the ice cream stop on the way back to Auckland, but very happy with the tour itself. Would recommend.
“Excellent tour for solo travelers or groups”
A must-see even years after reading the book or watching the films — the working farm setting is beautiful, with impressive landscaping, real vegetable gardens and giant pumpkins, and plenty of time for photos. New furnished multi-room hobbit homes have been added recently, so it's worth booking ahead as tours fill up. Driver Jason was very informative — would happily do this tour again.
“It’s a people business! Our guide John is fantastic!”
Guide John made this experience unforgettable, keeping the whole group connected and engaged with his great people skills. Timely and professional throughout — well worth requesting him.
“Go visit Hobbiton, NOW”
Driver Greg was amazing, sharing the rich history of Auckland and Māori culture, and even singing the story behind the New Zealand national anthem — he really made the day. Hobbiton itself was a unique experience even having already seen the films, walking through the small hobbit town and houses in person.
“On time, interesting driver and great tour”
The van was on time and kept to schedule, with driver Simon relaxed, good-humoured and clearly an expert behind the wheel. The movie set tour itself was excellent — the hobbit village is larger and more detailed than expected, and the setting is lovely. The gift shop, though, is worth skipping.
“Perfect day out for all!”
I highly recommend this tour company, very well organised and lovely transport! Our guide was super friendly and chatty and shared some great stories and knowledge on hobbiton! It was the perfect start to our tour!!!! A must for any trip to Auckland!
“Grant for president!”
Not exactly an adventure, but still well worth the trip. Guide Grant was fantastic, and the film set never felt overcrowded or rushed.
“Brilliant day out”
A great day out to see Hobbiton — guide Hosefa was brilliant, and the tour was well paced and organised. Enjoyable even for someone who isn't a Lord of the Rings fan, and the insider knowledge shared makes rewatching the films more fun.
“Awesome trip to Middle Earth”
A must for any Tolkien fan visiting the North Island. The tour is a little pricey but well worth it — well organised from check-in to departure, with guide Rob exceptional at leading a group representing six different nations, even through heavy rain. In hindsight, booking the full banquet option would have been worthwhile, as the two-and-a-half-hour movie set tour left the reviewer wanting more.
“Hobbits, Ice Cream, and Serenades”
A wonderful day spent with driver/guide Don, whose local knowledge, warm presence and singing made the two-hour drive to Hobbiton nearly as enjoyable as the destination itself — complete with personal stories and Māori songs along the way. Hobbiton exceeded expectations, with the care put into the hobbit holes and gardens evident everywhere, and the roughly two-and-a-half-hour guided tour left plenty of time for photos and a drink at the Green Dragon. The return trip included a detour to a lake and an ice cream stop, plus another song for the group. Highly recommended, and a real highlight of a short stay in Auckland.
“Great fun, informative narration, Hobbiton a great place to…”
An excellent tour with guide John, who made the journey fun and engaging with insightful New Zealand commentary and friendly banter. Hobbiton was amazing even in incessant rain — highly recommended, and would book with Cheeky Kiwi again.
“Great fun in Hobbiton”
A fantastic, well-organised experience worth every penny. The driver was cheery and full of interesting facts, pickup was prompt, and the group of 14 felt well looked after throughout. The tour itself was slick and fun without feeling rushed, with a welcome drink at the Green Dragon to finish.
“Fabulous day trip to Hobbiton”
Cheeky Kiwi arranged a fabulous day trip to Hobbiton — driver John was friendly and full of helpful advice, and guide Steve led an informative two-hour walking tour of the site, which now includes a fully furnished hobbit house. Highly recommended.
“Great Visit - High Prices - Big Crowds”
Great scenery and a well-organised tour overall, though the group sizes are on the large side and the crowding at the main retail centre, along with high souvenir prices, took away from the experience a little.
“Wonderful tour company and a great time!”
A wonderful tour with Grant as guide — he clearly loves his job and made sure everyone had a great time, with snacks, bathroom breaks and an ice cream stop (hokey pokey recommended) along the way. The small bus was clean, air-conditioned and comfortable. Would happily do this again, but only with this company.
“Hobbit Holes”
It's a bit of a drive from Auckland, but the driver was safe, friendly and informative with well-timed bathroom breaks, and the van was comfortable throughout. The visit to Hobbiton itself was amazing — a must for any Lord of the Rings fan.
“Awesome 👌”
An all-round great experience — the driver was amazing and went out of his way for the group, and Hobbiton itself was a dream come true.
“Dream come true!”
An absolutely incredible experience — a dream come true that didn't disappoint. Guide Alessandro was awesome and very knowledgeable.
“Don + Hobbiton = a great day !”
Fantastic from start to finish — driver Don picked the group up on time, shared great information and a couple of songs on the two-hour drive, and kept everyone informed with restroom breaks along the way. The Hobbiton tour itself ran like a well-oiled machine, with reasonably priced food available on site. The drive back was just as pleasant, with more singing and an ice cream stop. Highly recommend the Hobbiton tour with Cheeky Kiwi.
“A tourist attraction done right”
A fun trip with driver Don, who was knowledgeable about Māori culture and history, attentive enough to learn everyone's names, and both punctual and kind. The tour itself included a full look around the movie set and a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon, led by an enthusiastic guide. Even for those not usually keen on tourist attractions, this one was well worth it.
“Well organized and informative tour”
A thoroughly enjoyable Hobbiton tour, with excellent, patient guides who shared plenty of fun details about both the surrounding area and Hobbiton itself. The group appreciated how organised everything was, with clear directions on what to expect and when to regroup after each stop.
“Good day in middle earth.”
It's a long day, but driver Ann made the drive out and back enjoyable with her stories and knowledge of New Zealand, even though the van felt a bit crowded with 15 passengers aboard. Hobbiton itself was fabulous — a must-do for anyone with any interest in Lord of the Rings.
“Wonderful day”
A really enjoyable Hobbiton tour with driver Don, who clearly loves his homeland and shared wonderful stories and songs along the way. The drive to and from the movie set was beautiful too.
“Fabulous Day at the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour”
A wonderful day trip to the Hobbiton Movie Set with Michael as driver and guide through the countryside to the Shire. The smaller group size was a plus, and there was plenty to learn along the way about both New Zealand and the Hobbit/Lord of the Rings films — a tour highly recommended through Cheeky Kiwi.
“Fabulous tour”
A wonderful time overall — pickup was on time at an easy-to-find spot, and driver Don was considerate, entertaining everyone with singing and dropping them back at their cruise ship afterwards. Hobbiton itself was great fun with guide Toby, and there was even a bonus ice cream stop along the way. Highly recommended.
“Best day ever”
Best day ever — Hobbiton was magnificent and felt like a childhood dream come true, made even more special by driver Don's efforts.
“Amazing Hobbiton adventure”
The visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set was amazing. Picked up in Auckland, the couple found driver Grant's banter and local fun facts made the ride enjoyable, and he was especially helpful and respectful in accommodating a motorised wheelchair. A quick ice cream stop on the way back to Auckland rounded out a five-star day thanks to Grant.
“Incredible”
Hobbiton was simply incredible, just like in the films, and the scenery on the drive there was beautiful too. Guide Grant was excellent — clear, informative, and added some nice extra touches — making for a tour the reviewer loved.
“Incredible visit”
A spectacular visit — driver Don was so knowledgeable about the land and its history that he made the long bus ride genuinely enjoyable. The Hobbiton tour itself was fantastic, feeling just like stepping into the Shire.
“Wonderful tour to Hobbiton”
Highly recommended — the smaller group of about 15 made the experience feel worthwhile and good value. Driver Don was personable, sharing the history of the areas along the route and even singing songs, and had everyone introduce themselves early on so the group bonded by the end of the trip.
Toured Hobbiton and had an awesome experience - our guide Alessandro was cheeky, funny, knowledgeable and kind. He made sure I was comfortable and never made my mobility needs feel like any trouble.
“A wonderful small group tour of a very special movie set”
As former Hollywood film industry professionals and big Lord of the Rings fans, this couple was eager to see the Hobbiton set, and found the small 13-person group tour a great way to learn about the location. Driver Grant used a headset mic to give clear commentary on the drive, including how Peter Jackson scouted the site and convinced the farmer to allow filming, while set guide Nathaniel added more detail on Jackson's meticulous approach and answered questions. They were lucky enough to see the newly opened interior sets built into two of the hobbit holes, and came away saying the tour was well worth the cost — the Shire even more captivating in person than on screen.
Had an awesome experience touring Hobbiton with guide Alessandro, who was cheeky, funny, knowledgeable and kind throughout. He was great about accommodating my mobility needs without ever making it feel like a hassle - couldn't thank him enough.
“Highlight of our trip so far”
Driver Grant was pleasant, courteous, and gave relevant information, walking the group through what to expect and making sure there was time for lunch before the tour started. A magical place not to be missed.
“Fantastic day at Hobbiton”
A great day out with guide Grant from Cheeky Kiwi. Hobbiton was amazing and well worth visiting the Shire — highly recommended.
“Very good!”
Easy, fun, and enjoyable overall. A very nice driver provided useful information and interesting cultural and nature insights along the way.
“Unique experience”
A really enjoyable, well-organised trip to Hobbiton — the driver and guide were friendly and informative throughout. Recommended to anyone, and good value for money.
“Worth every Penny!”
A fantastic day out from Auckland — the 2+ hour drive is definitely worth it. Driver Trevor was informative and polite, and the 2.5-hour tour itself was wonderful.
“Kindest Tour Guides!”
A helpful rundown of how the tour works: Cheeky Kiwi picks you up and drives you to the Hobbiton Tourist Centre/Shire, where you join a bus tour of the set with other groups — you can't just turn up and buy tickets on the spot. Guide Trevor, on what was apparently his first tour, was friendly and informative despite being a little shy, and a second Cheeky Kiwi guide assisting him was equally personable. Tips included arriving 20-25 minutes early, eating a good breakfast since the on-site cafe gets busy, and trying the pie and cookie at the Green Dragon Inn at the end (though portions there are small). All up, the advertised 9-hour day breaks down to roughly 2.5 hours each way plus a 2-hour tour, with room for traffic.
“Well worth a visit”
Hadn't seen the films beforehand, but still found it really interesting and worth the visit — a well-organised tour with friendly guides.
“Couldn't ask for more.”
I could not be more pleased with my entire experience. The bus was comfortable, safe, and had phone charging usb ports at each seat. Our driver/guidel Michael was cheerful, knowledgeable, and looked after us as a shepherd would his flock, keeping an eye out to be sure we hit all the right check points. He gave us some NZ history along the drive, pointing out landmarks. On the way back he took us through a town with painted cow (life size) statues and made a quick stop at an amazing ice cream shop with dozens of flavors I'd never heard of. All this, beyond the Hobbiton tour itself, which had a different guide, associated with Hobbiton. I want to add that when the company I booked my tour with, cancelled my reservation (long story, a miscommunication), CheekyKiwi contacted me the next day to say that they, themselves, had not cancelled my reservation and I was "on" for the tour. Whew!
“Don’t miss this trip!”
An excellent trip all around — driver Cameron was an extraordinary ambassador for his homeland, and his passion for sharing it made the drive both delightful and educational. The on-site Hobbiton tour, led by guide Lily, was similarly informative and delightful.
“Terrific experience!”
A fantastic experience — driver Don was punctual, kind, and a gracious host who kept everyone educated and entertained on the drive to and from the Shire. Hobbiton itself felt other-worldly, making for a near-perfect day.
“Absolutely beautiful place.”
A really beautiful place — even without having seen the Hobbit films, this was a loved experience, including going inside a hobbit hole with cute, detailed interiors. Everything was well planned; this was the reviewer's second Cheeky Kiwi tour and they'd happily book again.
“A must do”
Guide Malcolm was great throughout — when heavy traffic caused the group to miss their 1pm slot, he quickly arranged a spot on the 1:20 tour instead.
“Excellent trip!”
Driver Malcolm was knowledgeable and picked the group up from Cordis for a comfortable, if slightly warm, ride with 16 passengers, before switching to a bigger bus for the guided tour. The new interior hobbit holes, complete with air conditioning, were a real highlight on a hot day, along with a cool drink at the Green Dragon Inn and the chance to post postcards and buy souvenirs at the gift shop.
“Simply the best. Definitely would recommend.”
A very knowledgeable guide and easy transport made for an enjoyable visit to Hobbiton — an excellent time all around.
“ABSOLUTELY INDESCRIBABLE”
An absolutely fabulous time, with driver John's humour keeping things fun from pickup to drop-off. The gift shop stop felt a little rushed and the van was a tight fit for the length of the trip, but the group was lovely and Hobbiton itself was a must-see for any Lord of the Rings or Hobbit fan — one to do again without hesitation.
“Fantastic Tour from Excellent Staff, Worth Every Penny”
A great experience — the driver was friendly and funny, sharing interesting insights about New Zealand on the drive. There was time for lunch at the on-site cafe before the tour, which turned out better than expected, and the reviewer was glad to have visited after the indoor hobbit hole experience was added. Recommended for any Lord of the Rings or Hobbit fan.
“Great fun”
Prompt, friendly, and stress-free service throughout. Guide Don was a highlight, sharing the history of the places along the route and singing wonderful songs.
“Hobbiton WOW”
Driver Don was fantastic, with wonderful singing along the way, and Hobbiton itself was awesome — especially now that visitors can go inside a hobbit hole.
“We lovedbthe Hobbiton set tour!”
Hobbiton is true to the books, with thoughtful detail everywhere and beautiful grounds, and the new Bag End tour was a wonderful addition. Despite it being quite crowded, the tour directors managed the timing well so everyone still got plenty of chances for photos.
“An enjoyable trip to Hobbiton.”
An excellent trip to the movie set — driver Don made everyone feel welcome, and the drive was scenic and comfortable with informative commentary throughout. Highly recommended.
“Perfect way to visit hobbiton for a solo traveler”
Absolutely fantastic, and a great option for solo travellers — this small group tour crosses beautiful countryside with water and snacks provided, and the guide kept everyone informed about New Zealand throughout. Driver/guide Grant was humorous, kind, and looked after the whole group well, making it a tour worth booking again.
“The best way to visit Hobbiton!”
A great time in Hobbiton, with driver Grant outstanding throughout — someone who radiates positive energy. Pickup, the drive there and back, and the stops along the way were all perfectly handled.
“My 2nd time to Hobbiton might be more memorable than the 1st”
On a return visit to Hobbiton after weather had cut short some plans earlier in the trip, driver Don managed to make the second visit even more memorable than the first — remembering everyone's names and making each person feel individually welcomed, plus sharing culture and history lessons along the way. He's known for handing the microphone to whoever sits up front for a singalong, which made for a fun and memorable ride back to Auckland. A tour worth booking again, with a specific request for Don next time.
“Mark was an awesome guide”
A great way to start off the New Zealand adventure — guides Mark and Fiona were kind, informative, and helpful, and Hobbiton itself was lovely. The small group made it feel like travelling with family.
“Hobbiton Guided Tour”
An amazing tour with friends — guide Don Roa was wonderful and super insightful, narrating as the group drove to Matamata, with a great playlist along the way. There were stops for food and a bathroom break, plus a detour to a small town for ice cream on the return trip. A perfect experience.
“Long Drive from Auckland to Hobbiton Movie Set”
The drive from Auckland to Matamata runs more than two hours each way, so more than half of the roughly 8-hour day is spent in the van. Driver John kept things from getting boring with introductions, music, area history, and open discussion, though the 16-person van group joins an even larger crowd once transferred to the standard bus for the actual set visit. The movie set itself was amazing, full of flowers, plants, and small details at each cottage. On-site guide Nathaniel was good, but without headsets for the large group he became hard to hear once it started raining, despite oversized umbrellas being handed out — additional hobbit cottages were noted as due to open for entry in December.
“Hobbiton Day Trip, Nov 2023”
An excellent trip — professional driver John got everyone off to a good start with introductions that made the group feel like friends. Tour guide Troy at Hobbiton made the visit itself enjoyable and entertaining, and this comes recommended especially for those on a short Auckland stay, with the reviewer keen to use the company again on future New Zealand trips.
“An experience I will never forget. Thank you Anne for making…”
Guide Anne was amazing — going the extra mile, staying constantly present, and providing excellent information throughout.
“#HobbitDON”
An outstanding day thanks to guide/driver Don, who handled everything from pickup to drop-off with warmth and energy — singing along the way, marking birthdays and anniversaries for guests on board, and sharing detailed New Zealand culture and history. He rerouted around traffic to take in scenic countryside instead of a queued motorway, and went out of his way for a stop at Pokeno for ice cream. A glowing, enthusiastic review that says a five-star rating barely covers the level of service.
“Fun and entertaining”
The driver and guide to the set was amazing, giving an in-depth history of New Zealand and Māori culture during the drive while being charming, courteous, and fun. The van was clean and well kept, and this is a company the reviewer would happily travel with again.
“Magical! Must to see no matter if you are a fan of the…”
A magical experience whether or not you're a fan of the films — the driver-guide was wonderful and there was enough time to tour, eat, and shop at Hobbiton. The on-site guide shared plenty of information, allowed time for photos between stops, and kept good spacing from other groups so it never felt too crowded. Worth noting: wear comfortable shoes, as there's some walking involved even in the rain.
“Picture Perfect Movie Set - Here's my pro tips to get the…”
A fab time with driver Hanuz, who was patient, good-humoured, and drove well. Handy tips: November weather can be changeable, water is provided on the bus so no need to bring extra, and it helps to watch the film beforehand. Learning some of the practical realities behind the set (the homes aren't enterable, some trees are artificial) took a little shine off, but it remains a picture-perfect, well-organised set in stunning surroundings.
“Great!”
A must-do even for those who aren't Lord of the Rings or Hobbit fans — genuinely amazing, with guide Cameron making the experience extra special. Highly recommended.
“Great Experience. A Must do!”
A great attraction, highly recommended when visiting New Zealand. Cheeky Kiwi's driver was friendly, professional, and attentive, and the on-site Hobbiton guide and easy transport rounded out a visit where there was plenty to learn and enjoy.
“Great experience and tour”
Five stars — the drive had great scenery and the tour itself was fantastic. Operator John was informative, engaged, and personable, making an effort to involve everyone; a must-do for Lord of the Rings fans, and still a great experience even for those who aren't.
“Well worth a visit!”
A long day, but worth it — driver Michael filled the journey with history and information about the sites passed along the way. Hobbiton itself was amazing with guide Z, and the cider and beer at the Green Dragon at the end was a particular highlight.
“Great day out in Middle Earth/Aotearoa.”
Driver Don was excellent, knowledgeable, and charismatic — driving safely, arriving on time, and offering flexible drop-off options. There was time to shop and eat before the tour, plenty of interesting history and trivia along the way, and a stop for truly spectacular ice cream on the return leg. A great trip overall.
“Memorable trip to Hobbiton”
Driver/guide Don Roa greeted the group warmly at pickup and was both informative and entertaining throughout, making sure every question was answered — couldn't have asked for a better guide.
“Is Don, is good!!”
Driver Don from Cheeky Kiwi Tours made sure everyone had a wonderful day, engaging personally with each guest and sharing his own experiences and love of his cultural heritage. Along the way he told historical stories, sang a lullaby for a baby on board, and serenaded a couple celebrating their anniversary — a genuinely educational, fun, and memorable trip.
“Great experience. Thank you Don!”
A great experience with driver Don, who was flexible, polite, and very informative — his singing was a highlight too, and there was time to pick up souvenirs along the way.
“Friendly and Professional Tour Guide - Hobbiton Cheeky Kiwi”
A tour guide can make or break the day, and guide Keneth made this one a fantastic experience — greeting everyone warmly, helping the group connect, and knowing when to chat and when to give people quiet time. His local commentary kept the longish drive interesting, and it made for an enjoyable first day in Auckland for both the reviewer and her teenage daughter, despite very little sleep beforehand. Already looking forward to the next Cheeky Kiwi tour.
“I went on an adventure!”
A really good day out, with clear pickup instructions and a knowledgeable guide, Michael, who knew plenty about Auckland. At Hobbiton, guide River was equally great and friendly, and the views, overall experience, and included extras all added up to a perfect day.
“Don the Man”
Driver Don made for a great Hobbiton Day Tour from Auckland, with a comfortable minibus that even had charging points. His commentary on history, landscape, and Māori culture was well delivered and entertaining, and it clearly showed he loves the work — a 10-out-of-10 day out.
“Would go again”
Driver Don did an amazing job — very knowledgeable, and considerate enough to check whether passengers were sleeping and quieten his commentary accordingly. WiFi on board worked well, and a stop at an ice cream place on the way back was a delicious bonus.
“Not to be missed!”
Mark was a friendly, informative host who had everyone introduce themselves early on, which helped build a friendly group that looked out for each other once aboard the Hobbiton bus. The on-site tour, led by guide Melissa, was well organised enough that the group never felt like they were bumping into other tour groups — a truly amazing experience all around.
“Highlight of our NZ trip”
A loved tour — Hobbiton was delightful, and guide Matt was friendly and competent throughout. Highly recommended.
“A trip not to forget”
Despite a change in schedule, the experience stayed pleasant thanks to a guide who remained attentive throughout — a very pleasant day overall.
“Awesome trip with tour guide Grant”
A gorgeous movie set and an easy, relaxed drive from Auckland — fun even in the rain, and a free beer at the end capped things off nicely.
“awesome day”
An awesome day trip out to the Hobbiton outdoor film set and back to Auckland. The interior hobbit hole experience wasn't open yet at the time (still under construction, so it was outdoor sightseeing plus the Green Dragon Inn), but the countryside on the way there was beautiful, and despite the crowds the photos and knowledgeable guides — including a memorable guide with a Welsh accent on-site — made it a great day.
“Relaxing way to do Hobbiton tour from Auckland”
Grant was the perfect guide, getting the group there and back safely and making sure everyone had all the information and timing needed for the Hobbiton tour, with nothing to worry about on-site.
“All in All a great experience!!”
Kiwi Travel did a great job organising transfer and access to the Hobbiton Movie Set, with friendly staff and guides throughout. A mini-bus issue identified at a rest stop caused a delay, but the company quickly rearranged the tour time so the group still made it to see Hobbiton, which was amazing — the issue was handled quickly and professionally, making for a great overall experience.
“Well kept movie set”
Great day out with a professional, friendly Cheeky Kiwi guide. Their guide Brad, who has connections to the Hobbit films and is doing a PhD related to trilogies, gave excellent explanations throughout. The reviewer says the Hobbiton movie set was fantastic and a must-see in person for any Hobbit or Lord of the Rings fan.
“The way to go!”
The perfect way to get from Auckland to Hobbiton — driver Grant was funny, kind, and knowledgeable, making the small-group experience exceed expectations. It felt like being taken on an adventure by an old friend.
“Amazing !!”
This first-time NZ tour turned out to be an amazing experience thanks to guide Grant, who was professional, punctual, and generous with information and options throughout the day. Hobbiton itself was memorable, and the reviewer highly recommends the trip to the movie set.
“Tour was great and guide provided lots of interesting…”
The guide was knowledgeable and engaging, making for an excellent trip overall; the only downside was a traffic jam on the way home.
“Amazing experience!”
A fantastic, immersive day at the picturesque movie set. Guide Althea was praised for her energy, helpfulness, and knowledge.
“A wizard is never late.”
A great experience overall - the guide took extra time to make sure everyone enjoyed the trip. Definitely recommended.
“BEST TIME!!”
Clean transport and a very knowledgeable, friendly guide made for a great day meeting people from all over the world. Everything was included except snacks at the pit stop and the gift shop.
“Beautiful Scenery and Set!”
A great day trip from Auckland with guide Grant, who was knowledgeable and gave a good overview of the Auckland area en route. Hobbiton itself was also really cool to see in person, and the scenic drive combined with a great guide made for a wonderful overall experience.
“Timely, knowledgeable and professional.”
Used Cheeky Kiwi for a Hobbiton visit and highly recommends them to anyone planning the same trip, especially guide Grant.
“See if with your own eyes!”
As fans of the Lord of the Rings franchise, the reviewer felt like they were walking through the Shire and found the trip well worth it. The on-site guide was very knowledgeable about Hobbiton and the films, the sets were well maintained and detailed, and driver Cam showed genuine Kiwi hospitality along with good recommendations for other things to do.
“Great Tour (from a non-LOTR fan)”
Joined a Lord of the Rings-fan friend for the tour and had a great time despite not having rewatched the films in years. Guide Cam wove in NZ and LOTR trivia on the drive down; at Hobbiton there was time to browse the cafe and gift shop (the pepper steak pie was a highlight), plus a well-preserved, relaxed walking tour of the farm. An on-set guide happily took photos throughout, some construction underway didn't detract from the visit, and Cam capped off the day with a stop at a favourite local ice-cream spot on the way home.
“Great Tour to Book”
Guide Cam was lovely, and pickup from a hotel near the reviewer's Airbnb made the trip convenient. Recommended as an easy, fun option for Auckland visitors who don't want to rent a car but still want to see Hobbiton.
“A fantabulosa day. Not a made up word; it’s from Round the…”
Had a fun trip to Hobbiton with guide John, who was full of information and made the journey enjoyable; the on-site tour guide was also good. As a long-time fan of the books and, more recently, the films, the reviewer found it well worth visiting and had a great day with Cheeky Kiwi.
“Great tour guide, magical experience”
Took the small-group tour to the Hobbiton movie set with guide John, who was funny, kind, and made pickup easy while sharing plenty of information about the Auckland area on the drive down. At the set it felt like stepping into the Shire; some construction was underway, but complimentary gifts from the farm and the hobbit homes themselves more than made up for it, and John made sure everyone got photos in the iconic spots, including couples and group shots. An excellent, five-star experience overall.
A really enjoyable tour from Auckland to Hobbiton - it's a long drive, so our guide Mark had everyone introduce themselves, which helped the group bond. We passed through the small town of Cambridge along the way, which was a nice change from just seeing the main cities, and Mark's facts on New Zealand geography, geology and history were genuinely interesting. Hobbiton itself was spectacular, with the rolling shire hills and newer developments making for a superb visit.
“A Wonderful Adventure”
The host went out of their way to bring the group together and share their knowledge, helping the reviewer enjoy not just the tour but their whole time in New Zealand. The Hobbiton experience itself was loved and is fully recommended.
“Pleasant Ride to Hobbiton”
The driver was friendly and explained plenty about the area along the way, even taking a scenic local road instead of the highway to make the most of the landscape. Overall a really good trip.
“Great tour company!”
Cheeky Kiwi delivered an amazing tour - guide Grant kept the group entertained on the drive down and back and looked after everyone well. The movie set tour itself was stunning, especially for Tolkien fans.
“Awesome day out”
Had an awesome day out, enjoying the stops along the way and guide Grant's knowledge of hidden gems in the area.
“Great Tour, Great Driver”
Hobbiton was the highlight, closely followed by driver John, who shared plenty of information about the places passed along the drive and made the journey enjoyable. Highly recommends Cheeky Kiwi for the trip, especially with John as driver.
“Definitely Recommended!”
Guide Grant was a hit with the whole family, sharing plenty of interesting and funny stories throughout. When the reviewer's grandmother had trouble with mobility near the end of the tour, he was fantastic in helping her, and it sounds like the whole busload appreciated his service.
Cam was our guide to Hobbiton and was terrific, sharing plenty of information about Auckland and New Zealand. We followed several of his recommendations for other places to visit. Highly recommend both Kiwi Travel and the Hobbiton trip itself.
“Beautiful scenery, great tour guide and well worth the money…”
Well worth the money, with beautiful scenery around Hobbiton. The on-site guide was friendly and offered to take photos for solo travellers, and the group turned out to be a comfortable mix of solo travellers and pairs rather than only families. Guide John was friendly and funny, sharing tips for Auckland as well as useful information about Christchurch and Queenstown for the reviewer's onward travel. Overall a great, worthwhile day out.
“Enjoyable”
The group was great, and driver/guide John was friendly and always ready to share extra information about New Zealand attractions and history. Recommends doing the tour in a small group.
“Wonderful daytrip”
Guide John was a delight and made the tour interesting and enjoyable; Hobbiton itself was very cool to see and the on-site guide was great too.
Thanks to Grant for being so kind, welcoming and informative. We visited the Hobbiton Movie Set on a day trip from Auckland, and Grant's professionalism and kindness made the whole experience extra special.
“Nice”
The driver kept things interesting along the road, with treats handed out en route and a stop at a well-known New Zealand ice cream spot on the way back. Entry to the village included a complimentary drink (ginger beer or wine) and a souvenir cup at the end.
“Lovely driver, great experience”
Guide Grant was wonderful, friendly and upbeat, sharing plenty of information on the drive to Hobbiton and including both a coffee stop on the way there and an ice cream stop on the way back. Hobbiton itself, set among rolling hills, was well run and organized, with the guide making sure everyone saw everything and had time for photos; ongoing construction didn't really affect the visit, and Grant offered some final tips for the rest of the stay on the drive back to the hotel.
“A fun tour to Hobbiton”
Took the Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland and had a great time in a clean, tidy van, enjoying meeting the other travellers along the way. The guide was a good driver with plenty of interesting commentary, the Hobbiton experience itself was wonderful, and post-tour snacks and drinks plus an ice cream stop on the way back rounded out a trip the reviewer recommends doing with Cheeky Kiwi.
“Great Hobbiton Tour”
Guide John was brilliant - polite, informative and entertaining - making for a fun, highly recommended visit to Hobbiton.
“Great driver, great communication, great tour!”
Driver Simon was welcoming and kind, making extra effort with drop-offs and sharing fun facts along the drive. The whole booking-to-tour process was smooth, with spot-on communication throughout.
“Great Time at Hobbiton - Thank you Cameron!”
Driver Cameron was punctual, professional and friendly, accommodating everyone's needs and offering great local knowledge and recommendations. His commentary during the drive was just as entertaining as the Hobbiton tour itself, making for a great overall day.
“Tour of Hobbiton”
Guide Brendon was knowledgeable, passionate about his work and a very good driver, making for an excellent tour of Hobbiton. Highly recommends booking with Cheeky Kiwi for a great day.
“Exceptional Service !!!”
After being left stranded by their originally booked tour company due to misleading pickup and drop-off information, the reviewer was rescued by Cheeky Kiwi, thanks to driver Simon and the company's management. They praised the exceptional service shown not just to them but to other stranded customers as well, and highly recommend Cheeky Kiwi for looking after guests and getting everyone home safely.
“Loved it !”
Driver/guide Simon was personable and informative about Auckland and New Zealand, making for an excellent tour. Would definitely use and recommend Cheeky Kiwi for future tours.
“Magical despite the weather”
The tour ran despite some of the worst weather New Zealand had seen, with the guide bending over backwards to accommodate late arrivals and keeping things well organized throughout. Rain held off during the actual visit to the movie set, and on the return drive the guide used local knowledge to navigate around road closures from flooding and slips, staying personable and professional the whole time. The reviewer found Hobbiton magical and was inspired to rewatch all three films afterward.
“Really great tour!”
Expected a corny tour but was pleasantly surprised by how much they enjoyed it. Guide Hayley was clear and engaging, pointing out details about the movies and the specific areas where scenes were filmed.
“Place to visit for hobbit!”
A beautiful place with plenty to see for Hobbit fans. The tour around the site was well organized, with guide Stevie friendly and good throughout.
“Pleasant Habib Village Trip”
Pickup was on time and the guide was kind, serious and responsible, making for a pleasant trip with beautiful scenery, though rain meant not all the views could be fully appreciated. The reviewer suggests the website could give more detail on trip length and entry logistics for the village, but would consider other tours with the operator in future.
“World class tour !”
A world-class tour with punctual pickup and a very knowledgeable guide (Grant). Despite the site being fully booked, it never felt crowded thanks to two funny, competent on-site guides. The surrounding countryside was fantastic, and the level of detail kept alive at the set - laundry on the line, smoking chimneys, vegetables actually growing - was enough to convert even a reluctant companion into a genuine fan.
“Cheeky Kiwi is great”
Guide Jason was knowledgeable and funny, and the ride to and from Hobbiton was smooth and safe, including a stop for authentic New Zealand ice cream. Would definitely recommend doing this tour.
“Great Tour and Guide”
The Hobbiton tour with driver Jason was fantastic - he was also helpful with other things to do around Auckland and gave great commentary along the way. The Hobbiton site entry itself, included as described, lived up to expectations and was a wonderful place to experience.
A fantastic day trip to Hobbiton with John. It was a long day with an early start and late finish, but John kept us entertained with a constant stream of knowledge and cheeky jokes. Highly recommend Cheeky Kiwi and John.
“You won’t regret going!”
Driver Jason was funny and informative, even introducing the group to his dog during an ice cream stop. The movie set itself, set on a scenic sheep ranch with rolling hills, was amazing, and newer guide Olivia was excellent despite having only started a few months earlier - the beef and ale pie with the complimentary drink also got a special mention.
“Amazing day!”
Loved the Hobbiton tour - guide John was kind and funny, and offered good tips about Auckland and New Zealand.
“The Shire At It's Best!”
Did a private tour with guide Kate, who was awesome. The experience captured the peace, serenity and simplicity of the Shire, with no regrets about choosing the private option.
“Fun and wonderful experience!”
A wonderful, unforgettable experience - guide Jason kept everyone entertained with facts and information on the drive there, and the tour bus provided a smooth, comfortable journey. Highly recommended.
“A Gold Class Hobbiton Tour”
A wonderful trip with guide Mani, a brilliant host with great knowledge of New Zealand who took the time to get to know the group and made everyone feel welcome. Highly recommends Mani and Cheeky Kiwi to anyone.
“Awesome day trip”
An awesome, well-organized day with guide Mani, who answered every question and shared plenty of facts and information along the way. Would definitely recommend the tour to anyone wanting to see Hobbiton, especially with Mani as driver.
“Perfect trip to Hobbiton”
A great trip with driver Michael, who was knowledgeable and full of good humour throughout. As a big Lord of the Rings fan, the reviewer found Hobbiton and the scenic drive there really beautiful, with Michael always on hand to explain things and share entertaining stories. A perfect day that comes highly recommended.
“Perfect”
Guide Michael was a good, personable guide who kindly still went ahead with the visit even though there were only two people in the van that day, which the reviewer really appreciated.
“A Day of Pleasure”
Enjoyed Hobbiton and, despite being unsteady on their feet, managed the roughly hour-long walk without trouble. Both the site itself and the tour guide were very informative.
“Amazing guide”
Guide Michael was friendly and accommodating despite a slightly late pickup, keeping the group comfortable throughout and giving detailed explanations of the places passed on the way to Hobbiton, along with handy tips for making the most of the visit. A short but very enjoyable trip.
“Best Hobbiton Day Tour!”
A fantastic day finally getting to see the Shire's detail and scenery up close, well worth the early start and the scenic drive there. Guide Mike engaged the group with New Zealand history and wildlife trivia and made an effort to remember everyone's names, adding a nice personal touch that helped everyone feel at ease from the start.
“Unexpected Journey to Hobbiton!!!”
A great, unexpectedly fun trip with guide/driver Mike, whose local knowledge and humour stood out over the drive to Hobbiton. Being the first group through the site that day and getting lucky with great weather made the visit feel almost private, and the level of detail at the set was impressive enough to warrant spending hours there. A small, relaxed group, a stop at the Green Dragon for cider, and an insider ice-cream stop on the way back rounded out a spontaneous booking the reviewer was very glad they made.
“Good experience!”
This was a first solo trip in New Zealand, and initial nerves gave way to a great experience thanks to a friendly guide and the other travellers on board. The day also included a sunrise and a sheep farm alongside Hobbiton itself. Recommends the tour to everyone.
“hobbiton tour with sun”
Sunny weather during the tour and a very friendly driver made for an enjoyable visit to Hobbiton.
“Best tour in Aukland”
Not even a big fan of the Hobbit films, but this still turned out to be an amazingly fun and interesting day trip out of Auckland. Driver/guide Lance added humour and local colour over the roughly two-hour drive each way, the movie set itself was a spectacular attraction with a knowledgeable, pleasant guide for a manageable-sized group, and the day wrapped up with a local beer and a well-stocked souvenir shop.
“Perfect day with Cheeky Kiwi”
Driver Andre was knowledgeable about the country and great company on the drive, making the chance to see Hobbiton the highlight of a wonderful day.
“Excellent experience and driver.”
Well organized and helpful ahead of the trip, with driver Lance keeping the high standard of service going throughout a well-paced day trip out of Auckland. Also appreciated the broader knowledge shared about New Zealand along the way.
“Hobbiton Tour with Lance from Cheeky Travel”
The tour exceeded expectations thanks to chauffeur-guide Lance, an excellent storyteller with deep knowledge of New Zealand history and a great sense of humour. The reviewer felt very well looked after and would fully recommend both the tour and Lance as guide.
“A great day out with Grant”
Had some reservations about visiting such a popular tourist attraction but ended up having an incredible day out. Guide Grant's commentary and service brought the group together, and Hobbiton itself ran like a well-oiled machine; the reviewer particularly appreciated that both the transport and the site kept groups small.
“Just the best”
As Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fans, thoroughly enjoyed seeing the set. Driver/guide Lance made the roughly two-hour drive from Auckland pass quickly and enjoyably, and at Hobbiton, on-site guide Caleb shared great behind-the-scenes details - like how actors were made to look different heights on camera - while the well-preserved set brought scenes from the films to mind. A well-organized, must-see experience, with Lance recommended as guide.
“Hobbits and More of New Zealand”
A wonderful full-day small-group tour (six people) from Auckland to Hobbiton with driver/guide Michael, who was knowledgeable about New Zealand and the countryside travelled through along the way. The Hobbiton entrance fee was included in the price, making it a great option for Lord of the Rings fans wanting to see more of the country from Auckland.
“Thank goodness it was cloudy”
Fascinated by Hobbiton and the trivia behind the sets, though this reviewer found the guide's enthusiasm a bit forced and felt rushed throughout, including during the stop at the Green Dragon. The terrain involves some uphill walking and isn't accessible for those with mobility issues. Despite feeling a bit expensive for a hurried visit, it's recommended for genuine Lord of the Rings fans, ideally outside of the busy midsummer season. The grounds were beautifully maintained throughout the visit.
“Wonderful tour & guide”
A fantastic day with driver Lance, who was entertaining and full of fascinating stories on the drive to and from Hobbiton. Hobbiton itself was amazing, especially for fans of the books and films. A hassle-free day that comes highly recommended.
“Great trip to Middle Earth!”
A great Cheeky Kiwi tour to Hobbiton with driver Martin, who was friendly, funny and informative, making the long drive fly by with snacks and water provided. He sorted the tickets while the group had lunch, and Hobbiton itself was beautiful to explore. The return trip was smooth, getting everyone back to Auckland in time for dinner.
“Day Trip - Auckland to Hobbiton Film Set”
A very good day trip from Auckland to Hobbiton with a reasonable departure time and a return in time for dinner. Guide Lance was fantastic, offering insightful history on the Maori people during the drive down, and the tour includes a free beer at the Green Dragon.
“Hobbiton film set”
A very good day out, though it's a long round trip of about five hours. The tour guide was knowledgeable and informative, making it well worth the drive.
“Great day, great guide”
Traveled in a small van of five with an adorable and knowledgeable guide named Kenny, making for a special day full of learning about New Zealand.
“Excellent experience...”
The movie sets are amazing, a tiny special world of fantasy easy to get lost in. Guide Grant was excellent throughout.
“Hobbiton is pretty awesome with Cheeky Kiwi Tours”
Guides Kenna and Lou were excellent, with great knowledge of the area and the Hobbiton attraction, and they pointed out other local things to see and do. Highly recommended, with service that stood out beyond just the price.
“Awesome day at Hobbiton”
Highly recommends Cheeky Kiwi Travel, with perfectly organized pickup and drop-off at the CBD hotel. The small group of just four made the trip feel personal, and guide Louise was fun and knowledgeable, ably assisted by a trainee. A great overall experience with a friendly group of fellow travelers.
“Amazing and Enjoyable Experience”
One of the best tours experienced, with guide Simon being nice, funny and welcoming throughout an enjoyable Hobbiton movie set tour. Highly recommended.
“A very nice trip!”
Driver Andre was very helpful, sharing Australian/Kiwi perspectives and explaining the plan for restroom stops during the roughly two-hour drive to Hobbiton, since there's little along the way. He took a scenic route on approach for better views, and offered helpful suggestions and flexible drop-off options for things to do back in Auckland afterward.
“Great trip! Excellent guide!”
Driver Simon was lovely, knowledgeable and punctual, and the small group made for an enjoyable trip. Hobbiton itself was fantastic and completely worth it, though the reviewer suggests making it clearer that WiFi in the van isn't free, as the advertising implies otherwise, and the van itself was a bit tight on legroom. Still an overall wonderful day that they'd book again.
“Small group adventure”
This small-group trip was a highlight of the vacation, with driver Andre setting a friendly, family road-trip tone from the start. He was knowledgeable and made the long journey feel like its own tour, even taking the scenic route home. At Hobbiton, the guide kept everyone entertained throughout.
“Great day!”
Really enjoyed the day visiting the Hobbiton Movie Set, with staff who were accommodating and friendly throughout.
“One ticked off the bucket list”
A magical experience, better than expected, finally getting to see the movie set in person after years of watching the films and reading the books. Driver Grant was a great host throughout.
“A perfect small group tour of Hobbiton with a fountain of…”
An exceptional tour guide, comfortable vehicle, and enjoyable commentary throughout the journey, plus plenty of information on other Auckland tours delivered with a friendly, family feel. A thoroughly enjoyable tour that comes highly recommended.
“Grant made the trip extraordinary!”
A great way to spend a day in Auckland, with guide Grant going above and beyond to make it memorable, educational and fun. Highly recommended.
“Magical day to Hobbiton with help of our tour guide Grant!!!”
A wonderful day trip to Hobbiton with guide Grant, who was full of insight on Auckland, New Zealand and the movie set, attentive and well-mannered, and made sure everyone in the group got to know each other and take photos together. Stops included a scenic photo opportunity and a local ice cream spot, and Grant finished with helpful tips for the rest of the Auckland stay.
“Hobbiton set trip”
A really lovely tour with guide Grant, who was friendly and hospitable throughout. The van was comfortable, and the reviewer would likely book again.
“Entertaining and informative experience”
The bus was a little late but that didn't detract from the trip, thanks to driver Lance, whose local and Maori-folklore stories on the scenic drive were entertaining and informative. He gave clear directions before the on-site Hobbiton tour and was there right on schedule afterward, plus made a stop for local Tip Top ice cream on the way home. A highly recommended experience overall.
“Amazing trip to Hobbiton”
The bus ran a little late but a morning courtesy call meant there was no cause for concern. Guide Lance was helpful and good-humored with the whole group, and the tour was well organized from pickup through to tickets already sorted and meeting back up at the pub afterward. Definitely recommended for visitors to Auckland.
“Delightful!”
The guide made sure the small group of passengers got to know each other early on, encouraging introductions during the comfortable drive and keeping everyone informed about life and the economy in New Zealand along the way. Hobbiton itself speaks for itself, and the small-group format made for easier logistics and friendlier conversations. Highly recommended for travelers to Auckland.
“Best part of our short layover in NZ”
A group of avid Lord of the Rings fans enjoyed this immensely, with pickup going smoothly as planned. Guide Lance was an enthusiastic storyteller who kept the small group of ten comfortable with air conditioning and water, entertaining them with stories throughout the journey. He prepared the group well for the Hobbiton tour, checked in on them during the visit, and even dropped them directly at their lodging afterward. Highly recommended.
“Great day at the Shire and some more.”
Expectations for the Hobbiton trip were fully met, helped along by an excellent driver-guide, Richard, who shared plenty about the country along the way. He took backroads instead of the expressway to show more of the real New Zealand, and rounded off the day with a drop at his favorite restaurant with perfect timing. Both the company and Richard come highly recommended.
“Super amazing experience!!”
One of the most amazing experiences the reviewer has had, with a knowledgeable and personable guide and sights that exceeded expectations. Extremely satisfied and would love to return.
“Just perfect!!”
The tour met expectations from start to finish, with an accommodating driver who shared plenty of information about the country and the Lord of the Rings films along the way. The movie set itself exceeded expectations, and the company is recommended for any of its tours.
“Brilliant day”
A brilliant day with a guide who patiently answered questions and took photos for everyone in the group using their own cameras. Thoroughly recommended.
“A great day.”
A great day from the very first phone call, with a friendly, professional and good-value company, nice vehicles, and knowledgeable guides. Driver Lance was a great, cheeky character, and the company even catered for a baby with a safety seat, making it an enjoyable day for the whole family and friends group.
“One of the highlights of our New Zealand trip”
A group of six was picked up around 9:45 by driver Simon in a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter van, with a stop along the way to stretch legs. At Hobbiton, a guide led the group through the hobbit holes explaining the movie set and special effects, with plenty of photo opportunities, before ending at the Green Dragon for a welcome cool drink on a hot day. One of the highlights of the New Zealand trip, with Simon friendly and accommodating throughout — worth it even for those who aren't big Lord of the Rings fans.
“Fantastic trip!”
Everything ran like clockwork, with guide Lance being knowledgeable and full of stories throughout the drive. The Hobbiton visit was also amazing, with Lance meeting the group at the Green Dragon and taking extra photos.
“Great service!”
Guide Grant was on time, friendly and knowledgeable, taking detours off the highway to scenic lookouts not otherwise seen. When the reviewer felt unwell, he went above and beyond to make sure they were comfortable and their needs were met. Highly recommends this company again.
“Exactly as I had hoped.”
A longtime fan of the books and films, eager to see the set in person and not disappointed. Pickup was from the Hilton on Princess Wharf, with a delightful drive through the countryside learning about the land along the way. Hobbiton itself was simply amazing and inspiring.
“Memorable Experience”
Guide Martin was informative about Auckland and kept the long ride entertaining. The whole process, from hotel pickup through the Hobbiton queue to drop-off, was smooth. Definitely recommended.
“Perfect trip”
An overall perfect experience, with driver Simon and an excellent tour guide making this 'unexpected journey' one the reviewer would definitely recommend.
“Amazing Service for Hobbiton Tour”
Guide Melissa couldn't have been better — prompt, informative and fun, pointing out sights while LOTR movies played during the drive out. A great time that's recommended to anyone interested.
“Hobbiton Small Group Day Trip”
A great, convenient way to see Hobbiton without a car, with guide Martin handling every detail from hotel pickup to drop-off, sharing stories about the area and providing water, sunscreen and hats. At Hobbiton, guide Dan offered plenty of details about the LOTR and Hobbit productions. On the way back, Martin arranged photo and bathroom stops plus an ice cream break, and offered suggestions for other things to do in Auckland.
“Day Trip to Hobbiton”
Chose Cheeky Kiwi after comparing Hobbiton tour options and wasn't disappointed. Guide and driver Martin ran everything smoothly, from pickup through the drive with water and snacks provided, interesting commentary, and a scenic photo stop. The tour of the Shire itself was phenomenal, and the return drive included well-timed bathroom breaks. A fantastic day, highly recommended for anyone deciding how to get to Hobbiton.
“A must see!”
Long-time fans of LOTR and The Hobbit, thrilled to finally visit the movie set. Guide and driver Grant did a great job entertaining the group with interesting information about Auckland and Hobbiton during the drive there — an unforgettable experience.
“Recommended trip”
Excellent service and response from this travel agency, easily five stars, with a tour guide who provided excellent service throughout.
“Hobbits”
A great tour guide both on the set and during the commute, with a few stopovers along the way. Water, sunscreen and hats were provided, which turned out to be much needed.
“A wonderful experience”
Driver and guide Grant was a fount of information during the drive from Auckland to Hobbiton, taking a scenic route on the way back. At Hobbiton, guide Jacky was extremely knowledgeable and kept a lively group well organized, sharing fascinating details about the painstaking construction of the set. An excellent tour overall, with Hobbiton looking especially beautiful in full bloom and never feeling over-commercialized despite the crowds.
“Excellent time, better than I expected”
Guide Andre was amazing — friendly, punctual, safe and informative, keeping the tour on schedule throughout. The time at Hobbiton exceeded expectations, and Andre made sure the whole group had a great time, right down to meeting the specific drop-off schedule at the end.
“AMAZING MAGICAL PLACE”
Not much of a Lord of the Rings fan beforehand, but still found it quite an experience. The tour guide was amazing, sharing behind-the-scenes facts and giving her full attention to every person on the tour.
“Hobbiton adventure”
After a mixed-up morning, the tour turned out great, with Mike proving very knowledgeable about the surrounding areas and treating the group to ice cream afterward — a perfect end to an amazing day.
“Great vistas”
The tour guide was very good, full of personality and willing to help get photos of the beautiful scenery along the way.
“Hobbiton day tour”
A great trip with Cheeky Kiwi, with guide Grant very knowledgeable about the local history and the Hobbiton tour.
“Day Tour in Hobbiton”
Guide and driver Lance was friendly, entertaining and informative throughout the journey. Absolutely recommends Cheeky Kiwi Travel for anyone planning a tour in Auckland.
“"I'm going on an adventure"”
Visiting Hobbiton had been on the bucket list for years, and the place itself lived up to it, feeling like being in the movies without a fake movie-set vibe thanks to the extraordinary work behind it. The guides were nice and knowledgeable, and there's a complimentary drink included at the end of the tour. Guide and driver Lance made the trip to Hobbiton pleasant and easy, filled with interesting stories about New Zealand culture and history.
“A great tour with Melissa!”
A fantastic time on the tour from Auckland to Hobbiton, with guide Melissa engaging and entertaining, making the journey fly by. The videos played in the minibus were an interesting touch, and for the price, this tour is highly recommended.
“Amazing tour with Melissa”
Booked this tour to make the most of a few spare days in Auckland without needing to arrange transport separately. The small group had guide Melissa, who was absolutely amazing — knowledgeable, funny, a great photographer, and generous with snacks and water, plus an ice cream stop on the way home. Highly recommends this tour, especially if lucky enough to get Melissa as a guide.
“Cheeky Kiwi Travel - Hobbiton movie set”
Really enjoyed the Hobbiton movie set experience with Cheeky Kiwi Travel. Guide Louis was kind and shared plenty of information before arriving at the site.
“Fantastic day tour!”
Arrived in Auckland after a cruise and was pleasantly surprised by this day tour. Guide Melissa gave the group of eleven great historic background on the drive to Hobbiton, and the level of detail on the tour was impressive. A leisurely drive back allowed time to enjoy a final evening in Auckland with dinner and a stroll along the waterfront.
“Really nice but too short”
A long drive there and back for what felt like too short a visit, missing seeing all the characters.
“Excellent time”
Guide Grant was fantastic, sharing plenty of trivia and local knowledge for an excellent time going through the Hobbiton set.
“Perfect day”
A wonderful day made unforgettable by guide Grant, whose local knowledge and random trivia made it fun for everyone.
“Simply amazing!”
Entertained and informed from pickup to drop-off. The visit to Hobbiton was amazing, especially notable since the reviewer had never even seen a Lord of the Rings movie but went along for their spouse's sake. Guides Andre and Louise went above and beyond, making this a highly recommended, well-priced tour.
“Hobbiton first tour”
Guide/driver Melissa was punctual, friendly and informative. Being on the first tour of the day meant they beat the crowds for photos, and the reviewer recommends this tour and driver especially for early risers.
“Good day”
A guide named Grant drove the reviewer and one other guest to Hobbiton, sharing stories about Auckland and New Zealand along the way, then handed them off to the official on-site Hobbiton guide for the movie-set tour before driving them back afterward.
“Honeymoon Visit to hobbiton”
Their UK-born driver Julie gave engaging commentary on New Zealand trivia like silage, lambs and volcanic soil, and set them up well for the visit. The early 6am pickup meant snacks and a keychain, and being first onto the Hobbiton set.
“Perfect day! Highly recommend cheeky kiwi!”
The reviewer did two separate Cheeky Kiwi tours during their New Zealand trip; the Hobbiton tour with guide Dane was excellent, and Dane went above and beyond, making them feel like part of the family. Highly recommends Cheeky Kiwi for exploring New Zealand.
“Awesome tour and entertaining guide”
Guide/driver Andrei was enthusiastic, friendly and knowledgeable, arriving on time for the early departure toward Matamata. He let the group grab coffee en route and shared plenty of insight about Hobbiton, Auckland and New Zealand, making for a memorable, fun experience.
“Great tour poor transportation”
The 12-seater minibus was cramped, especially for larger or taller passengers, so the ride wasn't as comfortable as advertised. The guide, food and Hobbiton tour itself were great, though the gift shop felt overly commercial; the reviewer suggests booking the earlier departure to avoid rush-hour traffic on the way back.
“Highly recommend it”
A small, friendly and accommodating tour group with plenty of information about New Zealand and Auckland shared along the way. Even booking last minute still got a great experience.
“Adequate Transport to Wonderful Movie Set”
Pickup ran a little late in an older, unmarked van, and the driver wasn't quite up to the standard of another guide the reviewer had heard about. At Hobbiton the group joined others on a large bus for a knowledgeable, funny guided tour of the set, though the gift-shop stop felt rushed and one souvenir later turned out cheaper on Amazon.
“Entertaining Tour”
Picked up from their hotel in a large van and taken to the movie set, where an engaging, informative guide made for a great time seeing Hobbiton.
“Great tour driver/host”
Driver/host Lance was knowledgeable and fun to be with, and the reviewer highly recommends both him and Cheeky Kiwi.
“Fun & informative trip to Hobbiton”
Guide Lance was friendly, helpful and knowledgeable about the areas around Auckland and New Zealand history, and the Hobbiton visit itself was fantastic, with a few enjoyable stops on the way back. Lance also went out of his way to return a jacket left in the van to the hotel afterward.
“A lovely trip to Hobbiton”
Went on the 6am tour from Auckland and didn't regret the early start — being on the very first tour of Hobbiton meant no crowds in their photos or views.
“Excellent tour and Guide”
The guide was friendly, helpful and professional, pickup was on time, and even though the group ran a bit late they never felt rushed. Clear instructions throughout meant the reviewer would book with Cheeky Kiwi again.
“Amazing time!!! Wonderful guide!!”
Despite an early start and mediocre weather, the tour was excellent — guide Louise was spectacular and friendly, and the group got a snack, water and a small souvenir. Being first onto the set meant no photobombing, and all the guides were knowledgeable.
“What a Magical Place”
Found Hobbiton a magical, beautifully presented place that felt like stepping into a fairy tale, praising how well organised and unrushed the visit felt and recommending it even to people who aren't fans of the films.
“A very enjoyable trip with a great guide”
A punctual pickup and comfortable ride (despite bumpy New Zealand roads) with driver/guide Louise, who shared interesting stories on the way to and from Hobbiton and stopped for ice cream at a favourite spot. The smaller group size made for a relaxed, personal visit, and the well-organised movie-set tour was great fun; would book with Cheeky Kiwi again.
“Best trip ever”
Hobbiton wasn't originally on their itinerary, but a fellow traveller helped them get two seats on this small 10-passenger tour. The driver was courteous and knowledgeable, arranged access to a gift shop not open to everyone, and got them back in time for another commitment — a wonderful, uncrowded experience.
“Hobbiton Day Visit”
A genuinely excellent, down-to-earth guide (believed to be Lance) gave an in-depth tour covering New Zealand history along with a stop for ice cream, and the Hobbiton visit itself was a must-do regardless of familiarity with Lord of the Rings. Poor weather didn't dampen the day, especially with a stop at the Green Dragon Inn.
“Tour and driver”
Driver Louise was great from pickup to drop-off, pointing out sights along the way and stopping for pictures and ice cream, with a warm, personable manner throughout.
“Awesome Trip - A Must Do”
Driver/guide Jack made the drive to the site fly by with his informative commentary, and on-site guide Danilo was fantastic and entertaining, making the visit worthwhile even for those not deeply familiar with the films. A must-do when visiting Auckland.
“Hobbiton Movie Set Day Tour”
A fantastic experience on the Hobbiton Movie Set Day Tour, with driver Tanya sharing New Zealand history and stopping at a couple of scenic lookout points along the way. Highly recommended.
“Wonderful day with wonderful guide”
Driver Jack made the day wonderful, chatting about the local area and history throughout — a great, low-stress way to get to Hobbiton and meet other travellers.
“Wonderful trip!”
A great tour to Hobbiton with a few lovely photo stops along the way. Guide Lance was knowledgeable and generous, offering travel tips, taking their photos at the set, sharing his phone number for further help, and even helping with luggage and a lift to the car-rental place.
“Lovely trip and excellent guide!”
Guide Tanya was friendly, knowledgeable and full of tips about Auckland, Maori culture and more, on top of great commentary about Hobbiton and the other stops en route.
“Must See for Tolkien & LOTR Fans”
An enjoyable trip with knowledgeable, enthusiastic host Tania, taking in the countryside and towns on the way to and from Hobbiton. The movie-set tour itself was a highlight, with well-kept grounds and plenty of photo opportunities.
“Lance lived up to the name”
Guide Lance picked them up from their Auckland hotel in a small van and gave informative, entertaining commentary throughout, including plenty about sheep and dairy farming. Hobbiton itself was great, but it was Lance's stops and stories that made the day special enough to consider booking with the company again.
“Amazing Adventure!”
Hobbiton was a dream trip for the reviewer's husband, and driver Kreigh made it even better with entertaining commentary on Hobbiton, Matamata and New Zealand. Everything was well organised and friendly, and they loved seeing the working sheep and dairy farm with its sweeping views, the Shire and the Green Dragon Inn.
“Amazzing!! Tour was perfect!”
Wanted a tour that picked them up locally in Auckland, made Hobbiton the highlight, and showed some extras along the way — and this delivered. Guide Jack was excellent, sharing information about New Zealand and stopping for ice cream on the return.
“Once You Have Seen Four Hobbit Holes You Have Seen 'em All”
A well-run but regimented tour, with a tight bus schedule, large crowds, and strict guide instructions limiting time at each stop, even the free drink. Still, an impressive site — a hillside farm transformed into a landmark despite appearing on screen for only about 12 minutes in the first film.
“Hobbiton is beautiful, great day out!”
A punctual 10am pickup with manager/driver Michael, who got everyone settled quickly, and host Alice made for an interesting, well-run visit to Hobbiton with a good atmosphere overall.
“A lovely daytrip”
Took the easy day trip to Hobbiton on their hotel concierge's recommendation, for a reasonable price and a reasonable 10am pickup. Guides Tracey and Louise were welcoming, friendly and knowledgeable, with Louise's enthusiasm for New Zealand shining through.
“A very memorable day”
A memorable day with driver Mark, who knew everything about the local area and New Zealand, welcomed questions, and stopped for ice cream on the return. He also went out of his way to pick them up at their apartment to accommodate their 90-year-old mother — highly recommended.
“Must-see for LOTR fans”
A must-visit for Lord of the Rings fans, with the guide sharing plenty of interesting facts about the filming locations and the tricks and techniques used during production.
“Everything my size”
Bussed out to the farm site on a warm day and walked the set in small groups spaced ten minutes apart, with the guide quizzing them about each film scene along the way. Finished at the Green Dragon Inn with cider and a muffin — a pricey but memorable, once-in-a-lifetime visit.
“brings hobbiton to life”
A fun tour with guide Kreig, who gave good commentary on the bus, and enjoyed seeing the well-maintained hobbit holes and gardens.
“'Top Notch' Trip with an Awesome Guide!”
Cheeky Kiwi was the clear choice for visiting Hobbiton, with guide Tonia knowledgeable not just about Hobbiton's history but also the places passed on the drive to and from Auckland — friendly, knowledgeable and genuinely caring toward guests.
“A brilliant visit to Hobbiton with Cheeky Kiwi”
A smooth experience from online booking through hotel pickup, the Hobbiton visit and drop-off, in a comfortable minibus with water and snacks provided. Guide Mike was fun and informative on the drive, and the reviewer felt well looked after throughout — strongly recommended.
“Great guide!”
Guide Lance was helpful, personable and knowledgeable, sharing plenty about New Zealand on the way out and stopping for ice cream on the way back.
“The trip can definitely be recommended.”
The highlight of their Sydney-Auckland cruise stop was the Hobbiton visit, with a lovely driver/guide named Lance and the full Lord of the Rings-inspired experience — highly recommended.
“Most Affordable Trip to Hobbiton, with an Excellent Guide!”
After researching budget options for reaching Hobbiton from their Auckland hotel, chose Cheeky Kiwi for the schedule and small group size. Guide Richard was wonderful, stopping for coffee and a scenic lookout, sharing plenty of New Zealand history and culture along the way, timing arrival perfectly, and taking a different, scenic route back.
“Great experience. Great guide.”
Guide Melissa was warm and friendly with a small group of about ten, and after the Hobbiton visit took them to a lake and for ice cream on the way back, sharing local stories along the way — everyone left with a smile.
“One of the best”
Guide Simon was knowledgeable and entertaining, and Hobbiton itself was a wonderful, well-worthwhile place to visit.
“Day tripper to Hobbiton & ride in countryside”
A well-organised day trip with a punctual, engaging driver who shared stories about the local area at several stops, including a well-liked rural rest stop with real coffee. The Hobbiton visit was good, though the on-site guide there wasn't quite up to the standard of the drive itself, and the driver was quieter on the return leg.
“Really well organized tour to Hobbiton”
A professionally organised tour with snacks and drinks provided, and a guide who did a great job sharing New Zealand's culture and making sure everyone got the most out of the day.
“A day not to forget at Hobbiton, enabled by Cheeky Kiwi Travel.”
Guide Lance was punctual, friendly, funny and knowledgeable, and the group enjoyed a relaxed coffee stop at the Shire's Rest Cafe before a well-organised guided tour of the Shire, with plenty of time for photos, and a timely return to the hotel.
“We would have liked to give 5 points...”
The tour itself — driver, organisation and Hobbiton experience — was great, but the van was packed to its 11-passenger capacity, making the long ride uncomfortably tight, especially for older travellers, which the reviewer felt undermined its billing as more of a private tour.
“WoW years wow”
A wonderful day, with the driver/guide sharing lots of interesting New Zealand history en route, a good meal afterward, and a great on-site guide at Hobbiton — an all-round enjoyable experience with driver Damien.
“Fab trip with Kreig to Hobbiton”
Hobbiton itself was great fun, but it was driver/guide Kreig who made the two-hour ride memorable, sharing facts, videos and getting each passenger to introduce themselves, sparking conversation among the group.
“Great ride with Kraig, tour at Hobbiton”
Driver Kraig was friendly and engaging, happy to answer all sorts of questions along the way. The Hobbiton visit itself was great, with the hobbit holes, village and a drink at the Green Dragon Inn a highlight, though it was crowded; snacks were a bit light, but everyone got a keychain.
“Had an amazing day”
Driver Mel was friendly and shared a bit of Kiwi slang and lifestyle along the way, and Hobbiton itself was great for Lord of the Rings fans, though you need to move quickly to get photos in the hobbit holes.
“A Day Well Spent”
The Hobbiton Movie Set tour itself was excellent, but the reviewer's family especially praised guide/driver Melissa for being warm and welcoming, including a bonus stop at a scenic lakeview area and an ice-cream break on the return drive.
“Wonderful tour”
Booked this tour for a hassle-free way to see Hobbiton during a short two-day visit, and Cheeky Kiwi delivered — guide Melissa was knowledgeable, friendly and kind, making for a highly recommended experience.
“Super Knowledgeable and Fun tour Guide!”
Picked up a little late from the 6am start, but the driver kindly circled back for them. The guide shared plenty of interesting facts about Auckland and New Zealand, got them to the Hobbiton Movie Set with time to spare, and the clean bus came with water and snacks — would use this company again.
“Great Tour Guide”
Guide Kreig made the trip unforgettable, narrating the site's history, pointing out the best spots, and offering tips for things to do beyond Hobbiton in Auckland — an educational and fun day.
“REMARKABLE DAY”
A dream come true, with a friendly guide sharing plenty of interesting information about New Zealand and Maori culture along the way — a fantastic, memorable day at Hobbiton.
“Very Helpful & Accommodating”
Picked them up outside Auckland since their hotel wasn't on the standard list, right on time as promised. Driver Dane was friendly and helpful, offering photo tips and sharing his own story and culture during the ride; notes that despite the "small group" description, the actual Hobbiton set tour is run separately from the Cheeky Kiwi shuttle, though the smaller shuttle group still made for a more personal, well-looked-after experience.
“Auckland to Hobbiton Day Tour”
Dane picked us up and was friendly and welcoming throughout, sharing plenty about Maori culture and New Zealand history along the way. The small van held about ten people, with snacks and water provided and a safe, relaxed ride. Hobbiton itself was beautiful, and Dane took care of our tickets, queuing and meeting arrangements, even stopping for a bathroom break. We'd definitely recommend Cheeky Kiwi Travel.
“Trip from Auckland to Hobbiton”
We went straight from an overnight flight onto this tour and were glad we did - a delightful day seeing Hobbiton. Our guide was great and most of the other passengers were good fun, though the van was quite full with no extra room to spread out. The return trip to Auckland was delayed about an hour by holiday traffic.
“The best option for a tour out to Hobbiton.”
True to their small-group promise, there were only seven of us plus the driver, which made it easy to get to know each other. Along the way we stopped at a lookout with views of the Coromandel Peninsula, and our driver was easygoing about timing and meeting points. The guided walk through Hobbiton itself, run by the Hobbiton company, was genuinely memorable - seeing the hobbit holes felt like being a kid again. Would happily recommend Cheeky Kiwi Travel for a small-group trip to Hobbiton.
“One of the best small group tours we've taken.”
Hobbiton is a fantastic movie set that brings the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films to life. Our driver and guide Mark was outstanding, keeping us engaged the whole way with plenty of information about New Zealand and Auckland (plus a few cheeky asides about Australia). We'd happily book another tour with this company.
“Well organized”
This tour is essentially a return transfer from Auckland combined with the standard Hobbiton Movie Set walking tour. Our van held nine passengers and the roughly two-hour drive took a little longer due to Saturday traffic, but we had time for lunch at the Shire's Rest cafe before our 1:30pm slot. The guided walk itself took about two hours, including a drink at the Green Dragon Inn, and our guide was well organised and waiting for us afterwards with interesting commentary on the drive both ways.
“Cheek Kiwi are the best tour company i have ever used”
Our guide's knowledge of New Zealand was seriously impressive, and pickup and return were right on time in an immaculate vehicle. There were surprise snacks and treats along the way, plus handy tips and photo spot suggestions. This tour was a highlight of our New Zealand trip and we'll only use Cheeky Kiwi from now on.
“Perfect day in Hobbiton”
I was a bit sceptical going in given how uniformly positive the reviews were, but our driver Dane proved them right. He gave us a warm welcome, shared some Maori culture along the two-hour drive, and kept a small group of just five feeling looked after throughout. He even went out of his way to return jackets we'd left behind the next day. Highly recommend Cheeky Kiwi for a Hobbiton day tour.
“MARVELOUS, ENLIGHTENING & FUN TOUR”
We had a wonderful time on our Hobbiton tour, made all the better by our humorous and informative guide, Kreig. It was a comfortable ride with lots of lively chat among our group of five, and Kreig was generous with facts about the area and New Zealand generally. He even acted as our photographer, and the van was clean and pleasant throughout.
“Best Day Trip in Auckland”
Dane and Kreig were fantastic and helped make my friend's birthday extra special. We loved hearing their knowledge of New Zealand history along the way, and Hobbiton itself was absolutely beautiful. Would definitely recommend.
“Fun and Informative Trip To Hobbiton”
Our guides Kreig and Daryl picked us up from our Airbnb and were extremely knowledgeable about New Zealand's culture, history and geography, plus plenty of Lord of the Rings trivia. They kept the long drive entertaining and pointed out great photo spots along the way. It's clear they love what they do, and we'd definitely book with this company again.
“Excellent excursion.”
A very good day excursion, travelling with just a small group of tourists until we reached the property entrance. Spending the whole day meant we had time to see all corners of this beautiful village. Recommended.
“10/10 Day!”
A brilliant day doing the Hobbiton tour - being in a smaller group meant we were never rushed. Our guide Lance was knowledgeable about both Auckland and the films, flexible with pickup and drop-off, and shared some lesser-known facts. He even arranged extra time on set and pointed out great photo spots we'd otherwise have missed.
“very good day tour”
Our driver and guide Lance picked us up right on time in a comfortable bus and shared plenty of facts about the region and New Zealand along the way. There was a nice stop for local cheese and coffee en route to Hobbiton. The visit itself is well worth it, especially for fans, and the on-site guide shared interesting filmmaking details - all in all a splendid day.
“Most excellent guide/driver”
Kreig was prompt, personable and clearly knowledgeable about the North Island's history, which made the trip to Hobbiton genuinely enjoyable rather than a long slog. He was also understanding about the need for regular rest stops along the way.
“This was a great trip!”
Our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly and kept the long bus ride entertaining. The snacks along the way were a nice touch, as was a small gift at the end. Hobbiton itself was amazing and worth visiting whether or not you're a Lord of the Rings fan.
“Great tour guide!”
Our guide Craig was friendly, knowledgeable and endlessly patient with questions. He made a mini stop on the way to Hobbiton for a lovely sunrise view and shared some fun trivia about the place. Travelling in a small group rather than a big bus made a real difference, and we'd happily book with Craig and Cheeky Kiwi again.
“One not to miss!”
A fantastic trip - our guide Mark went above and beyond with door-to-door pickup and drop-off and a welcome bottle of water. His commentary on the New Zealand landscape along the way was engaging, and Hobbiton itself was a delightfully detailed set. Definitely bring a camera for a great day out.
“Day trip”
A great trip with good snacks and interesting commentary on the drive to Hobbiton. Our driver Lance gave us a helpful rundown of what to expect on the guided tour and left time afterwards to browse the gift shop before heading back to Auckland. Would book with this company again.
“Amazing!!!”
A great trip from start to finish, with a knowledgeable and reliable guide. Hobbiton itself is the kind of place you don't want to leave.
“Fantastic Day Out”
Big thanks to our driver and host Mark, who made the journey really enjoyable. The Hobbiton Movie Set tour itself was memorable, with friendly, knowledgeable guides on site and a drink at the Green Dragon Inn to finish. The whole family had a great day and we'd recommend it.
“Awesome , so good and great helpful people”
My original time slot got cancelled, and when I called to sort it out the team went out of their way to arrange a hotel pickup for me rather than making me travel to their default meeting point. The tour itself was awesome, and Marc looked after us really well throughout. Worth booking directly through their website.
“Great trip, would recommend”
Our guide Alicia was excellent and informative, and with just two of us in the group it felt like a private tour. The van had USB charging ports and played the Lord of the Rings films on the way to and from Hobbiton, and we got back with plenty of time to spare.
“Prompt and Professional”
Pickup from our hotel was right on time, and water and the Hobbit movies were provided on the drive. The van was comfortable and our driver was fun and courteous - we'd use this company again.
