Two timed visits, not one motorway stop
The seven-day North Island route assumes you have rested in Auckland before day one. Drive to Waitomo, choose one cave visit and sleep locally. On day two, drive via Hobbiton to Rotorua. Hobbiton’s Signature Tour from The Shire’s Rest is about 2.5 hours, with arrival at least 20 minutes earlier; add the road legs, lunch and a buffer. The 21-day route includes the Auckland nights within its day count. If you have only one day for both attractions, choose one rather than forcing tight, non-refundable bookings.
Select the actual cave and access arrangements
Waitomo Glowworm Caves is a guided visit of about 45 minutes, with stairs and no photography inside. Ruakuri is a different cave and is the operator’s wheelchair-friendly option; confirm the exact tour and any assistance needed. At Hobbiton, the walking tour covers uneven ground and inclines. Wheelchair users should contact the operator at least 72 hours ahead; its buses do not carry non-folding or electric wheelchairs, so an alternative vehicle arrangement may be necessary. Confirm cancellation terms separately for each booking.
Discover Waitomo · Hobbiton accessibility
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