We did Great Sights' "Rotorua Sights and Hobbiton Movie Set" full-day tour (Roturua to Auckland). What a day! (This would probably closer to 4.5 stars to me, but I'm rounding up since it really was an amazing day.) The drivers were warm, friendly, and efficient. The directions and timing for different activities and transfers were clear, even for when we waited between being dropped off by one bus and picked up by another. Each of the guides we had at each of the locations were excellent. And the three sights were amazing -- from the historic culture of Te Puia to the fictional culture of Hobbiton, with natural history and beauty showcased through those and throughout the Rainbow Springs.
Really, my only criticism is that I would've preferred more time at all three sights. That said though, a day was enough to get a solid feel for each of them. read more