Hobbiton, New Zealand

we headed inland for a day trip to Hobbiton, the iconic movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, stepping into this perfectly preserved Shire is a magical experience that feels like entering another world.

Our guided tour took us along winding paths past quaint hobbit holes, lush gardens, and the famous Green Dragon Inn, where you can enjoy a refreshing ale or cider. Every detail, from the tiny door handles to the well-tended vegetable gardens, is meticulously crafted to bring Tolkien’s world to life.

Photography lovers will be in heaven — the rolling hills, vibrant greenery, and whimsical homes make every corner picture-perfect. The tour also shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about the movie production, special effects, and how the set was brought to life.

Hobbiton is the kind of experience that delights both young and old. It’s a day of whimsy, history, and cinematic magic that will stay with you long after you leave.

After the whimsy of Hobbiton, we journeyed to the Waitomo Caves, one of New Zealand’s most enchanting natural wonders. Famous for its glowworms, the caves offer a surreal underground experience that feels like stepping into another world.

We began with a guided tour through limestone caverns, where stalactites and stalagmites create dramatic, ancient formations. The highlight, of course, was the glowworm grotto — thousands of tiny lights suspended in the darkness, reflected on the calm underground waters, creating a magical, starry effect.

For adventure seekers, black water rafting adds an exhilarating twist, floating along subterranean rivers beneath the glow of the worms. Photography opportunities abound, though nothing truly captures the wonder of being surrounded by this natural light show in person.

Waitomo Caves is a perfect mix of awe, adventure, and natural beauty. It’s a day trip that leaves a lasting impression, whether you explore by foot, boat, or raft.

2025-02