The Great Waikato Journey
Plan your escape into Waikato’s nature, adrenaline, and storybook wonder.
See, ride, and explore the Waikato on this exciting two-day journey. Cycle the Te Awa River Trail, discover the beauty of Hamilton Gardens, and experience a thrilling jet boat ride before enjoying a relaxing lakeside stay. The adventure concludes with walking the very paths of Bilbo and Frodo with a magical guided Hobbiton Movie Set tour.
Duration
2 days / 1 night
Easy to medium grade
Interest points
Te Awa River Trail, Hamilton Gardens, eBike, Jet Boat, Hidden Lake Hotel + Hobbiton.
Cost
From $765pp
(group pricing applies)
Includes:
Transport, hotel stay, breakfast, entry admission, eBike hire
What’s Included
Private shuttle transfers (shared seats, Day 1)
E-bike hire with helmet & insurance
45-minute Camjet Extreme Jet Boat ride
Entry & self-guided audio tour at Hamilton Gardens
1-night boutique Hidden Lake Hotel stay with cooked breakfast
Guided Hobbiton Movie Set tour with a complimentary drink
Important: Meals not listed as included are self-funded.
Pricing
2 adults: $765pp
Got a group?
Reach out to us for a group discount
Itinerary
Day 1
9:00 Shuttle: Velodrome to Ngaruawahia
Relax on a scenic shuttle ride to the start of the Te Awa River Trail. Driver commentary highlights local history and river sights.
9:30 Arrival & E-Bike Induction
Get fitted with e-bikes and a safety briefing to prepare for the ride.
9:45 Te Awa River Ride (Ngaruawahia → Hamilton Gardens, 26 km)
Cycle along the scenic Waikato River, past native bush, farmlands, and art installations. Suitable for most fitness levels with rest spots.
12:00 Lunch at Hamilton Gardens Café (Self-Funded)
Recharge with fresh, locally sourced meals and coffee in beautiful surroundings.
13:00 Hamilton Gardens Self-Guided Audio Tour
Discover themed gardens from around the world, including Italian Renaissance and Japanese contemplation gardens.
15:00 Camjet Extreme Jet Boat Ride (Hamilton Gardens → Cambridge, 45 min)
Thrilling river spins, high speeds, and wildlife sightings along the Waikato River. Life jackets and safety briefing included.
15:45 Shuttle: Cambridge to Velodrome
Return to the Velodrome after your adrenaline adventure.
16:00 Self-Drive: Check-In at Hidden Lake Hotel
Relax lakeside in boutique comfort. Enjoy stylish rooms and daily cooked breakfast.
Day 2
10:00 Check-Out & Drive to Hobbiton (30 min)
Scenic drive through Waikato’s green hills to The Shire’s Rest entrance.
10:30 Arrive at The Shire’s Rest
Browse the gift shop or grab a coffee before your tour begins.
11:00 Guided Hobbiton Movie Set Tour (2.5 hr)
Explore 12 acres of hobbit holes, the Party Tree, Bag End, and learn behind-the-scenes filming stories. Includes a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn.
13:30 Tour Ends
Optional shopping or relaxing before onward travels.
Itinerary order or timing may vary slightly depending on operational conditions and availability.
Italian Garden at Hamilton Gardens
