05 Mar 2025
We had a flawless 3day trip and saw everything we wanted to see. Our guide Chris on the way there was so knowledgeable and funny telling us everything we would be doing on the way. At Hobiton it was just a marvelous tour, Ty made the beautiful gardens and Hobit set come to life as he told what happened in key points around the hills while walking. We then went on into Rotorua for lake viewing and Whakarewarewa where we had a good buffet lunch and geyser tour that took us right next to the geyser. We also saw a habitat of Kiwis (birds) that were under care there. The cultural tour shared the appreciation for the Māori people and their skills for wood carving, baskets and clothing. We arrived at our princess gate hotel, which in itself had a lot of history and several hot pools. The next day was a free day for us and we walked around with plenty to see and shop we booked a spa treatment at the Polynesian hot springs spa which was amazing place to visit. However I do feel it kind of zapped our energy for the evening.
The next day Sandra picked us up at our hotel at 12 noon and drove us to a cute spot where we picked up a bite to eat and then to the Waitoma glow worm tour which was very cool and interesting. We then headed back from to Auckland with Louise, a great driver and we arrived about 6:30 pm. All in all it was just a great time, seamless without any problems at all. Five stars!