Top Auckland Whale Watching

It was a great 12 hour tour that even if you’re not a fan of the movie trilogy, you will definitely be pleased and entertained. Our driver Simon was an excellent tour guide who was courteous, friendly, and knowledgeable about New Zealand’s history and sites. He drove us through wonderful countryside settings that gave you a contrast between Auckland city sites and what is in the area just a few hours outside of the city. The lunch items that you can choose from are plentiful and delicious. He even managed to work in a morning coffee break that you could also pick up coffee, a danish or breakfast sandwich on the drive to Hobbiton. The only thing to be aware of that when you tour the glow worm caves after lunch, is that they do not allow photography or videotaping. The approximately 50 minute tour of the caves and boat ride out of the caves is very informative about the life of a glow worm and how the caves came to be discovered and created. Still worth the price of the ticket. Simon also provided countryside driving on the way back to Auckland and we managed to stop for refreshments of fine New Zealand homemade ice cream. I would say this is well worth your consideration and Cheeky Kiwi is first class in their operation. On my return trip to New Zealand I will definitely be booking tours through them.

Great little half day excursion from Auckland. Pick up was just after noon and was on time. We were with Mark and Andy. Mark was guiding and had SO much knowledge. I was honestly shocked that he knew so much about everything. New Zealand, plants, birds, the beach, you name it, he knew it. Great pair of gentlemen. We did the rainforest walk where Mark pointed out literally everything, and then went to Piha beach which is just jaw droppingly beautiful. Black sand with dramatic formations, can't be beat. What a great way to spend an afternoon.

The entire experience was exceptional! Idil (may have misspelled his name) was a great driver and tour guide. The Hobbiton tour was beyond our expectations-informative, immersive, uncrowded, and entertaining). It’s the opposite of a Disney theme park-peaceful, welcoming, with an incredible attention to detail. The cave tour was interesting and unlike anything we’ve ever experienced-very different from other cave tours due to the darkness, quiet boats, and glowing worms above you. Overall, a highly recommended experience.

BOOK THIS TOUR or at least a tour with THIS tour guide/company!!! It was such a blast, the day really flew by. The wineries were stunning and tasteful wines - curated tasting to our palates and a little outside of our "taste bud box" as well. We visited Soljans first. Denise was delightful sharing her knowledge and family history. Hearing of 5 generations and the family ties was heartwarming and I think, came through in the beauty of their wines & port. Oh the port! Yummy! I took a whole bottle home 🤭. I like the little gift shop as well - very reasonable priced. We then visited a black sand beach and could take enough photos of the birds (gannet). Followed by visiting Westbrook winery - with stunning scenery /vineyard. It was rainning so we sat inside which was pretty and cozy as well. Not to mention the step by step tasting session. Another lovely set of 5 wines & fabulous food menu (charcuterie, pizzas, & more). They even allowed us to try some grapes off the vine on our way out. I've saved the best for last, if you've read this far.. rhe tour guide, John, has an astounding depth of wine knowledge! I can't even begin to tell his story - that is for him to tell, so I beg you to ask him because it is truly beyond fascinating! He could go deep into the science or worldly experiences or explain why certain notes appear in a wine due to the growing process. Not to mention he can explain things in simple terms too if needed 😊 I am beyond grateful to have taken this tour and highly recommend it, if you can! Cheers & enjoy!!!

Geoff picked us up, and along the 2.5 hr drive he shared his knowledge of all things New Zealand as a 4th generation Kiwi, with consideration that some of the riders might have just traveled over 25 hrs to get to NZ. Once on the movie set, Andrew was our guide with a wondrous enthusiasm after growing up on set as his father worked on the original movie/set. Walking thru the hobbit 'holes', and the level of detail transports you back to the movies. A brilliant experience that I'm grateful I didn't miss.

It was easy to exchange our vouchers for tickets. Our day was full of clouds and raindrops but the views that we saw and photos that we took were still phenomenal. We could see the weather and clouds coming and going which gave us teasing glimpses of Auckland and its harbour. Do this!