25-28 February 2025

After leaving Arthur’s Pass we flew to Auckland and picked up a rental car. We spent a few days in the Rotorua area, which included touring a couple of glow worm caves and a half day at a Māori village followed by a hangi lunch (meat and vegetables cooked underground utilizing the hot springs).

We found glowworms kind of gross but they look pretty in the dark. 

But the highlight of the last leg of our trip was Hobbiton. It was originally built for the LOTR trilogy and torn down after they finished filming, as sets usually are. However, it was rebuilt for the Hobbiton trilogy and has been maintained and expanded since then as a tourist destination. The incredible attention to detail reminded us a bit of Disney World.

We are on our (very long) way home now, reflecting on a lovely trip. Thanks to everyone for reading!