The Hobbiton Movie Set makes use of a significant filming location for the iconic movie trilogy of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit to bring the film adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s books to life. The experience consists of a 2-hour walking tour through the various hills containing caves and homes of hobbits, the small creatures from the movies. Feel as though you’re in the film as you clamber up and down this rolling terrain.
As you walk around the large open-air set, chat with the guides about the movies and gather some insider tips. Venture behind the scenes and learn how the houses were built in different sizes. Some are small enough for the fictional hobbits, while others have been constructed large enough for their human actor counterparts to enter.
The set lies on a 12-acre (5-hectare) plot of land that is part of the historic Alexander family sheep farm, in view of the scenic Kaimai Ranges.
Relax and appreciate the tranquility and whimsy of the setting at the Shires Rest Café or the Green Dragon Inn before or after your tour. You can drink a Hobbit Southfarthing beer, cider or ginger beer, which are brewed on site. Pick up souvenirs and gifts from the store beside the café. Occasional events relating to the franchise are set up on this part of the set.
Make sure to book in advance to ensure a space on the tour. Private events can be organized here as well. Imagine having your wedding in this storybook setting.
The Hobbiton Movie Set is just southwest of Matamata, on the North Island of New Zealand. From Auckland, drive south for 100 miles (160 kilometers) to get here in about 2 hours. Leave your car in the parking lot at the Shire’s Rest. While you’re in the area, visit some of the neighboring attractions, such as the Matamata i-SITE Visitor Information Centre, the Matamata Racing Club and Lake Te Koo Utu.
