Located in Hobbiton, Matamata in the Waikato region of the North Island of New Zealand, the Hobbiton Movie Set has become a popular tourist destination for fans of the popular film trilogy, The Lord of the Rings, and its prequel, The Hobbit.
The Hobbiton Movie Set is a fully operational film set that was first constructed in 1999 for the filming of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. After being dismantled in 2000, the set was rebuilt and reopened to the public in 2002 as a permanent tourist attraction.
Visitors to the set can enjoy guided tours of all the major Hobbiton locations such as Bag End, The Green Dragon Inn, The Mill, and hobbit-holes, as well as a range of other activities such as archery, farm tours, and themed meals.
Getting to the Hobbiton Movie Set
The easiest way to get to the Hobbiton Movie Set is to fly into the nearest airport which is just an hour away in Auckland. From there, you can either rent a car and drive to the set or take a shuttle bus, coach, or tour.
For those visiting from within New Zealand, Hobbiton is easily accessible by car or bus as it is just a two-hour drive from Auckland, one hour from Hamilton and two hours from Rotorua.
Booking a Tour of Hobbiton
The Hobbiton Movie Set is open for guided tours year-round and advance booking is recommended.
Tours of the set start from just NZD$55 per person and include a guided tour of the set and access to all the major locations, as well as the souvenir shop and cafe.
It is important to note that the Hobbiton Movie Set is a fully operational film set and as such, there are restrictions on photography and video recording.
For those looking for a more in-depth experience, there are also extended tours available which include an archery session, behind-the-scenes insights, and a meal at the Green Dragon Inn.
Exploring the Hobbiton Movie Set
Once you’ve arrived at the set, you can explore the many locations featured in the movies. Here are some of the top sights to check out:
- Bag End: Home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins and the setting for the famous ‘There and back again’ scene in The Fellowship of the Ring.
- The Mill: This is the site of the famous party scene in The Fellowship of the Ring.
- The Green Dragon Inn: Stop in for a pint of their signature ale and hobbit-inspired snacks.
- Hobbit-holes: There are over 44 hobbit-holes scattered throughout the set, each elaborately decorated and lit up at night.
- The Party Tree: Located just outside Bag End, this is where Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin first meet Gandalf the Grey.
Aside from the main locations, the grounds of the Hobbiton Movie Set are also home to a variety of activities such as archery, farm tours, and themed meals at the Green Dragon Inn.
For those looking to explore the Shire further, there are also a range of extended tour packages available which include a combination of activities and meals.
Where to Stay Near Hobbiton Movie Set
Those looking to stay near the Hobbiton Movie Set are spoilt for choice, with a range of accommodation options available from lodges and hotels to camping and glamping sites.
- The Green Dragon Inn: Located on the Hobbiton Movie Set itself, the Green Dragon Inn offers visitors a unique stay in the heart of the Shire.
- Hobbiton Movie Set Campground: Located just outside the set, the Hobbiton Movie Set Campground offers affordable tent sites with access to amenities.
- Hobbiton Cottage: For those looking for a more luxurious stay, the Hobbiton Cottage is the perfect option, offering guests a fully-equipped cottage and unique movie set views.
Whether you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings or just looking for an unusual experience, the Hobbiton Movie Set is an unforgettable place to explore. With guided tours, themed activities, and a variety of accommodation options, the set is the perfect destination for any traveler looking for an adventure in Middle-earth.