Travelling to New Zealand wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Hobbiton movie set now would it? The perfect tourist destination will have you discovering Middle Earth, learning about Hobbits and soaking up the beautiful countryside of New Zealand. The Hobbiton movie set is a magical day out for both fans and those who don’t even know what a hobbit is – yep, that was me.
Magic in Matamata
The magic starts in Matamata, a beautiful rural town located in the North Island of New Zealand. To purchase your ticket, head to the Hobbiton inspired I-Site centre. Here you will be greeted by friendly staff and an array of tourist activity ideas. Tickets will cost 79 NZD, approx. 51 USD. Evening dinner tours are also available for 190 NZD, approx. 123 USD.
With tours running every 45 minutes, you have plenty of options as to when to book. However, I would advise booking early as places fill up quickly. Also, do be aware that it is best to arrive 15 minutes before your departure time.
During your Hobbiton coach ride, you are sure to be gushing over the beautiful countryside as you are driven through Waikato farmland.
Let the tour begin
The scenic drive is sure to have amazed you, but now nestled in the 8 km, approx. 5 mi, family run farm, you have reached the Hobbiton movie set tour.
Greeted by a Hobbiton tour guide, (and let me say - an absolute Hobbit pro), you and your group will be escorted through the incredible set. Viewing Hobbit holes is by far a fantastic highlight of the tour, and being filled with knowledge on how they were made is absolutely mind blowing. After taking a few selfies, you will be guided to the party tree. Supposedly a popular scene in the film, the true Hobbit fans get incredibly excited which creates an amazing atmosphere.
Note if you are under 5ft, you may even get called a Hobbit – yep, short people problems.
Exploring the wild gardens
Walking amongst the Hobbit holes, you are surrounded by an enchanting garden. Filled with delicate flowers and exquisite accessories, the 12 acre site is absolutely astounding. Vegetable patches and gardening tools are also dotted around which gives a real sense of authenticity.
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Leading the way to beautiful view
Continuing on, and not exactly a ‘hidden’ gem, you will be stopped as you walk over the double arched bridge to soak up the view. With the sun glistening down on the lake, you will really feel a sense of magic as this bridge is the perfect position for a panoramic view of the set.
As you wait for the group to gather, your tour guide fills you with more trivia and fun facts. Whether you appreciate the sheer detail that has gone into the set, or the stories behind creating it, you are guaranteed to be impressed.
Drink up at the Green Dragon Inn
After 2 hours, your tour is sadly coming to an end. However, your tour would not be complete without a drink or two in the fantastic replica of the Green Dragon Inn. You will be given a choice of complimentary drinks, presented in fantastic china cup of either a Hobbiton cider or ginger beer – both equally delicious.
Inside the Green Dragon Inn, the interior is so unique and beautiful. With an incredibly homely feel, food is available with a small, but tasty menu.
Take a little bit of magic home
If the memory of the tour is not enough, why not get a little bit spendy in the Shire Store. With memorabilia and gifts galore, resisting may be a challenge. If you’re feeling hungry, there is also the option of having a snack in the Shire’s Rest Café.
Sadly your Hobbiton Movie Set tour has come to an end and you will be driven back to Matamata. An absolutely fantastic experience, it is the perfect tourist destination for everyone!
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