In the rolling green farmland of the Waikato region, near the small town of Matamata, Peter Jackson found his Shire. The Hobbiton Movie Set - used in all six Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films - has been preserved as a permanent visitor attraction, and it is magical. Whether you're a Tolkien superfan or just appreciate extraordinary craftsmanship and beautiful scenery, Hobbiton delivers an experience that feels genuinely enchanting. The 44 hobbit holes, the Party Tree, the Green Dragon Inn, and the meticulously maintained gardens create an immersive world that transports you completely - adults grin as widely as children here. Beyond Hobbiton, the Matamata and Waikato region offers gentle rolling farmland, the Waikato River, and small-town New Zealand charm.
Getting There
Hobbiton is located on a private farm at 501 Buckland Road, Matamata - about 170km (2 hours) south of Auckland and 80km (1 hour) from Rotorua. All visits are by guided tour only - you cannot explore independently. Tours depart from the Shire's Rest café (Hobbiton) or from Matamata i-SITE. Many operators run day trips from Auckland and Rotorua.
The Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
The standard guided tour is 2 hours and includes:
- 44 hobbit holes: Each hobbit hole has a uniquely designed round door, garden, letterbox, and props. Bag End (Bilbo and Frodo's home) sits at the top of the hill, with its famous green door and oak tree above. The attention to detail is extraordinary - washing lines, tiny garden tools, fresh produce in windows.
- The Party Tree: The large tree above the party field where Bilbo's 111th birthday party was filmed. Artificial leaves (hand-painted) were added for filming and the tree remains a centrepiece.
- The Mill and Double-arched Bridge: The picturesque stone mill beside the lake is one of the most photographed spots on the set.
- Gardens: The gardens around each hobbit hole are lovingly maintained - flowers, vegetables, herbs, and fruit trees create a picture-perfect English cottage garden feel. A full-time gardening team ensures the set looks camera-ready every day.
- Guides: Enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides share behind-the-scenes stories about filming, set construction, and the actors. The commentary brings the location to life.
The Green Dragon Inn
Every tour ends at the Green Dragon Inn - a fully functioning pub built for the Hobbit films:
- Drinks: Your tour ticket includes a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon - choose from exclusive Hobbiton ales (Amber Ale, Apple Cider, Ginger Beer) or non-alcoholic options. The drinks are brewed exclusively for Hobbiton.
- Interior: The pub interior is extraordinary - a working fireplace, hand-carved wooden furniture, Tolkien-inspired props, and warm lighting create an atmosphere that feels genuinely Middle-earth.
- Evening banquet tours: The premium "Evening Banquet Experience" ($259) includes a sunset tour of the set, followed by a feast at the Green Dragon with a themed menu, live entertainment, and unlimited Hobbiton drinks. It's the ultimate Tolkien fan experience.
The Waikato Region
- Matamata: A quiet farming town with a strong Hobbiton connection - the i-SITE visitor centre has a hobbit hole out front and Lord of the Rings displays. Good cafés and a relaxed small-town feel.
- Waikato River: New Zealand's longest river flows through the region. Kayaking, jet boating, and riverside walks are available near Hamilton.
- Hamilton Gardens: 30 minutes west, Hamilton Gardens is a stunning collection of themed gardens - Italian Renaissance, Japanese, Chinese, Indian, and more. Free entry.
- Waitomo Caves: An hour southwest, the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves are often combined with a Hobbiton visit as a day trip from Auckland. Boat through underground caves lit by thousands of glowworms ($55).
Booking & Prices
- Standard tour: 2 hours, includes Green Dragon drink - $89 adult, $45 child. - Evening banquet: Sunset tour + feast - $259 adult. - First Light Tour: Early morning, smaller groups - $149 adult. - From Auckland: Day trips including transport from $200. - From Rotorua: Half-day trips from $150. - Book online at hobbitontours.com well in advance - the set is New Zealand's most-visited tourist attraction and tours sell out, especially December–February.
Practical Tips
- Tours run rain or shine - the set is beautiful in any weather (rain makes the colours more vivid). - Wear comfortable walking shoes - the terrain is grassy farmland with gentle slopes. - Photography is encouraged - guides will point out the best angles and take group photos. - Allow 3 hours total including check-in, tour, and Green Dragon time. - Combine with Waitomo Caves or Rotorua for a full day trip from Auckland.
AUBIS Tip
: Hobbiton is a must-do for any North Island visitor. Use AUBIS to book your Hobbiton tour alongside Waitomo Caves or Rotorua attractions, and the platform will arrange transport and timing so you make the most of your day.