Hobbiton in New Zealand 2024-2025

Hobbiton, located in the lush countryside of Matamata, New Zealand, is a well-preserved movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies. Originally constructed as a temporary set, it was later rebuilt as a permanent attraction, allowing visitors to step into the world of Middle-earth. The site draws thousands of tourists each year, offering a glimpse into the iconic village of the Shire.

Visiting Hobbiton

To visit Hobbiton, you must book a guided tour in advance, especially during the peak summer months from December to February. These tours offer an immersive experience, including a guided walk through the set, showcasing 44 Hobbit holes, the Mill, the double-arched bridge, and the Green Dragon Inn.

Activities and Attractions

Visitors can explore the detailed set, take photos of the round-door Hobbit homes, and enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. The site offers themed events such as the Hobbiton Beer Festival, Summer Harvest Festival, and International Hobbit Day celebrations. Additional experiences, like the Behind-the-Scenes Tour, provide insights into the set’s construction and the filming process.

Admission

The Hobbiton Movie Set Tour costs NZD 120 for adults, NZD 60 for youth aged 11–17, and is free for children under ten (though a ticket is required). This tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including transport from The Shire’s Rest.

For a more unique experience, the Second Breakfast Tour includes breakfast at the Millhouse and is priced at NZD 180 per adult. The Evening Banquet Tour offers a nighttime experience with a feast at the Green Dragon Inn, starting from NZD 230 per adult.

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, private and behind-the-scenes tours are available, with custom pricing.

Family and Accessibility Considerations

Hobbiton is family-friendly, and children are welcome. Strollers are allowed, but it may be challenging to navigate on some paths. Pets are not permitted except for registered service animals. The site accommodates visitors with mobility issues; however, wheelchairs must be non-collapsible due to transportation requirements.

Getting to Hobbiton

Hobbiton is located about 15 minutes from Matamata, a small town in the Waikato region. It is approximately a 2-hour drive from Auckland and a 1-hour drive from Rotorua by car. Visitors can drive to The Shire’s Rest, where parking is available, or take a tour with transfers from Matamata i-SITE.

Infrastructure and Amenities

In terms of infrastructure and amenities, free parking is available at The Shire’s Rest for cars, campervans, and tour buses. For food and dining, the Green Dragon Inn serves themed meals and drinks, while The Shire’s Rest Café offers standard refreshments. Restroom facilities are available at The Shire’s Rest and within the movie set.

Although there is no lodging on-site, visitors can find accommodation options such as hotels, motels, and bed-and-breakfasts in Matamata and the surrounding areas. Please note that picnicking is not permitted inside the set, and overnight camping is not allowed on-site.

Historical Background

The location was selected by director Peter Jackson and his team for its rolling green hills, which closely matched Tolkien’s description of the Shire. Initially built for The Lord of the Rings using temporary materials, the set was reconstructed in 2011 for The Hobbit as a permanent attraction. Today, it remains one of New Zealand’s most visited film locations, drawing both movie fans and travelers eager to experience the beauty of the Waikato region.