Hobbiton Movie Set
Step into Middle-earth at the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set, where hobbit holes and rolling hills bring fantasy to life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Hobbiton Movie Set
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Middle-earth at the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set, where hobbit holes and rolling hills bring fantasy to life.
"It's not just a movie set, it's a fairytale brought to life, hidden in the rolling green hills. 
🎯 Book in Advance!
Tours sell out fast. Book your Hobbiton tickets online ahead of time to secure your spot.
🚗 Consider Car Rental
Renting a car offers flexibility, but tours from cities are also available if you prefer not to drive.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Hobbit Holes
Bagshot Row
Wander through the iconic hobbit holes, each with its own unique charm and story. Step inside for a truly immersive experience.
The Green Dragon Inn
The Shire
Enjoy a refreshing drink at the famous Green Dragon Inn, a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere of the Shire.
Bag End
The Shire
See Bilbo Baggins' famous hobbit hole, Bag End, complete with its iconic round door and garden.
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Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tickets in Advance
Consider Transportation Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book in Advance!
Tours sell out fast. Book your Hobbiton tickets online ahead of time to secure your spot. +1
🚗 Consider Car Rental
Renting a car offers flexibility, but tours from cities are also available if you prefer not to drive. +1
☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Water
New Zealand sun can be strong, especially in summer. Stay hydrated and protected.
📸 Capture the Magic
The set is incredibly photogenic. Bring your camera and be ready for stunning shots!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book in Advance!
Tours sell out fast. Book your Hobbiton tickets online ahead of time to secure your spot. +1
🚗 Consider Car Rental
Renting a car offers flexibility, but tours from cities are also available if you prefer not to drive. +1
☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Water
New Zealand sun can be strong, especially in summer. Stay hydrated and protected.
📸 Capture the Magic
The set is incredibly photogenic. Bring your camera and be ready for stunning shots!
🍻 Enjoy a Drink
Your tour includes a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Savor the moment! +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hobbiton for its magical atmosphere and incredible attention to detail, making it feel like stepping into the movies. Enthusiastic guides enhance the experience, and the inclusion of a drink at the Green Dragon Inn is a welcome touch. While some find it pricey, most agree it's a worthwhile visit, especially for fans.
"Pretty awesome experience. Enthusiastic tour guides who bring the story to life. We had the lunch included and it was surprisingly good value and tasty. We were pleased with our experience, although once will be enough for sure. All of the staff were polite and made the day a joy. Recommended."
mgblanchard
"The Hobbiton Movie Set Tour was an amazing experience! Everything was super well-organized and the staff were very friendly and welcoming. Aimee was our guide and she was absolutely fantastic – funny, knowledgeable, and full of great behind-the-scenes stories. The two fully furnished Hobbit holes were a real highlight – incredibly detailed and magical. Highly recommended for any fan or anyone looking for something special in New Zealand!"
LucivarSa
"A must-visit for any Lord of the Rings or Hobbit fan! The set is absolutely stunning and feels just like stepping into the movies. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and engaging, making the entire experience even more enjoyable. A truly memorable and magical visit!"
gopal dj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common ways to get to Hobbiton from Auckland are by booking an organized tour, which often includes transport, or by renting a car. Driving yourself takes approximately 2-2.5 hours. +2
Direct public transport to Hobbiton is limited. InterCity buses go to Matamata, but from there, you'll need a tour or a taxi to reach the movie set, as it's a rural location.
If you drive yourself, you'll park at The Shire's Rest, which is the departure point for the tour buses that take you to the actual movie set. +1
Yes, Hobbiton is accessible from Rotorua. Many tours depart from Rotorua, or you can drive yourself, which takes about 1 hour.
Hobbiton Movie Set is located near Matamata in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. The address is 501 Buckland Road, Hinuera, Matamata 3472, New Zealand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the tour package. Standard tours typically range from NZD $89 for adults. Special events like the Evening Banquet are more expensive. It's best to check the official Hobbiton website for current pricing.
Yes, booking your Hobbiton tickets in advance is highly recommended, as tours frequently sell out. This is especially true for popular times and special events. +1
A standard Hobbiton Movie Set tour includes a guided walk through the set, a visit to the Green Dragon Inn where you receive a complimentary drink, and access to the gift shop and cafe.
You can sometimes find discounted tours through booking websites like BookMe.co.nz, especially for off-peak times or package deals.
Hobbiton Movie Set is generally open daily, with tours running throughout the day. Specific opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The guided walking tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set typically lasts about 2 hours. This includes the time spent at the Green Dragon Inn.
Yes, recent tours now allow visitors to go inside a couple of the hobbit holes, including Bag End, which is a highlight for many visitors.
While fans will appreciate the details most, many non-fans still enjoy Hobbiton for its picturesque setting, charming atmosphere, and the engaging storytelling of the guides. The attention to detail is impressive regardless of your fandom. +1
Hobbiton is located in a region that can experience varied weather. It's often very green due to rainfall, but sunny days enhance the magical atmosphere. Be prepared for potential rain or wind, especially outside of summer. +1
Yes, all visits to Hobbiton Movie Set are by guided tour. Knowledgeable guides lead you through the set, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and insights. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some Hobbiton tour packages include lunch, often at The Shire's Rest cafe or as part of the Evening Banquet tour. You can also purchase food and drinks separately.
At the Green Dragon Inn, you can enjoy a complimentary drink (beer, cider, or non-alcoholic options) and purchase additional snacks and beverages.
Many visitors find the Evening Banquet tour to be a highly worthwhile experience, offering a feast in a hobbit-style setting followed by a lantern-lit tour of the set. It's a premium experience. +1
While 'second breakfast' isn't a formal offering, the cafe at The Shire's Rest serves various meals and snacks, and the Evening Banquet provides a substantial feast.
The Green Dragon Inn serves traditional ales, ciders, and non-alcoholic beverages, including a special Hobbiton brew.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! Key spots include the hobbit holes, Bag End, the iconic Party Tree, and the Green Dragon Inn. The rolling hills provide a beautiful backdrop.
It can be challenging to get photos with very few people, as Hobbiton is a popular attraction. Going during off-peak hours or on a weekday might help.
Drone usage is generally not permitted within the Hobbiton Movie Set to protect the integrity of the set and for visitor safety. Always check current regulations.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be magical, creating a soft glow. Sunny days make the vibrant greens pop, while the Evening Banquet offers a unique, atmospheric lighting.
While there isn't a dedicated photography tour, the standard guided tour allows ample time for photos. The Behind The Scenes tour might offer different perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a tour that includes lunch or snacks, as kids can get hungry exploring. While the set is beautiful, it involves walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are a must. The magic of Hobbiton often captivates children, even those who aren't die-hard Lord of the Rings fans, turning it into a memorable family adventure.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the standard tour includes a drink, consider if you want to add on meals like lunch or the Evening Banquet, as these significantly increase the overall cost. Prioritize what's most important to you – perhaps the tour and the complimentary drink are enough if you're on a tight budget.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider booking the Evening Banquet tour for a truly special experience, with a candlelit dinner and a magical lantern-lit walk through the set. Even a standard tour can be a delightful shared adventure. Imagine yourselves wandering through the Shire, hand-in-hand, and enjoying a quiet drink together at the Green Dragon Inn. It’s a memorable way to create shared stories and capture beautiful photos together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Hobbit Holes
These holes are not just facades; they are built with incredible craftsmanship, designed to look lived-in and authentic. The landscaping team works year-round to maintain the vibrant greenery and blooming flowers, ensuring the Shire looks as picturesque as it does on screen. Walking through Bagshot Row feels like stepping directly into the pages of 'The Hobbit' or 'The Lord of the Rings.'
For many, seeing these hobbit holes is a dream come true, a chance to connect with a beloved fantasy world. The experience is often described as magical and surreal, with visitors marveling at how the set captures the cozy, idyllic essence of hobbit life.
Experiencing the Green Dragon Inn
The interior of the Green Dragon is as charming as its exterior, featuring a cozy fireplace, wooden beams, and rustic decor that perfectly complements the hobbit aesthetic. It’s a place where you can imagine hobbits gathering after a long day, sharing stories and laughter. The pub also serves a selection of snacks and meals, making it a delightful spot to extend your visit.
For those opting for special tours like the Evening Banquet, the Green Dragon Inn plays a central role, serving as the venue for a hearty hobbit-feast. This elevated experience allows guests to dine and drink in the inn under the magical glow of the set's evening lights.
Getting to Hobbiton: The Logistics
If you prefer more independence, renting a car is a popular option. This allows you to explore at your own pace and potentially visit other attractions in the Waikato region. The drive from Auckland takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, and from Rotorua, it's about an hour. Parking is available at The Shire's Rest, the main visitor center, from where tour buses transport you to the actual movie set.
It's important to note that public transport directly to Hobbiton is very limited. While InterCity buses serve Matamata, onward travel to the set is usually via tour operators or taxis. Given the cost of tours, some travelers opt for car rental to manage expenses, especially if traveling in a group.
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