New Zealand TravelExploring the Real-Life Hobbiton Movie Set in New Zealand
Nestled in the rolling hills of the North Island of New Zealand lies a magical place that has captured the hearts of millions of people around the world. This place is none other than Hobbiton, the real-life movie set of the beloved Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Fans of the books and movies have flocked to this picturesque location to experience the enchanting world of Middle Earth for themselves.
Hobbiton is located on a private farm near the town of Matamata, about a two-hour drive from Auckland. The farm was discovered by Peter Jackson, the director of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies, while he was scouting for locations to film the Shire scenes. The moment he saw the lush green hills and the tranquil lake, he knew that this was the perfect spot to bring J.R.R. Tolkien’s world to life.
The movie set was built in 1999 for the filming of the Lord of the Rings trilogy and was later expanded for the Hobbit trilogy. It consists of 44 hobbit holes, a mill, a bridge, and the iconic Green Dragon Inn. The attention to detail in the construction of the set is truly remarkable. Each hobbit hole is unique, with its own little garden and intricate details such as tiny clotheslines and vegetable patches. The set is surrounded by lush greenery, including over 200 hobbit holes that were planted with real flowers and vegetables.
Visitors to Hobbiton can take a guided tour of the movie set, which lasts about two hours. The tour begins at the Shire’s Rest, a quaint little café and souvenir shop where visitors can grab a bite to eat before or after their tour. From there, a bus takes visitors through the picturesque farmland to the movie set. Along the way, the guide shares interesting facts and behind-the-scenes stories about the making of the movies.
As visitors step into the movie set, they are transported into the world of hobbits, wizards, and dragons. The guide takes them through the hobbit holes, pointing out details and sharing fun facts about each one. Visitors can even peek inside some of the hobbit holes and see the cozy interiors, complete with furniture and decorations. The highlight of the tour is the visit to Bag End, the home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins. Visitors can take pictures in front of the iconic round door and imagine themselves living in the Shire.
The tour also includes a stop at the Green Dragon Inn, where visitors can enjoy a complimentary drink of either ginger beer or apple cider. The inn is a perfect replica of the one seen in the movies, with a cozy fireplace and wooden tables and chairs. Visitors can relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside while sipping on their drink.
Aside from the guided tour, visitors can also opt for a special evening tour, which includes a traditional Hobbiton feast at the Green Dragon Inn. The feast consists of a buffet-style dinner with dishes inspired by the movies, such as beef and ale pie and roasted chicken. The evening tour also allows visitors to see the movie set in a different light, as the hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn are lit up with lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere.
Hobbiton is not just a movie set; it is a living, breathing world that has captured the hearts of people all over the world. It is a must-visit for any fan of the books or movies, but even those who are not familiar with the stories will be enchanted by the beauty and attention to detail of this magical place. So, if you find yourself in New Zealand, make sure to take a trip to Hobbiton and experience the wonder and magic of Middle Earth for yourself.
Top Things to Do and See in Hobbiton, New Zealand
Hobbiton, located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, is a must-visit destination for any fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy world of Middle Earth. This picturesque village, nestled in the rolling hills of the Waikato region, is the real-life setting for the Shire in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. With its charming hobbit holes, lush greenery, and stunning views, Hobbiton is a dream come true for fans and non-fans alike. In this article, we will explore the top things to do and see in Hobbiton, New Zealand.
First and foremost, a visit to Hobbiton would not be complete without a tour of the movie set. The guided tour takes visitors through the 12-acre site, where they can see the iconic hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and other familiar locations from the films. The knowledgeable guides share behind-the-scenes stories and interesting facts about the making of the movies, making the tour both entertaining and informative. The attention to detail in the set design is truly remarkable, and it’s easy to see why this location was chosen as the perfect representation of the Shire.
After the tour, visitors can enjoy a refreshing drink at the Green Dragon Inn, which serves up a selection of locally brewed ales and ciders. The cozy atmosphere and traditional pub fare make it the perfect spot to relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. For those looking for a more immersive experience, the Evening Banquet Tour offers a guided tour of the set at dusk, followed by a feast fit for a hobbit in the Green Dragon Inn. This unique experience allows visitors to truly feel like they are a part of the magical world of Middle Earth.
Aside from the movie set, Hobbiton also offers a variety of other activities and attractions. The Shire’s Rest, the starting point for the tours, is home to a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia from the films. The Shire Store also offers a range of locally made products, including honey, jams, and other treats. For those looking to take a piece of Hobbiton home with them, there are also replica hobbit holes available for purchase.
For nature lovers, the Hobbiton Movie Set Farm Tour is a must-do. This tour takes visitors through the picturesque farmland surrounding the movie set, where they can see sheep, cattle, and other farm animals. The tour also includes a visit to the stunning Alexander family sheep farm, which offers breathtaking views of the Kaimai Ranges. This tour is a great way to experience the beauty of the New Zealand countryside and learn about the farming practices in the area.
Lastly, for those looking for a unique dining experience, the Hobbiton Movie Set offers a range of themed meals. From a Hobbiton-style picnic to a traditional New Zealand barbecue, there is something for everyone. The meals are served in a private dining room overlooking the movie set, providing a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
In conclusion, Hobbiton, New Zealand, offers a magical experience for fans of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. From the guided tours of the movie set to the delicious food and stunning views, there is something for everyone in this charming village. Whether you are a die-hard fan or simply looking for a unique and memorable travel destination, Hobbiton is a must-visit location that will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped into the pages of Tolkien’s books.
The Fascinating History and Creation of Hobbiton in New Zealand
Hobbiton, a small village located in the heart of New Zealand, has captured the hearts and imaginations of people all over the world. This picturesque village, with its rolling hills, lush greenery, and quaint hobbit holes, has become a must-visit destination for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved book series, The Lord of the Rings. But what many people may not know is the fascinating history and creation behind this magical place.
The story of Hobbiton began in the late 1990s when director Peter Jackson was scouting locations for his film adaptation of The Lord of the Rings. He stumbled upon a sheep farm owned by the Alexander family, located in the rural town of Matamata. The Alexander family had no idea that their farm would soon become the iconic setting for the Shire, home to the hobbits in Tolkien’s fantasy world.
The transformation of the Alexander farm into Hobbiton was a massive undertaking. The production team had to build 37 hobbit holes, a mill, a bridge, and a vegetable garden, all while preserving the natural beauty of the landscape. The attention to detail was meticulous, with every aspect of the village carefully crafted to bring Tolkien’s vision to life.
One of the most impressive aspects of Hobbiton is the level of authenticity that was achieved. The hobbit holes were built into the hillsides, just as they were described in the books, and each one was uniquely decorated to reflect the personality of its fictional inhabitant. The vegetable garden was filled with real fruits and vegetables, and the mill was fully functional, powered by a nearby stream.
The creation of Hobbiton was a collaborative effort between the production team and the Alexander family. The family’s sheep were temporarily relocated to make way for the film set, and they even helped with the construction and maintenance of the village. This partnership between the film industry and the local community is a testament to the strong sense of community and pride in New Zealand.
After the filming of The Lord of the Rings trilogy was completed, the set was dismantled, and the land was returned to its original state. However, the success of the films and the growing popularity of Hobbiton prompted the Alexander family to consider turning the film set into a permanent tourist attraction. In 2002, Hobbiton was officially opened to the public, and it has since become one of the top tourist destinations in New Zealand.
Today, visitors can take a guided tour of Hobbiton and immerse themselves in the world of hobbits. The tour begins at the Shire’s Rest, a quaint café and gift shop, where visitors can enjoy a refreshing drink before embarking on their journey. From there, they are taken on a scenic walk through the lush green hills of the Alexander farm, with a knowledgeable guide providing interesting facts and behind-the-scenes stories about the making of the films.
The tour culminates in the heart of Hobbiton, where visitors can explore the hobbit holes, the mill, and the famous Party Tree. The attention to detail is still evident, with every aspect of the village carefully maintained to ensure an authentic experience. Visitors can even enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn, a fully functioning pub that serves up traditional hobbit fare.
In conclusion, the creation of Hobbiton is a testament to the power of imagination and the dedication of a community. What started as a simple sheep farm in rural New Zealand has become a beloved destination for fans of The Lord of the Rings and a source of pride for the local community. The attention to detail and authenticity of Hobbiton make it a truly magical place, and a must-visit for anyone looking to step into the world of hobbits.
