Step into Middle-earth and explore the enchanting world of hobbits
Book Your AdventureJourney to the heart of the Shire and discover the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set, nestled in the picturesque Waikato farmland near Matamata, New Zealand. This fully guided tour takes you through the stunning 12-acre movie set where Peter Jackson's epic Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies were filmed.
Walk in the footsteps of Bilbo Baggins, explore 44 unique hobbit holes, visit the iconic Green Dragon Inn, and immerse yourself in the enchanting landscape that brought J.R.R. Tolkien's legendary tales to life.
Explore the intricate details of hobbit dwellings, from Bag End to the smallest homes
Enjoy a complimentary beverage at the authentic hobbit pub
See the famous tree where Bilbo celebrated his eleventy-first birthday
Learn fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from expert guides
The Hobbiton Movie Set is one of the most recognisable filming locations in the world, bringing J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth to life for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Here are some fascinating behind-the-scenes facts that make a visit to Hobbiton truly special.
When filming began in 1999, Hobbiton was originally constructed as a temporary movie set using plywood and polystyrene. After filming wrapped, the set was dismantled and the farmland returned to its original state. Due to overwhelming fan demand, Hobbiton was rebuilt in 2011 using permanent materials for The Hobbit films — allowing visitors to explore the Shire year-round.
The movie set features 44 unique hobbit holes, each carefully designed to reflect the personality and social status of its imaginary resident. From modest homes with simple gardens to elaborate dwellings like Bilbo Baggins’ iconic Bag End, every detail was handcrafted by the film’s art department.
The famous Party Tree, seen during Bilbo’s eleventy-first birthday celebration, is one of the most iconic features of Hobbiton. While the tree itself was real, its leaves were artificially attached and individually wired into place — a process that took months to complete and required regular touch-ups during filming.
The Green Dragon Inn is not just a façade — it was fully constructed as a functioning pub using traditional materials such as oak, stone, and hand-crafted furniture. During your guided tour, you’ll enjoy a complimentary beverage brewed exclusively for Hobbiton, making it one of the most immersive movie locations in the world.
Hobbiton is located on a privately owned sheep farm near Matamata in New Zealand’s Waikato region. The rolling green hills, lakes, and pastures were chosen by director Peter Jackson for their untouched, storybook appearance — perfectly matching Tolkien’s description of the Shire.
Many of Hobbiton’s smallest details are easy to overlook without expert guidance. From smoke rising from chimneys using hidden fans, to clotheslines arranged by hobbit family size, your guide will point out subtle filmmaking tricks that helped bring Middle-earth to life on screen.
Tip: Fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit often discover new details on every visit, making Hobbiton a destination worth experiencing even more than once.
Begin your journey with pickup from central Auckland locations. Relax in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles as we travel through the scenic Waikato region.
Enter the magical world of the Shire with your expert guide. Your 2-hour walking tour includes visits to iconic locations from the films.
Conclude your tour with a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn, just like the hobbits!
Depart Hobbiton and travel back to Auckland, arriving approximately 3:30 PM.
Discover some of the most fascinating behind-the-scenes secrets from the Hobbiton Movie Set.
The full day tour runs approximately 8 hours from Auckland, including 2 hours at the Hobbiton Movie Set.
Yes! The tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages. Children under 8 receive a discounted rate.
Absolutely! Photography is encouraged throughout the set. Your guide will point out the best photo spots.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential as the tour involves walking on uneven terrain. Dress for the weather and bring layers.
A beverage at the Green Dragon Inn is included. You may wish to bring snacks or purchase food at the Shire's Rest Café.