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North Island

Start: Matamata
Duration: 2.5 hours
Difficulty: 1

Details

The Magic Behind the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Few places in New Zealand spark the imagination quite like the Hobbiton Movie Set in Waikato. This former sheep farm, chosen by Sir Peter Jackson, now welcomes fans to explore the cinematic beauty of Middle-earth. A guided walking tour takes you through the heart of the Shire, where intricate details reveal the magic behind the films.

Rolling hills dotted with Hobbit Holes offer the perfect backdrop for fans and photographers alike. With the Kaimai Ranges rising in the distance, each stop on the tour feels like a scene from the screen. Film buffs and first-time visitors will enjoy hearing behind-the-scenes stories about the set's creation and ongoing upkeep.

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Unmissable Highlights and Visitor Info

Colourful doors, lush gardens and the famous Bag End are just a few of the highlights along the walking route. You’ll explore interiors on Bagshot Row and see firsthand how film design created a believable world for Hobbits to call home. Even with minor construction underway, all the key sights remain open and accessible.

Crossing the stone bridge to The Millhouse and ending your visit at the Green Dragon Inn is a real treat. A complimentary Southfarthing beverage adds the perfect finishing touch to your time in the Shire. While the main tour route adjusts slightly during maintenance, the charm and storytelling stay true to the spirit of the films.

Important Information

  • Departs from: The Shire's Rest, 501 Buckland Rd, Hinuera, Matamata.
  • Duration: 2.5 hours (including transport between The Shire's Rest and the Movie Set)
  • Arrival Time: Report to The Shire's Rest ticketing centre no later than 20 minutes before your tour departs.
  • Guided Tour: This is a fully guided walking tour. Sensible footwear is recommended.
  • Tickets: Ensure your booking includes a ticket for everyone in your group, including children aged 0-10 years. All guests must have a ticket allocated prior to arrival to ensure we can accommodate your group.

Wheel Chair Access at Hobbiton

There is a portion of the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour that is not wheelchair accessible. If you book at least 2 weeks in advance, we can offer you a complementary golf cart to take you around the set, so you can see everything.

Please note that Hobbiton Movie Set is currently undergoing ongoing maintenance and restoration to help preserve this iconic film location for years to come.

All daily tours continue to operate as scheduled. Guests may occasionally notice construction equipment or hear background activity, but this work is carefully managed within designated areas to minimise any impact on the experience. Visitors will still enjoy the full Hobbiton tour, along with added insights into the preservation efforts through updated guide commentary.

Coach & Vehicle Access
At times, vehicle access may be adjusted for safety or parking capacity. Please follow the instructions provided by Hobbiton’s Tour Operations team on arrival, as these may vary throughout the day.

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