
- Hobbiton Movie Set, Matamata - New Zealand
Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set from Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit movies
Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit destination for fans of “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” movies. Known as “The Shire” in the films, it is a magical place that transports visitors to the charming and idyllic world of hobbits.
Located in Matamata, New Zealand, Hobbiton is a sprawling 12-acre site that features over 40 hobbit holes, lush gardens, and scenic vistas. Visitors can take a guided tour of the set, learn about the making of the movies, and explore the charming hobbit village created for the films.
The attention to detail in creating the Hobbiton set is awe-inspiring, with every Hobbit hole and garden meticulously crafted to capture the essence of J.R.R. Tolkien’s vision. The tour is a treat for the senses, with Hobbiton’s sights, sounds, and smells bringing the world of Middle-earth to life.

Highlights of the tour include a visit to the famous Bag End, the home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, and a stop at the Green Dragon Inn, where visitors can enjoy a refreshing drink and soak up the cozy atmosphere.
In addition to the guided tours, Hobbiton also offers private tours, evening tours, and themed events throughout the year, including the famous Hobbiton Movie Set Christmas banquet.
Overall, a visit to Hobbiton is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows fans to step into Middle-earth and immerse themselves in the magic and wonder of “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” movies.
Who created Hobbiton?
J.R.R. Tolkien originally invented Hobbiton in his famous novel, “The Hobbit,” which was published in 1937. Then “The Lord of the Rings Trilogy”. Tolkien created the fictional world of Middle Earth and populated it with a wide range of characters, including hobbits.
In the book, hobbits are described as small, peaceful creatures who live in hobbit holes in the Shire, a rural region of Middle Earth. They are known for their love of good food, drink, and comfortable living, and they have a great respect for nature and the land.
When it came time to create the film adaptation of “The Lord of the Rings,” director Peter Jackson scoured New Zealand for the perfect location to bring Tolkien’s vision to life. He eventually discovered a sheep farm in Matamata, which he thought would be the perfect setting for Hobbiton.
Jackson and his team spent two years transforming the farm into the picturesque village seen in the films, complete with 44 hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and the Party Tree. They used a combination of practical and digital effects to create the magical world of Middle Earth on the big screen.
Today, Hobbiton is a popular tourist attraction that draws visitors from around the world who come to see the real-life version of Tolkien’s vision.

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
The tour will take you through the lush green fields of the Shire, where you will see hobbit holes, gardens, and the iconic Party Tree. You will be able to explore the village and see where Bilbo Baggins lived, as well as visit the Green Dragon Inn and enjoy a refreshing ale or cider.
During the tour, you will learn about the history and making of the movie set, including the stories behind the design and construction of each hobbit hole. The tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the films, and will share interesting trivia and behind-the-scenes information with you.
Overall, visiting Hobbiton is a unique and immersive experience that will transport you to Middle Earth and allow you to experience the magic of the films firsthand.