Hobbiton™ Movie Set is celebrating global recognition after Hobbiton Bagshot Row™ experience received a coveted honour at the 32nd Annual Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) Thea Awards.
Hobbiton Bagshot Row, the richly detailed interior Hobbit Hole experience introduced as part of the set’s major enhancements, was awarded the Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement – Attraction, Limited Budget. The distinction is given to attractions that demonstrate excellence in storytelling, design, engineering, and the creation of memorable, immersive visitor experiences.
The announcement was made overnight at Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida, marking a significant milestone for the iconic Waikato attraction.
Bagshot Row™ at Hobbiton™ Movie Set
Considered the highest accolade in themed entertainment, a TEA Thea Award celebrates projects that exemplify global best practice in creating compelling destinations. The award also acknowledges the artistry and technical expertise required to deliver fully immersive environments that transport visitors into imaginative worlds.
Hobbiton Movie Set’s Chief Executive Officer Russell Alexander says he is “thrilled with the award. Bagshot Row felt like the missing peice of the puzzle and was a concept years in the making. Since we welcomed our first visitors in December 2002, we have always put the visitor first and focused on continual improvements to offer the best and most authentic experience we can, so to be recognised for this is outstanding”.
The recognition further cements Hobbiton’s status as one of New Zealand’s leading visitor experiences and a standout attraction on the international stage.