Discover the Magic of Hobbiton New Zealand: A Journey into Tolkien's Iconic World
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to step into the world of Middle-earth? Look no further than Hobbiton New Zealand, the ultimate destination for all Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit fans.
Located in Matamata, Hobbiton New Zealand is a sprawling set built for the film adaptations of J.R.R. Tolkien's famous books. It covers over 1,250 acres of stunning New Zealand countryside, complete with rolling hills, lush greenery, and crystal-clear streams.
The walking tour of Hobbiton takes visitors through 44 hobbit holes (houses), including Bag End, home of the famous Bilbo and Frodo Baggins. But that's not all - guests can also visit other iconic locations like the Green Dragon Inn, the Party Tree, and the Mill.
What makes Hobbiton truly unique is its attention to detail. The set designers spared no expense in crafting an immersive experience, using only local materials and ensuring every aspect was true to the books and movies. From the shingles on the rooftops to the water wheel at the mill, every detail adds to the magic of Hobbiton.
But don't just take our word for it - Hobbiton New Zealand has been voted the best attraction in New Zealand multiple times and has even won international tourism awards. It's no wonder that over 600,000 people visit each year!
And if you're worried about your knowledge of Middle-earth being a bit rusty, fear not! Each tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who will give you all the background information you need and answer any questions you may have.
It's not just die-hard fans who will fall in love with Hobbiton. The breathtaking scenery and whimsical atmosphere are enjoyable for all ages and interests. Parents and grandparents can enjoy a pint of ale at the Green Dragon Inn while children can play on the Party Tree's swings.
Make sure to plan ahead when visiting Hobbiton New Zealand - tickets sell out fast, especially during peak season. It's recommended to book in advance to secure your spot.
In conclusion, whether you're an avid Tolkien fan or just looking for an unforgettable experience, Hobbiton New Zealand is the perfect destination. So why not step into Middle-earth and make some unforgettable memories?
"What Is Hobbiton New Zealand" ~ bbaz
If you are a fan of the Lord of the Rings franchise, one of the places that you definitely have to visit is Hobbiton in New Zealand. Hobbiton is located in the Waikato region of New Zealand, specifically in Matamata. It is known as the set of various movies and series for the Lord of the Rings franchise, including the famous The Hobbit Trilogy.
The Beginnings of Hobbiton
Hobbiton began as a set built in 1998 for the first Lord of the Rings movie directed by Peter Jackson. The set has been transformed from a temporary one to a permanent fixture in the country. The Hobbiton Movie set tours officially opened in 2002, and since then, millions of visitors have flocked over to see the beautiful scenery and iconic structures seen in the films.
Features of the Hobbiton Set
Visitors to the Hobbiton set will get to fully immerse themselves in the world of the hobbits. They can explore the Hobbit Holes, visit the Green Dragon Inn, and several structures that made appearances in the movies. The Hobbiton Set perfectly captures the magic of the Lord of the Rings world, and it makes for an unforgettable experience.
Hobbit Holes
The Hobbit Holes are one of the most iconic features of the set. As visitors walk on the tour, they will encounter thirty-seven unique Hobbit Holes meticulously crafted into the hillsides. These quaint homes give tourists a glimpse of what it is like in the world of the hobbits. Each Hobbit Hole is carefully designed for a specific hobbit and his lifestyle.
The Green Dragon Inn
One of the most iconic and memorable Hobbiton locations is the Green Dragon Inn. Visitors can grab a drink inside the cozy establishment where hobbits would often meet up. The interior of the tavern is beautiful, and every aspect reflects the style of a classic English pub; it's an excellent place to take a break from touring the vast landscape.
Visiting Hobbiton
Visitors can only enter the movie set by booking through a guided tour. There are several tours available and visitors can choose from different packages depending on their preferences. It's best to book in advance since tours can be fully booked. Also, take note that visitors aren't allowed to roam freely around the grounds, so booking a tour is necessary to explore Hobbiton fully.
Tips for Visiting Hobbiton
Here are some essential tips for visiting Hobbiton:
- Book in advance - tours can get fully booked, especially during peak season.
- Dress appropriately - Hobbiton is situated outdoors, so it's best to dress comfortably and bring sunscreen if necessary.
- Bring your camera - Hobbiton is incredibly picturesque, and you'll want to capture those moments.
- Don't touch the set - although it may be tempting, visitors shouldn't touch or lean on any part of the set to preserve its condition.
Wrapping Up
If you're a fan of the Lord of the Rings movies, then a visit to Hobbiton in New Zealand is a must-do. With breathtaking scenery and intricate structures designed to showcase the world of the hobbits, Hobbiton is the perfect destination for a dreamy getaway. Don't forget to include It in your bucket list.
Comparing Hobbiton New Zealand to Other Tourist Destinations
Introduction
When it comes to tourist destinations, there are countless options to choose from. However, few locations are as unique and captivating as Hobbiton New Zealand. This magical region has been crafted to resemble the idyllic hobbit village from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit books. Today, Hobbiton New Zealand is a popular destination for movie fans and adventurous travelers alike. In this blog post, we'll be comparing Hobbiton New Zealand to other well-known tourist destinations to determine why it stands out from the rest.Attractions
One of the main reasons people travel is to visit famous attractions. While most destinations have at least one or two noteworthy places to visit, Hobbiton New Zealand has a truly immersive experience. Visitors are transported to a different world as they explore the winding paths and quaint hobbit holes. Comparatively, places like Paris and London have iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or Big Ben, but these do not offer the same level of immersion and sensory experience that Hobbiton provides.Table: Attractions Comparison
| Destination | Noteworthy Attraction || --- | --- || Hobbiton New Zealand | The Hobbiton Movie Set || Paris, France | The Eiffel Tower || London, England | Big Ben |Natural Scenery
Some tourists seek out destinations with breathtaking natural scenery. While Hobbiton New Zealand has its fair share of stunning landscapes, it is not the primary draw for visitors. Instead, it provides a picturesque backdrop for the hobbit village and enhances the overall ambiance. In contrast, places like Santorini in Greece or Banff National Park in Canada are notable for their breathtaking natural beauty.Table: Natural Scenery Comparison
| Destination | Noteworthy Natural Scenery || --- | --- || Hobbiton New Zealand | Rolling hills and lush greenery || Santorini, Greece | Clifftop towns overlooking the Aegean Sea || Banff National Park, Canada | Glaciers, lakes, and soaring mountains |Culture
Culture plays a significant role in many travelers' choices. While Hobbiton New Zealand is technically a fictional culture, it still manages to capture the whimsical spirit of Tolkien's books. Visitors can learn about hobbit society and explore the unique customs and traditions of this fictional people. Alternatively, destinations like Tokyo or Rio de Janeiro offer vibrant and distinct cultures that are real and alive today.Table: Culture Comparison
| Destination | Noteworthy Cultural Elements || --- | --- || Hobbiton New Zealand | Fictional hobbit culture and traditions || Tokyo, Japan | Nightlife, street food, and unique traditions || Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | Samba dancing, Carnaval, and beach culture |Cost
Finally, cost is an important factor for many tourists. Hobbiton New Zealand is certainly not the cheapest option, with tickets starting around $100 USD per person. However, it does provide good value for money when you consider the unique experience and attention to detail that has gone into creating the set. Destinations like Bali or Thailand can be more affordable, but they may not offer the same level of luxury or unique experiences.Table: Cost Comparison
| Destination | Average Daily Cost (per person) || --- | --- || Hobbiton New Zealand | $150-$200 USD || Bali, Indonesia | $30-$50 USD || Phuket, Thailand | $50-$100 USD |Conclusion
Ultimately, Hobbiton New Zealand stands out as a unique and memorable tourist destination. While it may not have the same natural beauty as Banff or the same cultural richness as Tokyo, it offers an immersive experience that cannot be found elsewhere. Additionally, it provides good value for money and can be combined with other New Zealand destinations for a more comprehensive trip. If you're a fan of The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit books/films, Hobbiton New Zealand is a must-visit location.What Is Hobbiton New Zealand: A Guide to the Magical Movie Set
Introduction
Hobbiton is a 12-acre New Zealand movie set that was first used in the filming of The Lord of the Rings trilogy in 1999. It's an enchanting attraction with plenty to see and do for fans of J. R. R. Tolkien's epic novels or Peter Jackson's blockbuster movies.Getting There
Hobbiton is located within the rolling hills of Matamata, a small town in the Waikato region of New Zealand's North Island. Most visitors opt to travel here from either Auckland or Rotorua, as both cities are within a couple of hours' drive.Booking Your Visit
To access Hobbiton, you must book a guided tour. These tours run several times a day, seven days a week and visitors can choose between a daytime or evening tour. Due to the popularity of Hobbiton, it is essential to pre-book your ticket.The Tour
The guided tour takes around two hours and shows you various hobbit holes which are built into the hillside. Guides are in-character as they share fascinating facts about the production of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.The Green Dragon Inn
The Green Dragon Inn is a replica of the cozy pub found in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. Visitors enjoy the fresh Hobbiton Ale on tap, which is brewed specifically for Hobbiton. You can choose to include lunch or dinner at this iconic location.Special Events and Experiences
Hobbiton hosts a range of special events throughout the year, such as festive-themed tours around Christmas time, long-table banquets in the Green Dragon Inn and private tours. Allowing guests to experience the film set in a more intimate way.The Hobbiton Movie Set Shop
After your tour, make sure you visit the gift shop, which is stocked with an extensive range of merchandise. You'll also be able to enjoy some refreshments from The Shire's Rest Cafe and take a stroll around the manicured gardens that are beautiful all year round.Photography
Photography inside the Hobbiton movie set is permitted and can make for some magical memories. Professional photography is available upon request, which captures breathtaking images of you next to your favorite hobbit holes.Tips for Your Visit
Hobbiton is a popular tourist destination, so book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Dress appropriately for the weather as this attraction is mostly outdoors. Wear comfortable shoes as there is quite a bit of walking involved and ensure your camera is fully charged.Conclusion
Hobbiton is a must-visit New Zealand attraction for anyone who loves The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit movies. For fans of these iconic films it is the chance to enter the world of Middle Earth, walk in the footsteps of the Hobbits and to see the magic come to life. Book your tickets today for a truly unforgettable experience.Discovering Hobbiton, New Zealand: An Unforgettable Journey to Middle Earth
Welcome, dear readers, to the wonderful world of Middle Earth. This magical place, created by J.R.R. Tolkien's imagination, has captured the hearts and minds of people from all corners of the globe. In this article, we will take you on an exciting journey to one of Tolkien's most famous creations - Hobbiton, in New Zealand.
Hobbiton is a movie set that was built in the heart of New Zealand's Waikato region, initially for the film set of The Lord of the Rings trilogy but later used in The Hobbit trilogy as well. It has now become one of the country's most popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to see the beautiful scenery and experience the magic of Middle Earth.
The History of Hobbiton
The story of Hobbiton dates back to the year 1998 when Peter Jackson, the director of The Lord of the Rings movies, was looking for the perfect location to film the scenes set in the Shire. After searching extensively throughout the country, he came upon a sheep and cattle farm near the small town of Matamata, situated about two hours' drive from Auckland city.
The farm was owned by the Alexander family, who agreed to allow Jackson to use their land for the film set. The task of building the Hobbit holes, the fences, and the gardens was entrusted to the award-winning production designer, Grant Major, and his team of artisans. They spent several months constructing the Hobbiton movie set, and filming for the trilogy began in 1999.
After filming was completed, the set was mostly dismantled, and the land returned to its original state. However, something remarkable happened over the years. The Alexander family realized that people were driving past their land just to catch a glimpse of the Hobbit holes, and so the idea of creating a permanent tourist attraction was born.
The Tour Experience
Visiting Hobbiton is a unique experience that takes you back to Middle Earth, and the tour begins at Shire's Rest, an iSite visitor center on the outskirts of Matamata. From here, visitors are transported by bus to the movie set, a journey through rolling hills and lush green pastures that will leave you breathless. As you enter Hobbiton, you'll notice that every detail is perfect- from the colorful flowers to the quirky mailboxes.
The tour guide will then take you through the movie set, stopping at different Hobbit holes to reveal fascinating stories and trivia about the filming of the movies. You'll walk past Bilbo Baggins' house, complete with its iconic round door, and learn about the many movie scenes that were shot here. You'll also see the old oak tree, under which Gandalf the wizard performs his fireworks show for Bilbo's birthday party.
A highlight of any Hobbiton tour is The Green Dragon Inn, where visitors can relax and enjoy a complimentary beverage, brewed on site. The inn's beautifully designed interior, with its wooden beams, roaring fireplace, and traditional furnishings, makes for a cozy atmosphere.
Seasonal Tours and Events
Hobbiton offers seasonal tours and events, which take you into the heart of the film set and allow you to experience Middle Earth in a different way. For example, in summer, you can enjoy an evening banquet inside the dining hall of the Green Dragon Inn, or perhaps explore the gardens of Hobbiton in spring when they're in full bloom. There's even a special Hobbiton Movie Set Marathon, which allows you to run or walk a full or half-marathon through the Shire!
Plan Your Visit to Hobbiton
There's a reason why Hobbiton is one of New Zealand's most popular tourist destinations - it truly is a magical place. If you're planning to visit, be sure to book your tickets well in advance, as tours can sell out months ahead. Also, remember to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as much of the tour is outdoors.
We hope you've enjoyed this brief tour of Hobbiton, and that we've inspired you to plan your own journey to this stunning location. Whether you're a die-hard Lord of the Rings fan or simply love beautiful scenery, Hobbiton is an experience unlike any other. Come and discover Middle Earth for yourself!
Thank you for reading!
What Is Hobbiton New Zealand?
What is Hobbiton?
Hobbiton is a fictional village that was brought to life in the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movie trilogies directed by Sir Peter Jackson. It is known for being home to the hobbits, the fictional race of small humanoids described by J.R.R. Tolkien in his famous books.
Where is Hobbiton located in New Zealand?
Hobbiton is a real-life attraction located in Matamata, a town in the Waikato region of the North Island of New Zealand. The attraction was built on a working farm and is an exact replica of the movie set used for the films. Visitors can take guided tours of the village and its surrounding areas.
When was Hobbiton first created?
The Hobbiton movie set was first created in 1999 for the filming of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. The set was originally meant to be dismantled after filming wrapped up, but after the success of the movies, it was rebuilt into a permanent tourist attraction.
What can you do in Hobbiton?
Visitors to Hobbiton can take a guided tour that lasts about two hours. They can visit the Hobbit Holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Mill, the Party Tree, and other iconic locations. Visitors can also taste some of the unique food and drink offerings, including Hobbit-themed ales and traditional New Zealand cuisine. Additionally, there are some gift shops available where visitors can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia.
How much does it cost to visit Hobbiton?
The cost of admission to Hobbiton varies depending on the type of tour selected. As of 2021, the standard tour costs NZD $89 for adults and NZD $44.50 for children aged 9-16. There are also premium and private tours available at different price points.
Is Hobbiton worth visiting?
For fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies, a visit to Hobbiton is definitely worth it. The attention to detail and the stunning landscape make for an unforgettable experience. But even if you are not a fan of the films, visiting Hobbiton is an enjoyable way to immerse yourself in New Zealand's unique culture and scenery.
Hobbiton is a fictional village brought to life in the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movie trilogies.
Hobbiton is located in Matamata, a town in the Waikato region of the North Island of New Zealand.
The Hobbiton movie set was first created in 1999 for the filming of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.
Visitors can take a guided tour that lasts about two hours and includes visiting iconic locations, tasting unique food and drinks, and buying souvenirs.
The cost of admission to Hobbiton varies depending on the type of tour selected.
For fans of the movies or those interested in New Zealand's culture and scenery, a visit to Hobbiton is worth it.