Waitomo Caves | Hamilton

Information

Landmark: Waitomo Caves
City: Hamilton
Country: New Zealand
Continent: Australia

Hobbiton Movie Set Tours is one of New Zealand’s most famous tourist attractions, located near Matamata in the Waikato region, about 45 minutes from Hamilton and 2 hours from Auckland. It is the filming location for the Shire in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, directed by Peter Jackson.

History of Hobbiton

In 1998, Sir Peter Jackson and his production team were searching for the perfect location to bring J.R.R. Tolkien’s Shire to life. They discovered Alexander Farm, a 1,250-acre sheep and cattle farm near Matamata, which had rolling green hills that perfectly matched Tolkien’s descriptions.

The original Hobbiton set for The Lord of the Rings was built as a temporary structure in 1999 and was mostly dismantled after filming.
When The Hobbit trilogy was filmed in 2011, the set was rebuilt permanently with more durable materials.
Today, Hobbiton remains a fully immersive tourist destination, attracting over 600,000 visitors annually.

Tour Experience

Visitors can explore Hobbiton on a guided tour, which lasts about 2 hours. The experience includes:

1. Walking Through the Shire

Visitors can wander through the 44 Hobbit Holes, each uniquely designed with colorful doors, gardens, and props.
Some of the most iconic Hobbit Holes include Bilbo Baggins' home (Bag End) and Samwise Gamgee’s home.
The attention to detail makes it feel like the Shire is alive, with laundry on clotheslines, vegetables in gardens, and smoke from chimneys.

2. The Party Tree and Green Dragon Inn

The Party Tree, featured in Bilbo’s 111th birthday party, stands in a scenic location overlooking Hobbiton.
Visitors finish the tour at the Green Dragon Inn, where they can enjoy exclusive Hobbiton ales, cider, or non-alcoholic ginger beer by the fireplace or in the beer garden.

3. Behind-the-Scenes Stories

Tour guides share fascinating insights about how the set was built, filming secrets, and how Peter Jackson brought Tolkien’s world to life.

Types of Tours Available

1. Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Standard guided tour of Hobbiton.
Includes a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn.

2. Evening Banquet Tour

A special twilight tour ending with a feast inside the Green Dragon Inn.
Visitors experience Hobbiton at sunset, with lantern-lit pathways.

3. Second Breakfast Tour (Limited availability)

Inspired by Hobbits’ love of food, this tour includes a hearty breakfast in the Millhouse after exploring the Shire.

4. Private Tour

For those wanting a personalized experience with their own guide.

Practical Information

Location: 501 Buckland Rd, Hinuera, Matamata, New Zealand.
Operating Hours: Open daily except for Christmas Day. Tours run every 30 minutes during peak season.
Transport: Shuttle services are available from Matamata and Rotorua.
Weather: Tours operate rain or shine, with umbrellas provided if needed.