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Matamata (aka Hobbiton)

Matamata sits in the heart of rural Waikato and is a prime dairy and thoroughbred agricultural area. It has a bustling town centre with plenty of shops and cafes. More recently however the Lord of the Rings Trilogy and the recent Hobbit movies has added a whole new reason to visit. Located on the outskirts of town is Hobbiton or at least the locations used for the scenes of Hobbiton. Each your thousands of visitors come to see the Hobbit village, the Hobbit houses and now the Green Dragon pub, a real working pub serving Hobbit Ale! The phenomenon has had the effect that the region is now simply referred to as Hobbiton.

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Shires Rest

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Shires Rest

In the heart of New Zealand, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire with a guided tour of Hobbiton, as featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. Hobbiton is located just outside of Matamata in the heart of the lush Waikato farming region. Here you can visit such iconic Hobbit locations as Hobbit Holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Mill and the Party Tree with a guide sharing behind-the-scenes tales and insight into the making of the films. Spend time wandering through Bagshot Row before being led inside a Hobbit Hole to view the detailed interior, designed to provide an authentic glimpse into the dwelling of a Hobbit.

Hobbiton Tour with Marquee Festive Feast Lunch

Hobbiton Tour with Marquee Festive Feast Lunch

Become immersed in The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films when you visit the actual Hobbiton Movie Set. Located just outside of Matamata - in the heart of the lush Waikato farming region, your 3 hour tour will begin with a drive through a picturesque sheep farm. You will also get to experience the taste of the Shire with a delicious buffet lunch served in the Party Marquee.

Hobbiton Second Breakfast Tour

Hobbiton Second Breakfast Tour

You've already had breakfast, but what about second breakfast? Make the first footsteps on the Movie Set as part of the first tour of the day. After your tour and a visit to The Green Dragon Inn, follow your guide back over the double arch stone bridge to The Millhouse, where you will be treated to a breakfast spread fit for a Hobbit. The breakfast table will be heaped a selection of hot and cold breakfast options

Private Hobbiton tour

Private Hobbiton tour

Join your private guide for an exclusive Middle-Earth encounter at Hobbiton Movie Set. Your tour starts with a drive through the picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will escort you through the twelve acre site recounting fascinating details of how the Hobbiton Movie set was created for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton movies. The Hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn, Mill and other structures created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films can be viewed with some allowing you to enter this magical world. With beautiful Hobbit gardens and laundry on the line, this life-like village is enchanting. After the tour you can enjoy some Hobbiton brews in the Green Dragon Inn in front of a roaring fire.

Hobbiton Evening Banquet Dinner Tour

Hobbiton Evening Banquet Dinner Tour

Begin your Hobbiton evening experience with a enjoyable wander through the twelve acre life-like Hobbiton Village set as you guide shares the fascinating details of how the village was created for the movies. Your walking tour finishes at The Green Dragon Inn where you can relax in front of the open fires enjoying a complimentary drink from the Hobbit Southfarthing range of unique beverages. After pre-dinner drinks you're treated to a magnificent banquet feast fit for a Hobbit at the Green Dragon dining room. The tables will be laid out with everything a happy Hobbit would expect at a feast and as is the tradition in The Shire, second helpings are expected! After dinner you guide will take you on a magical walk back through the shire, holding your own lantern that helps light your way you'll peak through windows of the living village as chimney smoke and light give the illusion of Hobbits tucked up inside.

Behind the Scenes Tour at Hobbiton

Behind the Scenes Tour at Hobbiton

Join your guide for a walking tour of the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set in a small group of up to 30 people, offering an intimate experience. Wander through the 12-acre set, past famous Hobbit Holes and Bagshot Row, and get a glimpse inside a Hobbit's home before stopping at The Green Dragon Inn to enjoy a drink from the exclusive Hobbit Southfarthing range. In true Shire style, you'll be treated to a hearty banquet lunch at The Millhouse, the private-themed venue. Indulge in a delicious feast with second helpings encouraged! Next, explore behind the scenes with a visit to the Art Department’s workshop. Your guide will reveal how the magic of Hobbiton is created, showcasing the work of props masters, carpenters, and scenic painters who bring the set to life. To finish, follow your guide down hidden paths to a secret spot, where you’ll enjoy a Hobbit-style platter of cheese, chutneys, and fruit while taking in breathtaking views to end your journey.