“Hobbiton” is a place that was created specifically for the filming of the cult movies The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. In New Zealand, a large number of locations were used to create the movie, but Hobbiton is the only place that was not dismantled after the completion of the work. It is impossible not to take advantage of this opportunity, so now you have a chance to learn more about this mysterious settlement. And perhaps prepare for a visit.
Among the scenery, you will be able to walk through the holes of little hobbits, visit the local Green Dragon Tavern and just enjoy the views of this wonderful place. Amazing houses, colorful gardens, playful nature – all this will immerse you in your favorite atmosphere of peace and childhood. In order to help the audience feel such impressive emotions, the authors had to recreate all the necessary conditions: houses, forests, rivers, mountains, plains. As a result, an ordinary location for a movie has become a local landmark visited by thousands of tourists every year.
Where to find this secret town?
The Hobbiton settlement is located near the city of Matamata, on the North Island of New Zealand.
You can get there in the following ways:
- As part of an excursion group.
- By renting a car. You can get to the attraction by car from the following cities: Taupo, Rotorua, Hamilton, Tauranga, Tirau. You can find route maps here.
- By bus. There are buses from Auckland to Matamata. Buses depart at 8:00, 9:00, 9:30, 12:30, 13:00 and 15:30 from the Auckland Central bus stop.
Due to the large number of tourists, a special route through the village was developed, where guides tell different stories about the main characters, the history of the creation of this place and the owners of the farm on which it was all built. The journey lasts about 2 hours.
Every year, Hobbiton is visited by more than 300 tourists who enjoy the area. They travel to the homes of little hobbits, even have the opportunity to drink local beer and taste fresh pastries. There are also sheep living on the territory, which will not mind being treated to something tasty.
What to do after the tour?
During and after the tour, you can take a variety of photos that will remind you of this incredible journey for the rest of your life. You can also have a snack, buy souvenirs, and visit the local food festival.
- Cafes. There are several cafes where you can have a snack. The most popular of them is the Shire’s Rest Cafe.
- The Shire gift shop, where you can buy souvenirs to decorate your home.
- The Hobbiton Marketplace. Another interesting place in Hobbiton is the local market, located near the arched stone bridge. The stalls offer authentic New Zealand cheese, freshly baked bread, smoked meat, smoked fish, and much more. In addition to local food, the tents offer handmade toys and musical instruments.
