New Zealand Hobbiton Travel Guide: A Must-Visit Middle-earth Destination for Lord of the Rings Fans!

Hobbiton is the filming location for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies, located in Matamata on New Zealand's North Island, about a 2.5-hour drive from Auckland and a 1-hour drive from Rotorua. This real-life Hobbit village retains all the details from the movie sets, immersing visitors in the magical atmosphere of Middle-earth. 📍 Must-See Attractions and Experiences in Hobbiton 1. Hobbit Holes – Step into the Homes of Hobbits 🏡 There are 44 Hobbit holes here, each filled with details including mini windows, round wooden doors, gardens, and props. Must-See Hobbit Holes: ✅ Bilbo Baggins' home – Bag End, featuring the iconic green round door! ✅ Colorful Hobbit houses on the hillside, each with a different theme, showcasing the daily lives of Hobbits. 📌 Note: You can only take photos outside the Hobbit holes; you cannot enter them (as the interior scenes were filmed in a studio). 2. The Green Dragon Inn – The Legendary Middle-earth Pub 🍺 The favorite pub of Hobbits in the movies, now you can experience it yourself! The ticket includes a special Hobbit beer, cider, or non-alcoholic drink, so you can toast like a Hobbit! 3. The Party Tree – A Pilgrimage Spot for Lord of the Rings Fans 🌳 This giant oak tree is considered the center of Hobbiton and appears multiple times in the movies, making it one of the iconic scenes. 4. The Mill & Double Arch Bridge – The Fairy Tale Corner of Hobbiton 🌿 This windmill and stone bridge are among the most romantic spots in the village. It's also an important scene for the daily activities of Hobbits in the movies, perfect for photos! 🎟 Hobbiton Tour Options and Ticket Information Standard Tour (Hobbiton Movie Set Tour) – The Most Popular Experience Ticket Price: Adult $89 NZD / Child (9-16 years) $44 NZD / Free for children under 8 Tour Duration: About 2 hours (including guided tour and Green Dragon Inn experience) Includes: Professional guide, Hobbit holes, banquet hall, Green Dragon Inn drink 📌 It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season (December to March) as it can get fully booked! 🚗 How to Get to Hobbiton? From Auckland: 🚗 Self-drive: About 2.5 hours (via SH1 highway) 🚌 Join a day tour (includes round-trip transportation and tickets) From Rotorua: 🚗 Self-drive: About 1 hour 🚌 Tour bus: Most tour companies offer shuttle services 🎒 Travel Tips ✔ Book tickets in advance (they sell out quickly during peak season) ✔ Wear comfortable shoes (you will need to walk about 1.5 km) ✔ Bring a camera 📸 (Hobbiton is perfect for photos!)