Hobbiton Village: A Journey to the Idyllic Middle-earth

This is the recreated "Middle-earth" from Tolkien's works and the ultimate pilgrimage site for fans worldwide! With 44 Hobbit holes, ginger beer at the Green Dragon Inn, and a magical firefly-lit night tour, this guide unlocks a movie-like fantasy experience in one go.👇 🌿 How to Explore Middle-earth ✅ Must-Visit Classics 1️⃣ Hobbit Holes: 44 colorful wooden houses scattered across the hillside. Don't forget to touch the iconic door knocker of Bilbo's "Bag End"! Miniature clothes drying outside and realistic pumpkins in the garden will delight detail-oriented visitors. 2️⃣ Green Dragon Inn: Thatched roof and stone fireplace, plus a free glass of movie-inspired ginger beer! The chilled, sweet drink paired with views of the pasture instantly transports you to a Hobbit gathering scene. 3️⃣ Party Tree and Banquet Lawn: Stand at the birthday party filming location from "The Hobbit" and admire the dappled light under the giant oak tree. You might just imagine Gandalf arriving in his horse-drawn cart. ✅ Hidden Gems ▫️ Night Tour: Summer exclusive! Illuminated pathways lead to Hobbit holes, banquet tables filled with Middle-earth-style roast chicken, and interactive performances by elf actors. The atmosphere is unmatched (tickets must be booked two months in advance). ▫️ Custom Door Signs: For 45 NZD, hang a personalized nameplate at the entrance of a Hobbit hole with your name and date engraved! 📸 Outfit and Photo Tips ▫️ Forest-style dress + woven bag = Everyday Hobbit villager ▫️ Vintage vest + newsboy cap = Middle-earth explorer ✨ Best Photo Spots 1️⃣ Bag End Low Angle: Squat at a 45° angle to capture the yellow door, making the person appear small and the scenery grand, with a natural fairytale filter. 2️⃣ Green Dragon Inn Window: Raise your glass by the window overlooking the pasture for a cinematic vibe. 3️⃣ Panoramic Hilltop View: Use a drone for aerial shots (permission required in advance). Coral reef-colored lagoons and cream-colored cottages create wallpaper-worthy images. 🚗 Transportation Guide ✅ Self-Drive ▫️ 2-hour drive from Auckland. Navigate to "The Shire's Rest" with free parking available. ✅ Without a Car ▫️ Take an Intercity bus from Auckland/Rotorua to Matamata town, then transfer to the shuttle bus to the attraction (15-minute ride). ⚠️ Reminders 1️⃣ Tickets must be booked in advance on the official website! No on-site ticket sales. 2️⃣ Wear non-slip athletic shoes! There are gravel paths and slopes. 3️⃣ Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent! The pasture is exposed, with strong UV rays and pesky insects.