A guide to visiting Hobbiton: tips and experience

If you have a touch of geekiness in your soul, one of the most mesmerizing experiences you can have in New Zealand is visiting the legendary Hobbiton. This enchanting place, steeped in magic and fantasy, transports you into the world of J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved characters. In this article, we will delve into our captivating experience in Hobbiton and share invaluable tips for making the most of your visit. Spoiler alert: it’s absolutely breathtaking!

Warning! This post contains a high dose of geekiness (and we love it).

A stroke of luck that birthed a legend

Imagine a simple farmer from Matamata, a quaint town nestled in the North Island of New Zealand, going about his daily routine with sheep and cows, when suddenly he receives an extraordinary proposal: to transform his farm into the set of one of the most successful film franchises in history, The Lord of the Rings!

This serendipitous moment not only changed his life but also put his sleepy town on the global map, attracting fans from all over the world eager to experience the magic of Middle-earth firsthand.

Welcome to the world of hobbits

Now, let’s talk about hobbits! If you’re not familiar with Tolkien or the cinematic vision of Peter Jackson, you might not know about these delightful creatures. Think of Frodo, with his curly hair and furry feet, embarking on an epic adventure. But even if you haven’t watched the films or read the books, Hobbiton will capture your heart.

Hobbits are known for their simplicity, love for nature, and enjoyment of life's little pleasures: a stroll through the hills, a hearty meal with friends, a pint at the local pub, and a peaceful moment with a pipe. They are relatable and charming, making it easy for anyone to feel right at home in their world.

Fascinating facts about Hobbiton

• The iconic hobbit holes are charming from the outside but surprisingly empty inside; interior scenes were shot in a studio in Wellington.
• Interestingly, many visitors to Hobbiton have neither read the books nor seen the movies; they come based on recommendations or travel guides.
• After filming the original Lord of the Rings trilogy, the Hobbiton set was dismantled, leaving only the hobbit holes. Thankfully, after filming The Hobbit, the set was preserved for future generations!
• The Alexander farm, home to Hobbiton, remains an operational farm, meaning you’ll likely see sheep grazing near the charming hobbit homes.
• There’s a hilarious urban legend about a tourist who claimed to be a real hobbit and refused to leave when he found his “home.” We can only imagine the chaos that ensued!
• The Green Dragon Inn was meticulously recreated from the film; you can enjoy a free drink here, choosing between two types of beer: a dark brew reminiscent of Guinness and a refreshing ginger beer with just 1% alcohol. Don’t miss the delicious apple cider if beer isn't your thing!
• Fun fact: the tree above Bilbo and Frodo’s house is actually a fake tree!

Experiencing Hobbiton: What to Expect

We embarked on a tour to Hobbiton from Auckland, but if you’re traveling by car or campervan, driving directly to Matamata is a great option. Just be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment!

Upon arrival, we were given a beautifully detailed map of Hobbiton and boarded a bus that took us through Alexander farm. Although we didn’t spot any hobbits, we were greeted by the sight of fluffy sheep! After about ten minutes, we finally set foot in Hobbiton, and it was surreal to see in person what we had only viewed on screen.

The intricate details left us in awe: pumpkins scattered on the ground, clothes hanging on lines as if waiting for a hobbit to collect them, carts filled with wood, paints, bakery stalls, and vibrant gardens adorned with flowers. The colorful round doors of the hobbit holes—ranging from blue to green, red, and yellow—were particularly charming, especially the homes of Bilbo and Frodo perched atop the hill.

Must-See Attractions and Delights

As you stroll through Hobbiton, don’t miss these iconic spots:

1. The birthday party tree, where Bilbo famously vanished.
2. The two-arch bridge, offering scenic views.
3. The picturesque mill, perfect for photos.
4. The Green Dragon Inn, where you can enjoy a complimentary drink.

Our visit was incredibly enjoyable, especially because of the free drinks available! The ginger beer was a standout, refreshing and delicious, making it a must-try during your visit. While the food at the inn is all for purchase, we opted for a simple experience of dressing up as hobbits instead—though one of us ended up looking more like Mary Poppins!

Practical Information for Your Visit

Getting to Hobbiton can be done in two ways: by your own car (Matamata is about two hours from Auckland) or through a guided tour. Regardless of how you arrive, the only way to explore Hobbiton is through a guided tour!

If you prefer to go independently, make sure to reserve your Hobbiton tickets in advance.

We took a tour with the Kiwiana agency from Auckland, which cost $125. This included round-trip transportation, admission to Hobbiton, and a visit to the beautiful Hamilton Gardens (which we’ll cover in another post). Since Hobbiton tickets can be pricey, opting for a guided tour is a smart choice, as the guides share fascinating anecdotes and trivia about New Zealand and Hobbiton along the way. We absolutely loved the experience and highly recommend it!

If you’re keen to combine your visit with a trip to the Waitomo Caves, have a look at this tour.

Essential tips for visiting Hobbiton

• Book your tickets early to ensure entry, especially during peak season.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a fair amount of walking involved.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture the enchanting scenery.
• Be prepared for changing weather; a light jacket is advisable.
• Consider timing your visit with a meal at the Green Dragon Inn for an immersive experience.

Hobbiton is a magical place that transcends generations—both fans and newcomers alike will find joy in its charm. The surreal experience leaves you pinching yourself to believe that you truly stepped into Middle-earth!

Whether you’re a die-hard Tolkien fan or just looking for an unforgettable experience in New Zealand, Hobbiton should be at the top of your list. The adventure awaits!

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