6hr Hobbiton Movie Set Tour – Departs Tauranga

Set out on a captivating 6-hour Hobbiton Movie Set Tour departing from Tauranga, New Zealand. Explore iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, as you wander through the enchanting Shire and uncover the secrets behind the set’s creation. With behind-the-scenes insights, a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn, and stunning views of New Zealand’s picturesque countryside, this tour promises a truly memorable experience. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about the magic of filmmaking, this journey through the Shire is sure to leave you spellbound.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Tauranga to the Hobbiton Movie Set, featuring behind-the-scenes insights and a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn.
• Transportation provided via air-conditioned 12-seater van, with port pickup and drop-off available for convenience.
• Small group size capped at 11 travelers for a personalized experience, led by a knowledgeable local driver/guide.
• Explore iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, immersing visitors in the enchanting world of Middle-earth.
• Stunning views of New Zealand’s picturesque countryside, offering an awe-inspiring backdrop to the Hobbiton experience.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Hobbiton Movie Set tour offers visitors a full-day experience, departing from Tauranga, New Zealand, to explore the iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

Travelers will get behind-the-scenes insights into the creation of the Hobbiton film set, walking through the very Hobbit Holes and landscapes that brought the stories to life on the silver screen.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy stunning views of New Zealand’s picturesque countryside.

The tour includes a complimentary drink at the charming Green Dragon Inn, providing a truly immersive experience for both die-hard LOTR fans and those new to the films.

Inclusions and Logistics

A 12-seater, air-conditioned van provides transportation for the Hobbiton Movie Set tour, with a local driver/guide offering live commentary throughout the journey.

Port pickup and drop-off are available for the convenience of travelers, and entry to the Hobbiton Movie Set is included in the tour.

Customers can take advantage of the tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, and the small group size, capped at 11 travelers, ensures a personalized experience.

The tour’s inclusions and logistics are designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for guests, from the comfortable transportation to the flexibility of the cancellation policy and the intimate group setting.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Meeting point for the Hobbiton Movie Set tour is the Port of Tauranga Ltd, located at 2 Salisbury Avenue, Mount Maunganui 3116, New Zealand.

Travelers should look for the WICKED WANDERS sign on the grassy mound opposite the port gates. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

The tour operates with a 12-seater, air-conditioned van, and a local driver/guide provides live commentary throughout.

Port pickup and drop-off are available, making it convenient for those arriving by cruise ship.

With a maximum of 11 travelers per tour, the experience is designed to be personalized and intimate, allowing guests to fully enjoy the magical world of Hobbiton.

Reviews and Customer Feedback

According to the information provided, the Hobbiton Movie Set tour has an impressive 5.0 overall rating from 53 reviews.

Customers have consistently praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, as well as the overall organization of the tour.

Many reviews highlight the scenic stops at McLaren Falls and kiwi orchards as enhancing the overall experience, appealing to both Lord of the Rings fans and those new to the films.

Reviewers emphasize the tour’s ability to provide behind-the-scenes insights into the creation of the Hobbiton film set, allowing visitors to enjoy the iconic locations from the beloved films.

With high customer satisfaction and positive feedback, the Hobbiton Movie Set tour seems to deliver an engaging and memorable experience for all who partake.

Additional Information

Although the Hobbiton Movie Set tour is suitable for most travelers, it’s important to note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible. However, the tour operators do allow service animals, catering to visitors with special needs. Plus, while minimal assistance may be required for embarking and disembarking, the vast majority of participants can comfortably join the tour.

Accessibility	Details
Service Animals Allowed	✓
Wheelchair Accessibility	✗
Minimal Assistance Required	✓

The tour operators encourage booking in advance due to the high demand for this popular attraction. By planning ahead, visitors can secure their spot and ensure a seamless and memorable experience exploring the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set.

Exploring the Iconic Hobbiton

Stepping into the enchanting world of Hobbiton, visitors are transported back in time, immersed in the idyllic pastoral setting that served as the backdrop for the beloved Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies.

The iconic Hobbit holes dot the lush green hills, each with its own unique door and architectural details that bring the Shire to life.

Strolling through the carefully manicured gardens and past the iconic Mill, guests can imagine the daily lives of the Hobbit inhabitants.

The highlight for many is the chance to visit the Green Dragon Inn and enjoy a complimentary beverage, just as Frodo, Bilbo, and the Fellowship once did.

This immersive experience offers a true taste of Middle-earth.

Behind-the-Scenes Insights

Beyond the enchanting scenery of Hobbiton lies a captivating behind-the-scenes story that brings the movie magic to life. Visitors on the Hobbiton Movie Set tour gain exclusive insights into the painstaking efforts required to transform this rural New Zealand location into the iconic Shire. The tour guides share fascinating details about the intricate set design, the construction of the Hobbit Holes, and the meticulous landscaping that created the lush, picturesque environment. Guests are amazed by the level of detail and attention that went into every aspect of the set, from the perfectly manicured gardens to the charming, lived-in interiors of the Hobbit Holes.

Fact	Detail
Set Construction	Over 37 Hobbit Holes built, each with unique interiors
Landscaping	1,200 trees planted, many transplanted from other locations
Prop Design	Thousands of hand-crafted props and decorations throughout the set
Post-Production	Careful editing and visual effects blended the set with the surrounding landscape
Longevity	The set has been maintained and updated for over 20 years

Stunning Countryside Views

The Hobbiton Movie Set tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through New Zealand’s breathtaking countryside, offering stunning panoramic vistas that transport them directly into the enchanting world of Middle-earth.

As the tour winds its way through the lush, rolling hills, guests are treated to awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape, which served as the backdrop for many iconic scenes from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.

The verdant pastures, serene lakes, and distant mountains provide a serene and picturesque setting, perfectly complementing the whimsical charm of the Hobbiton movie set itself.

This immersive experience allows visitors to fully enjoy the magical world of Tolkien’s beloved stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed on the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed on the Hobbiton Movie Set tour, though certain restrictions may apply. Visitors are encouraged to check with the tour guide for any specific photography guidelines or rules during the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks on the Hobbiton Movie Set tour. However, there’s a licensed cafe on-site where guests can purchase refreshments as well. The tour doesn’t provide any meals, so bringing a snack is recommended.

Do I Need to Be a Lord of the Rings Fan to Enjoy the Tour?

No, one doesn’t need to be a Lord of the Rings fan to enjoy the Hobbiton Movie Set tour. The tour offers a unique insight into the filming process and stunning New Zealand scenery, appealing to both fans and those new to the films.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with guests exploring iconic Hobbit Hole locations and other film set areas. While some assistance may be required, the tour is generally accessible to most travelers with minimal help when embarking and disembarking.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the Hobbiton Movie Set tour. The tour welcomes travelers of all ages, though minimal assistance may be required for embarking and disembarking. Children are welcome to join the tour alongside adults.

Recap

This captivating 6-hour Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Tauranga, New Zealand, offers a unique opportunity to explore the iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Enjoy the enchanting Shire, with its Hobbit holes and manicured gardens, while enjoying behind-the-scenes insights and stunning views of the picturesque New Zealand countryside.

The tour includes transportation, a complimentary drink, and an unforgettable experience for any fan of the beloved fantasy series.