Nestled in the lush, rolling hills of Matamata, New Zealand, the Hobbiton Movie Set offers a captivating glimpse into the enchanting world of Middle-earth. This guided tour invites visitors to step into the charming, whimsical landscape that served as the backdrop for Peter Jackson’s acclaimed Lord of the Rings and Hobbit film trilogies. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, adventurers can explore iconic Hobbit Holes, the working Mill, and the cozy Green Dragon Inn, all while seeing the rich history and behind-the-scenes stories that bring this magical realm to life. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or simply seeking a unique and immersive experience, the Hobbiton Movie Set guided tour promises to captivate your senses and leave you yearning to uncover more of the Shire’s secrets.
Key Points
- The Hobbiton Movie Set guided tour is a 2.5-hour experience that explores the 12-acre filming location of the LOTR and Hobbit films.
- Approximately 50% of the set is wheelchair accessible, with shuttle bus service and priority seating available for guests with limited mobility.
- The guided tour includes exploring iconic Hobbit Holes, the working Mill, and a complimentary beverage at the Green Dragon Inn.
- The tour is located in Matamata, New Zealand, with easy accessibility from nearby cities like Auckland, Taupo, Rotorua, and Hamilton.
- Tickets for the guided tour are priced at $72.17 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview and Duration
The Hobbiton Movie Set tour offers visitors a guided 2.5-hour experience exploring the 12-acre filming location. This immersive tour allows guests to walk in the footsteps of Frodo, Bilbo, and the other beloved hobbits from the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guides share behind-the-scenes stories and insights, bringing the movie magic to life. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, planning your Hobbiton adventure is easy.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, this guided tour is the perfect way to discover the enchanting world of Middle-earth.
Accessibility and Accommodations
Approximately 50% of the Hobbiton Movie Set is wheelchair accessible, though alternative options must be booked in advance to ensure full accessibility.
The guided tour provides umbrellas for rainy weather, so visitors can explore the set comfortably in any conditions.
For those with limited mobility, the shuttle bus service transports guests from the nearby Shire’s Rest car park to the set entrance, minimizing the walking distance.
Plus, the tour operator offers the following accommodations:
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Priority seating for those with accessibility needs
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Assisted boarding for the shuttle bus
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Designated viewing areas for photos
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Flexible tour pace to accommodate individual needs
With these thoughtful provisions, the Hobbiton Movie Set tour ensures an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Highlights of the Guided Tour
Key highlights of the guided Hobbiton Movie Set tour include exploring the 12-acre filming location, listening to behind-the-scenes stories from the knowledgeable guide, and enjoying a complimentary beverage at the iconic Green Dragon Inn. Guests will discover major filming spots like the Hobbit Holes and the Mill, where movie magic was brought to life. Along the way, the guide shares engaging narratives that provide deeper insights into the set’s creation and the Lord of the Rings/Hobbit films. Capping off the immersive experience, visitors can savor a refreshing drink at the charming Green Dragon Inn, transporting them right into the heart of Middle-earth.
| Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| Hobbit Holes | Explore the intricate Hobbit residences where key scenes were filmed. |
| The Mill | Visit the iconic working mill, a central landmark of the Shire. |
| Green Dragon Inn | Enjoy a complimentary beverage at this quintessential Middle-earth tavern. |
Location and Transportation
Hobbiton Movie Set is located southeast of Hamilton in Matamata, a picturesque town in New Zealand’s Waikato region. Free on-site parking is available, and the drive from Matamata takes approximately 20 minutes.
For visitors, a shuttle bus service operates from the Shire’s Rest car park, transporting them to the 12-acre movie set in just 5-10 minutes. The set is conveniently situated, with nearby journey times of:
- Auckland – 2 hours
- Taupo – 1.5 hours
- Rotorua – 45 minutes
- Hamilton – 45 minutes
Whether you’re coming from nearby cities or planning a more extensive New Zealand adventure, the Hobbiton Movie Set is easily accessible and promises an immersive Middle-earth experience.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyWhat to Bring and Prepare
With the logistics of getting to the Hobbiton Movie Set covered, visitors should next consider what to bring and prepare for their tour. Bringing along a valid passport or ID card is a must, as it’s required for entry. Plus, visitors should wear sensible footwear, as the guided walking tour takes them through the 12-acre movie set.
To help guests prepare, here’s a suggested packing list:
| Item | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Clothing | Comfortable, weather-appropriate attire |
| Footwear | Sturdy, closed-toe shoes |
| Camera | For capturing unforgettable photos |
| Umbrella | Provided, but extra protection can be useful |
Visitors should also note that a construction project is ongoing at the Hobbiton Movie Set until December 2023, so they should check the official website for any updates prior to their visit.
Ongoing Construction Updates
The Hobbiton Movie Set’s ongoing construction project, slated for completion by December 2023, may impact visitors’ experiences and accessibility during their tours. Here are a few key things to note:
Approximately 50% of the set is currently accessible, with alternative options available for those unable to navigate the full tour.
Visitors are advised to check the official website for the latest updates on construction progress and any potential disruptions.
The guided walking tour may require extra caution and flexibility due to ongoing work in certain areas of the expansive 12-acre movie set.
Despite the construction, the tour continues to operate in all weather conditions, with umbrellas provided for rainy days.
Customer Ratings and Feedback
Visitors overwhelmingly praise the Hobbiton Movie Set tour, awarding it an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on over 5,400 reviews.
Reviewers highlight the passionate and enthusiastic tour guides, who bring the movie magic to life with their captivating storytelling.
Families especially appreciate the family-friendly experience, with ample opportunities for photo ops at the iconic set locations.
One visitor from the US noted that the tour was a true ‘bucket list’ item, and they were grateful for the behind-the-scenes insights they gained.
Booking and Reservation Details
Booking the Hobbiton Movie Set tour can be done conveniently online, with tickets priced at $72.17 per person for the guided 2.5-hour experience.
The tour offers several booking benefits:
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Reserve now and pay later option available.
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Wheelchair accessibility, with approximately 50% of the set accessible, though alternative options must be booked in advance.
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Tours operate in all weather conditions, with umbrellas provided for rainy days.
Whether you’re a Lord of the Rings fan or simply seeking a unique New Zealand adventure, the Hobbiton Movie Set tour is an immersive experience that’s easy to book and explore.
Recap
The Hobbiton Movie Set tour in Matamata, New Zealand offers a magical experience for Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fans.
With knowledgeable guides, iconic Hobbit Holes, and the charming Green Dragon Inn, this family-friendly tour immerses visitors in the enchanting world of Middle-earth.
Operating in all weather, the tour’s high customer ratings and accessibility make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of Tolkien’s beloved fantasy realm.
You can check if your dates are available here: