Waikato & Waitomo
Hobbiton Movie Set
Step into the heart of Middle-earth on the original movie set nestled in the Waikato countryside.
About this place
Hobbiton Movie Set offers guided tours through the meticulously crafted village of The Shire, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies. The site, a former sheep farm, was chosen for its rolling green hills and picturesque landscape that perfectly matched the descriptions of Hobbiton. Your guide shares stories about the filmmaking process and how the landscape was transformed into a believable slice of Middle-earth.
The tour explores the village, passing dozens of unique Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and the iconic Party Tree before culminating at The Green Dragon Inn. Here, visitors can enjoy a complimentary, specially brewed beverage inside a faithful recreation of the hobbits' favourite watering hole. The incredible attention to detail, from the weathered paint on the doors to the tended gardens, makes the experience feel truly immersive.
Time needed
Half a day
Best time
The set is beautiful year-round, though the gardens are especially lush and colourful in spring and summer.
Practical tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves walking on unpaved and uneven paths.
- It's highly recommended to book your tour well in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons, as places are limited.
- Keep your camera ready, but also be prepared to stay with your tour group to maintain the schedule.