Hobbiton Movie Set, Waikato:

The Hobbiton Movie Set, located in Waikato, New Zealand, is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a chance to explore the enchanting world of Middle-earth from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogies. Here’s a detailed description of the Hobbiton Movie Set, including visitor information, transportation, things to do, why people enjoy coming here, the age of the place, additional nearby attractions, and a list of activities:

Visitor Fee:

There is an admission fee to access the Hobbiton Movie Set. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the standard adult ticket costs approximately NZD 84, and the child ticket (ages 9-16) costs around NZD 42. Infants (ages 0-8) can enter free of charge. Various tour options are available, including guided tours and private tours, which may have different pricing and inclusions. It’s advisable to check for the latest visitor fees and tour packages before your visit.

Transportation:

The Hobbiton Movie Set is located in Matamata, a rural town in the Waikato region. Here are the transportation options to reach Hobbiton:

1. Car: You can drive to Hobbiton from major cities like Auckland or Hamilton. The journey takes approximately two hours from Auckland and around one hour from Hamilton. Car rentals are available, and there is ample parking at the movie set.
2. Guided Tours: Many tour operators offer guided tours to Hobbiton from various locations, including Auckland and Rotorua. These tours typically include transportation, guiding services, and admission to the movie set.

Things to Do:

The Hobbiton Movie Set provides an immersive experience into the magical world of Middle-earth. Here are some popular things to do at the Hobbiton Movie Set:

1. Guided Tour: Take a guided tour of the movie set, led by knowledgeable guides who share behind-the-scenes stories and fascinating details about the filming locations. Explore the picturesque Hobbit holes, the Mill, and other iconic structures that bring Tolkien’s world to life.
2. Visit the Green Dragon Inn: Conclude your tour with a visit to the Green Dragon Inn, where you can enjoy a complimentary drink (included in the ticket) and experience the cozy atmosphere of a traditional Hobbit tavern.
3. Photography: Capture memorable photos of the Hobbiton Movie Set, including the charming Hobbit holes, lush gardens, and beautiful landscapes. The set provides numerous photo opportunities that transport you into the magical realm of Middle-earth.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

People are drawn to the Hobbiton Movie Set for its enchanting atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and connection to the beloved “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogies. Visitors can immerse themselves in the fantasy world created by Peter Jackson’s film adaptations and experience the meticulous attention to detail that went into building the set. The picturesque landscape, quaint Hobbit holes, and lush gardens make visitors feel like they’ve stepped into Tolkien’s novels. The tour provides an opportunity to relive iconic scenes and learn about the filmmaking process, making it a dream come true for fans of the books and movies.

Age of the Place:

The Hobbiton Movie Set was originally built for the filming of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy in 1999 and was later reconstructed for “The Hobbit” trilogy in 2009. The current movie set is meticulously maintained to preserve its authenticity and has become a permanent tourist attraction since then.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

In addition to the Hobbiton Movie Set, there are other notable attractions and activities in the nearby region of Waikato:

1. Waitomo Glowworm Caves: Explore the stunning Waitomo Glowworm Caves, famous for their luminescent glowworms. Take a boat tour through the caves and marvel at the captivating glowworm displays.
2. Matamata: The town of Matamata, where Hobbiton is located, offers charming shops, cafes, and the opportunity to explore the local countryside. Take a stroll through Matamata’s streets and experience the rural beauty of the region.

List of Activities:

• Guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set
• Visit the Green Dragon Inn and enjoy a complimentary drink
• Photography and capturing memorable moments
• Exploring nearby Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Exploring the town of Matamata

Please note that availability of activities, operating hours, and fees may vary, so it’s advisable to check for the latest information and make reservations in advance for the best experience during your visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set.