Hobbiton Movie Set

The fully functional film set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, preserved on a working farm near Matamata. Visitors can walk through Hobbiton village, visit the Green Dragon Inn, and experience the magic of Middle-earth firsthand.

Things to do

• Bag End Tour — Step inside Bilbo's iconic hobbit-hole and explore the meticulously preserved interior with period furnishings and authentic set details.
• Green Dragon Inn Experience — Visit the working tavern where you can order a pint of ale or cider and enjoy refreshments in the same setting used during filming.
• Hobbiton Village Walk — Stroll through the 12-acre village passing 44 hobbit holes, the Mill, and other Middle-earth structures nestled into the rolling Waikato farmland.
• Party Tree and Mill — Visit the iconic Party Tree where Bilbo's birthday celebration took place and the working water mill that anchors the village center.
• Hobbiton Photo Opportunities — Capture memorable photos at carefully designed viewpoints throughout the set, including bridges, gardens, and character homes.
• Guided Tour Groups — Join a knowledgeable guide who shares behind-the-scenes stories, filming anecdotes, and details about the set construction and preservation.
• Shire Post Office — Browse and send postcards from the movie set's working post office, a unique way to share your visit with friends and family.

Food to try

• Green Dragon Ale — A specially brewed ale served at the Green Dragon Inn that captures the spirit of hobbit refreshment culture from the films.
• Hobbiton Ale and Cider Selection — The inn offers a curated selection of New Zealand craft beers and ciders paired with the immersive Middle-earth dining experience.
• Traditional Hobbit-Inspired Meals — The Green Dragon serves hearty pub fare including meat pies, fish and chips, and comfort foods that reflect the hobbit love of good eating.
• Southfarthing Pipe-weed Themed Beverages — Specialty drinks inspired by Middle-earth lore are crafted to enhance the authentic atmosphere of the Shire tavern experience.

Local customs & good to know

• Book Guided Tours in Advance — Hobbiton operates on a timed-ticket system with guided tours only, so reservations are essential especially during peak summer seasons.
• Respect the Working Farm — The movie set remains on an active farm, so visitors should stay on marked paths and be mindful of the surrounding agricultural environment and livestock.
• Dress for Variable Weather — The Waikato region experiences changeable weather; bring layers and waterproof jackets as the open hillside location offers little shelter from rain or wind.
• Allow Three to Four Hours — Plan for a full morning or afternoon visit to fully experience the village, participate in guided commentary, and enjoy the Green Dragon without rushing.

Nearby

• Matamata — 8 km
• Cambridge — 22 km
• Tokoroa — 31 km
• Ngaruawahia — 35 km