Introduction
If you’ve ever watched The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit and found yourself wishing the Shire were real, you’re not alone. Nestled in the rolling green hills of New Zealand’s North Island, Hobbiton is a place where movie magic truly comes to life. With its cosy Hobbit holes, lush gardens, and the iconic Green Dragon Inn, it feels like stepping straight into Middle-earth.
But where exactly is Hobbiton, and what makes it so special to visit in person? Whether you’re a fan of the films or simply curious about one of New Zealand’s most beloved spots, here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Where is Hobbiton located?
The Hobbiton Movie Set is located just outside the small town of Matamata, in the Waikato region of New Zealand’s North Island. It sits on a private farm surrounded by rolling green hills, which made it the perfect spot to bring the peaceful Shire to life on screen.
The set is about:
- 2.5 hours from Auckland.
- 1.5 hours from Waitomo.
- 45 minutes from Rotorua.
- 45 minutes from Hamilton.
The address you’ll need for your GPS is: 501 Buckland Road, Hinuera, Matamata 3472.
There’s also plenty of free parking onsite, and the entrance is marked with Hobbiton signs — you can’t miss it!
From City to Shire: how to get there
Getting to Hobbiton is part of the adventure, and there are a few different ways to travel depending on where you’re starting from and what kind of experience you’re after.
- By Car
Driving is the easiest and most flexible option. The roads are well signposted, and the drive takes you through beautiful New Zealand countryside.=
- By Tour
If you’d rather sit back and relax, guided tours are available from major cities like Auckland, Rotorua, and Hamilton.
These tours usually include transport to and from Hobbiton, your movie set entry ticket, and a guide who’ll share stories along the way. Some also include lunch (private tours) or stops at nearby attractions.
- By Bus (Public Transportation)
Public buses run to Matamata, but there’s no direct service to the movie set itself. Once you get to Matamata, you’ll need to take a taxi or a pre-arranged shuttle to Hobbiton (about 20 minutes away). This option works, but it’s less convenient than driving or taking a tour.
Exploring Hobbiton: What’s Waiting for You
Walking through Hobbiton feels like stepping into a real-life fairytale. It’s not just a film set — it’s a place full of charm and detail, where every corner looks like it belongs in a storybook. The tour starts with a gentle stroll through the green hills of the Shire, guided by someone who knows all the little secrets and stories that make the place special.
As you wander along winding paths, you’ll pass dozens of colourful Hobbit Holes, each one carefully designed with its own unique touches — from tiny mailboxes to rustic garden tools. Your guide will share interesting stories from the films and fun behind-the-scenes moments that bring everything to life, even if you’ve seen the movies a hundred times.
Famous spots like The Mill, The Party Tree, and The Green Dragon Inn are all part of the journey. And yes, you’ll get to enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon itself — brewed just for visitors to Hobbiton. It’s a relaxing way to wrap up your visit and take in the atmosphere.
Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged — this place is packed with photo-worthy views.
Planning your visit: The best time to see Hobbiton
There’s never really a bad time to visit Hobbiton — the set is open year-round, and each season brings its own kind of magic.
- Summer (December to February) is when the Shire looks like it’s straight out of the movies. The hills are a vibrant green, the gardens are in full bloom, and the weather is usually warm and sunny. It’s the perfect time for photos, but also the busiest, so booking ahead is a must if you’re visiting during the holidays or school break.
- Autumn (March to May) might just be a hidden gem. The crowds are a little smaller, the weather is mild, and the changing leaves add rich golden colours to the landscape — it’s honestly breathtaking.
Whatever time of year you go, make sure to check the forecast before your tour. Most tours run rain or shine, so comfortable walking shoes and a light rain jacket are always a good idea. And trust us — even on a misty day, Hobbiton still feels magical (maybe even more so!).
If you’ve got a specific date in mind, it’s worth booking early. Tours can sell out quickly, especially during weekends and peak seasons.
Unlocking the Best Travel Tips
- Comfy shoes are a must – Hobbiton is a walking tour, so make sure your feet are ready for some adventure.
- Be Prepared for the Weather – The weather can change quickly, so layering is a good idea. If you’re visiting in the summer, make sure to bring a sunhat and apply sunblock to stay cool and protected from the sun
- Don’t forget your camera (or phone) – Trust me, you’ll want to capture every corner of this magical place, so make sure you’ve got plenty of storage for all those amazing photos.
- Book your tour early – Hobbiton is super popular, and tours fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. It’s always best to reserve your spot ahead of time.
- Go for the early morning or late afternoon – If you can, aim for these times for softer lighting and fewer crowds — perfect for those picture-perfect shots.
- Ask your guide plenty of questions – They know all the behind-the-scenes secrets and love sharing hidden gems. You’ll get a deeper, richer experience when you dive into their stories.
- Stay hydrated – Hobbiton is a lot of fun to explore, but you’ll be walking around quite a bit. Make sure to bring a water bottle to stay refreshed throughout your adventure.
Hidden Gems & Surprising Facts About Hobbiton
Here are a few little gems that make the experience even more magical:
- It started as a sheep farm! The entire movie set is built on a family-owned farm in Matamata. When the filmmakers were scouting for rolling green hills, this place was the perfect match — and it still runs as a working sheep farm today!
- There are 44 Hobbit Holes — all unique. Each one has its own design, details, and personality. Some are big enough to walk into, while others were made smaller to create that classic “Hobbit-sized” look on camera.
- The oak tree above Bag End is fake! Yep, it’s completely artificial — and every single leaf was hand-painted and attached by the crew. Talk about movie magic!
- The set was rebuilt to last. Originally, Hobbiton was a temporary film set, but it was rebuilt in 2011 using permanent materials so fans could visit it just as it appeared in the movies.
- The Green Dragon Inn serves real drinks. At the end of your tour, you’ll be treated to a drink at the iconic inn, brewed just for Hobbiton, and only available on site!
Wrapping Up the Magic
Hobbiton is a place that really feels like it’s come straight out of a storybook. Even if you’re not a big fan of the films, it’s hard not to be amazed by the peaceful countryside, the cute little Hobbit Holes, and the feeling that you’ve stepped into another world.
From walking through the Shire to relaxing with a drink at The Green Dragon Inn, every part of the tour is fun, unique, and full of charm.
If you’re visiting New Zealand, Hobbiton is definitely worth adding to your plans. It’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after your trip is over.
