Road Trip to New Zealand, 25 January – 09 February 2025

Hobbiton

Hobbiton

This enchanting location, a sprawling 12-acre landscape, is a living, breathing tribute to a beloved literary world. It is a place where visitors can step in...
In the heart of the North Island, a magical realm exists, a place where fantasy meets reality. This enchanting location, a sprawling 12-acre landscape, is a living, breathing tribute to a beloved literary world. It is a place where visitors can step into the shoes of their favorite characters and explore the lush pastures, charming gardens, and quaint hobbit holes that have been meticulously recreated to mirror the descriptions in the books and the scenes in the movies.

The history of this enchanting place dates back to 1998 when it was discovered during an aerial search for the perfect filming location. The rolling hills, the large pine tree by the lake, and the overall serene atmosphere made it the ideal setting for the cinematic adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle Earth. The original set was not built to last, but due to the overwhelming interest from fans worldwide, it was rebuilt in 2011 using permanent materials, allowing it to become a permanent tourist attraction.

The highlights of this magical realm are numerous. The Green Dragon Inn, a replica of the pub frequented by the characters in the books, offers visitors a chance to sample traditional hobbit fare and beverages. The Party Tree, a large, majestic tree under which many a hobbit celebration has taken place, stands tall and proud, a testament to the joyous spirit of the hobbits. The hobbit holes, with their round doors and windows, are scattered across the landscape, each one unique and full of character.

A guided tour of this enchanting place offers visitors a chance to learn about the intricate details that went into creating this world. From the artificial tree with hand-painted leaves to the hobbit-sized furniture, every element has been carefully crafted to transport visitors into the world of the hobbits. The attention to detail is astounding, making it a truly immersive experience.

This magical realm is not just a tourist attraction, but a celebration of the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of a beloved literary world. It is a place where fantasy comes to life, where visitors can step into a storybook and experience the magic firsthand. It is a testament to the creativity, imagination, and hard work that went into bringing a fictional world to life.