Hobbiton, Middle Earth

On the way from Coromandel to Rotoura, we stopped off in Middle Earth at the movie set for Hobbiton featured in Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Truly, it’s only a few minutes outside Matamata, but it actually does feel like you’re transported to the Shire. It helps that our tour guide was fantastic, and our tour group had actual fans!

Ryan was excited that so much of the focus was on the movies. Our guide pointed out the paths of actual scenes, knew how many second shots were on film, shared some of the camera tricks and pointed out Peter Jackson’s extreme attention to the detail of the set.

Outside The Green Dragon

The Mill

Gardens were adorable, even in this season. 

Extra 5 hobbit holes built for accuracy in the Hobbit. 

Our new hobbit home! 

Overlooking Hobbiton with the tree that sealed the deal on this location. 

It was truly great fun being Hobbits for the day!