“I’m going on an adventure!”
It’s the classic line from the young hobbit, Bilbo, after he leaps over a pumpkin and runs along a grassy lane in a scene from The Hobbit movie, directed by Peter Jackson and inspired by JRR Tolkien’s book by the same name.
The line was repeated continuously by members of my family (my husband being the chief culprit), on our day trip from Auckland to the Hobbiton Movie Set (Hobbiton for short), located near Matamata. It’s about a two-hour drive from Auckland, and the scenery is stunning: grassy hills, mountain ranges and spots of sheep.
Getting there
The best way to Hobbiton from Auckland is via the motorway (Highway 1) south, turning off at Highway 27 and following the signs to Matamata. Some GPS/map programs suggest taking the route near/through Hamilton, we tried this way coming home and the numerous speed restrictions between Auckland and Hamilton made this a longer drive. Once in Matamata, the movie set is a further 15-minute drive, and well signed so it’s easy to find.
About the Hobbiton Movie Set
Hobbiton is tucked away at the back of a working farm owned by the Alexander family. The set is spectacular, covering a surprisingly large area of rolling green hills; you’re instantly transported to The Shire. The hobbit holes are remarkable, and I couldn’t help but feel I was wandering through a working village. There’s a vegetable garden, jars of jam along the wayside, fish beside the lake and rocking chairs sitting quaintly outside brightly coloured round doors. Letterboxes, lanterns, bench seats, cushions, walking sticks, flowers, stepping stones and chimneys – it all adds to the air of magic,. We enjoyed placing the locations seen in the movie with the real life set. Our guide Sam was approachable and knowledgeable about all things Hobbiton, and although he had a schedule to keep, he gave us plenty of time to explore and take photos.
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