Hobbiton Movie Set

Waikato

90/100150 min

The Hobbiton Movie Set is a renowned film location situated on a family-owned farm in the Waikato region of New Zealand. It served as the picturesque town of Hobbiton in both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies directed by Peter Jackson. The set features 37 hobbit holes, a mill, a double arch bridge, and the iconic Bag End with a large oak tree, all crafted to evoke the charm of J.R.R. Tolkien's Shire. Originally a livestock farm, the site was transformed beginning in 1999 with detailed facades and natural landscaping to create a lived-in, authentic atmosphere. After initial filming, much of the set was dismantled, but due to popular demand and weather conditions, part of it was preserved and rebuilt permanently for the later Hobbit films. Today, visitors can enjoy guided tours of the 14-acre set, exploring the intricate details and hearing stories about the movie magic behind the scenes. The location’s rolling green hills and pastoral beauty continue to captivate fans and tourists alike, making Hobbiton a unique blend of cinematic history and New Zealand’s natural landscape.

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Astuce: Tours of the Hobbiton Movie Set require advance booking, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. The best time to visit is during the New Zealand spring and summer months for pleasant weather and vibrant scenery. Guided tours last approximately 2.5 hours and include detailed storytelling and access to key film locations. Discounts are sometimes available for youth and families. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and may consider booking special event tours for extended experiences. Children must be accompanied by a full-paying adult and have a ticket allocated.

Faits intéressants

  • The oak tree above Bag End was cut down near Matamata and recreated on site with artificial leaves to appear realistic in the films.
  • Thatch on the pub and mill roofs was made from rushes grown on the farm itself.
  • The New Zealand Army helped construct access roads and initial groundwork for the set in 1999.
  • The site covers approximately 14 acres and includes 37 hobbit holes, though only 18 were preserved after filming.
  • Ian McKellen reprised his role as Gandalf the Grey during filming at Hobbiton for The Hobbit trilogy.

Histoire

1999

The Hobbiton Movie Set was established in 1999 on the Alexander family's sheep and beef farm, chosen by director Peter Jackson for its resemblance to an idyllic English countryside.

Initially constructed as temporary facades for The Lord of the Rings trilogy, the set was partially dismantled after filming.

2010

However, due to its popularity and weather conditions, parts were preserved and later rebuilt more permanently for The Hobbit trilogy starting in 2010.

2002

Since 2002, the site has operated as a tourist attraction offering guided tours, becoming a significant destination for Tolkien fans worldwide.

Guide du lieu

1
Bag End1999
Set Decorator Alan Lee and production team

The iconic hobbit hole home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, featuring a large oak tree and detailed garden, representing the heart of Hobbiton.

2
Hobbit Holes1999
Film production team

37 hobbit hole facades scattered across the set, showcasing the quaint and charming homes of Hobbiton residents. Only 18 were preserved after initial filming.

3
The Mill and Double Arch Bridge1999
Film production team

A picturesque water mill and a distinctive double arch bridge that are key landmarks within Hobbiton, adding to the village’s rustic charm.

Contact

Téléphone: 07 888 1505