How to Plan Your Waikato: Hobbiton Movie Set Guided Tour Ticket

If you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit trilogies, visiting the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata is a must-do activity. The stunning landscapes of The Shire are just mesmerizing, and the Hobbit holes in the rolling hillsides create a magical atmosphere that will transport you to a world like no other.

To make your Hobbiton experience unforgettable, it’s important to plan your visit before arriving. Let’s dive into how to plan your Waikato: Hobbiton Movie Set Guided Tour Ticket.

Booking Your Ticket

The first step in planning your Hobbiton experience is booking your ticket. You can book through GetYourGuide. The ticket covers entry into the Hobbiton Movie Set and a guided tour.

If you have a specific date in mind, we recommend booking in advance to ensure your slot. Keep in mind that the tours are subject to availability, so booking early is recommended.

Getting to Matamata

Matamata is a small town located in the Waikato region. If you’re coming from Auckland, the drive is approximately two hours. If you don’t have a car, you can take a bus or join a guided tour that includes transportation.

If you’re driving, make sure to have a GPS or a map to guide you, as some roads can be tricky to navigate. Also, allocate enough time for your journey, factoring in potential traffic and stops.

What to Expect on Your Hobbiton Guided Tour?

You can expect a truly immersive experience on your tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set. The guided tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours and takes you through the extensive 12-acre set.

Your guide will share fascinating stories and behind-the-scenes secrets about the set as you explore the rambling paths of The Shire. You’ll also get a chance to take photos in front of one of the many Hobbit Holes and enjoy a drink at The Green Dragon Inn.

What’s Included in Your Ticket?

Your ticket includes entry into the Hobbiton Movie Set and a guided tour with a live tour guide in English. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit The Green Dragon Inn and take a photo in front of a Hobbit Hole.

Water and tea are included in your ticket, but alcoholic drinks are not. Plan to bring extra cash if you’d like to purchase any additional food, drinks, or souvenirs.

Additional Tips for Your Hobbiton Experience

Here are some additional tips to help make your Hobbiton experience even more enjoyable:

• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a bit of walking involved
• Plan for the weather. In New Zealand, weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers and waterproof gear if needed.
• Don’t forget to bring your camera or phone to capture the magic of The Shire.
• Respect the set and listen to your guide’s instructions as you explore the area.

Now that you know how to plan your Waikato: Hobbiton Movie Set Guided Tour Ticket, you’re all set for a magical journey in The Shire. Book your ticket, plan your journey, and get ready to embark on an adventure you’ll never forget.

Welcome to Waikato: An Insider’s Guide to New Zealand’s Hidden Gem

Waikato, known for its stunning landscapes and bustling cities, is arguably one of the most underrated destinations in New Zealand. With its rich Maori culture, rugged coastlines, and wild west coast beaches, it offers numerous unique experiences for travelers. Here is an insider’s guide to the lesser-known but still incredible places to visit in Waikato.

Local Attractions: Discover Hidden Gems

When it comes to local attractions, many are drawn to the region’s famous Hobbiton Movie Set. Few people are aware of the incredible Otorohanga Kiwi House and Native Bird Park. Here, visitors can appreciate New Zealand’s unique birdlife up close – including the elusive kiwi bird. At the Fantasy Cave in Hamilton, an enchanting world of faeries, dragons, and witches awaits.

For nature lovers, a visit to Raglan is a must. With its rolling hills and powdery black beaches, Raglan is a hub for surfing and rural tourism. Want to enjoy some stargazing? Head to Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you’ll be spellbound by a dazzling display of glowing worms light up the underground caves.

Dining Spots: Satisfy Your Taste Buds

A trip to Waikato wouldn’t be complete without experiencing some authentic New Zealand cuisine. For the freshest seafood in town, try out the Catch 22 Brasserie in Taupo. The town of Cambridge has become renowned for its gastronomic scene, and one must try dish is the Cambridge Creamy Chicken Pie.

For a quick lunch, check out Sal’s Pizza in Hamilton. They offer gourmet slices that will take you straight to NYC. Looking for something more upscale? Head to Gothenburg Restaurant in Orakei Korako, where you can savor European-inspired cuisine in a jaw-dropping natural setting.

Cultural Experiences: Dive into Maori Culture

The Waikato region offers a wealth of cultural experiences and is home to some of the most significant Maori sites in New Zealand. Visit the Wai o Tapu Thermal Wonderland and immerse yourself in the Maori culture and traditions of thermal bathing. The Tamahere Country Market showcases the local art and culture in Waikato and is held every month.

For an authentic Maori cultural experience, visit the Maori village of Ohinemutu in Rotorua. You’ll have the opportunity to observe Maori cultural art, music, dance, and food.

Local History: Tales of the Past

The Waikato region has a long and storied history, with plenty of tales of adventure, loss, and triumph to tell. Visit the Waitomo Caves, where the local Maori people reportedly hid from enemies. The remains of an ancient Maori village, the Te Wairoa Buried Village, are preserved in the beautiful Lake Tarawera.

Hamilton’s retro Streetwise Coffee Shop is also steeped in history. Built-in 1910, it has a rich past involving alcohol prohibition and illicit gambling – evidence of which is apparent with hidden cupboards and secret escape routes.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For a unique experience in Waikato, rent a bike and ride the stunning Hauraki Rail Trail, a 160-kilometer casual cycle that follows the path of old railway tracks. In Raglan, you’ll find unique accommodations to suit all traveler types: try a yurt for an unforgettable glamping experience.

New Zealanders have an obsession with farm animals, especially sheep. So why not get in on the action with a sheep shearing experience in Waikato. Try the Shearing Shed Experience in Hamilton, where you’ll learn about the history, process and have the chance to shear a sheep yourself.

So there you have it, an insider’s guide to Waikato, New Zealand’s hidden gem. From the stunning natural beauty and thrilling adventures to the unique culture and cuisine, Waikato has it all. Get off the beaten path, and you’ll surely discover something unforgettable.