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Rolling green hills of the Waikato near Matamata
North Island 1 Day Film & Culture

Hobbiton Movie Set & Hamilton Gardens

Walk through the real Shire -explore the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set on a working Waikato farm, then discover the world-class themed gardens of Hamilton on the same day trip.

Duration
1 Day
Departure
Auckland CBD -7:30am
Group Size
Min 10 people
Best Season
Year Round

Overview

Nestled on a 1,250-acre working sheep and cattle farm in the Waikato, the Hobbiton Movie Set was constructed for Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings and Hobbit film trilogies. Today it stands as one of New Zealand's most popular attractions -a meticulously maintained permanent set where visitors wander Bag End Lane, admire the 44 Hobbit holes, and enjoy a drink at the famous Green Dragon Inn. This Skymate day tour combines the Hobbiton experience with the extraordinary Hamilton Gardens.

Itinerary

  • 07:30: Depart Auckland CBD. Coach heads south through the Waikato with commentary on local farming history.
  • 09:30: Arrive at the Hobbiton farm gate near Matamata. Board the farm shuttle to the set entrance.
  • 09:45 -12:00: Guided walking tour of the Movie Set -all 44 Hobbit holes, Bag End, the mill, and the Green Dragon Inn with a complimentary beverage.
  • 12:30: Drive to Hamilton for lunch at a local caf (own cost) near the Waikato River.
  • 13:30 -15:30: Hamilton Gardens -highlights of the Japanese Garden, Tudor Garden, and Surrealist Garden.
  • 16:00: Depart Hamilton. Return to Auckland.
  • 18:00: Estimated return to Auckland CBD.

What's Included

Hobbiton guided tour
Green Dragon Inn drink
Hamilton Gardens entry
Farm shuttle at Hobbiton
Skymate guide
Return coach transport
Lunch (own cost)