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Rolling green hills of the Waikato near Matamata -home of the Shire Film Set
Fan Favourite North Island Film & Culture

Shire Film Set Day Tour

Step into Middle-earth on the real Hobbiton Movie Set -stroll Bag End Lane, explore all 44 Hobbit holes, and raise a glass at the famous Green Dragon Inn on this guided day tour from Auckland.

Duration
1 Day
Departure
Auckland CBD -7:30am
Group Size
Min 8 people
Best Season
Year Round

Overview

Located on a working sheep and cattle farm just outside Matamata in the Waikato, the Shire Film Set is one of New Zealand's most visited attractions. Constructed for Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies, the meticulously maintained set features 44 Hobbit holes, Bag End, the Party Tree, the Mill, and the iconic Green Dragon Inn. Unlike many film sets, Hobbiton was rebuilt in permanent materials after production -meaning every detail looks exactly as it did on screen. This Skymate day tour delivers a fully guided, immersive Shire experience from Auckland and back in a single day.

Itinerary

  • 07:30: Depart Auckland CBD. Coach heads south through the Waikato corridor with your guide providing commentary on the landscape and filming 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 Shire Film Set -all 44 Hobbit holes, Bag End (exterior), the Mill, the Party Tree, and Green Dragon Inn with a complimentary beverage included.
  • 12:15: Free time in Matamata township for lunch at a local caf (own cost).
  • 13:30: Depart Matamata. Optional stop at a local farm viewpoint en route.
  • 15:30: Estimated return to Auckland CBD.

What's Included

Guided Shire Film Set tour
Green Dragon Inn beverage
Farm shuttle transfer
Skymate guide throughout
Return coach transport
Lunch (own cost)