For a slice of Hobbit heaven, visit the Hobbiton Movie Set

Picture yourself bare-footed, meandering lazily around the rolling hills of your quiet Hobbiton township, gently making your way towards your favourite inn. Does this halfling life sound like it's for you? Well, you should drive from Hamilton just 45 minutes to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set, near Matamata.

The Hobbiton Movie Set

On the sheep farm in which Sir Peter Jackson filmed his world-famous trilogies, you can indulge in the relaxing life of a Hobbit for yourself.

With a Hobbiton Movie Set guided tour you will be launching yourself into a Tolkien enthusiast's dream. The tour starts with a drive through the local sheep farm, where the location is based, and a friendly guide will lead you the rest of the way.

As you walk around, try to spot all of the 12 masterfully constructed Hobbit holes that still stand. At the end of the car park, there are also signs and boards detailing the exact camera angles used in the movies, offering a little insight into the workings of such a big production. Around the town, you can spot Bag End, the Party Tree, the Mill and plenty more iconic locations from the films – with their tales recounted to you by the knowledgeable guide.

Even more exciting is a trip to the local Shire inn, the Green Dragon. Though the interior of this pub was shot in Wellington, the entire thing has been lovingly recreated on-site so that you can come and laugh, drink and enjoy the charming ambiance as though you were a Hobbit yourself. They even have their own brewery - Southfarthing - so you can enjoy some authentic Middle Earth drinks such as ale and cider!

For the ultimate experience in Hobbit heaven, make sure you drive to the Hobbiton Movie Set on your next New Zealand cultural adventure.