HOBBITON
If the word strikes a chord with you chances are you're a fan of the Lord of the Rings/Hobbit Trilogy films. I made a trip to New Zealand recently with my son Max and he made it clear that a visit to Hobbiton was priority number one. He tells me that we watched the films together many years ago, to be candid I don't remember much beyond "my precious." I ended up enjoying this excursion much more than I expected and am going to revisit the films to make a deeper connection with "The Shire."
For largest display, click on individual photographs
Hobbiton is built on the Alexander family farm, using 14 of 1200 acres for the films' sets. Located in the Waikato region, It is probably New Zealand's most popular tourist attraction. Hobbiton has drawn over 3.5 million visitors since it opened.
Most of the Hobbit Holes are facades, two Hobbit Holes have built out interiors and can be entered, but watch your head.
The Lush Shire. The grounds are magnificent.
Above left: The Bag End tree is made from fiberglass and has 376,000 silk leaves which were hand applied. On the right, the fishing hole.
Inside a Hobbit Hole, the craftsmanship and detail are amazing.
Working fireplace
Bedroom
Home Office?
Stove
Ding room
Pantry
Kitchen
Picture window
