Culture & Travel
24 October 2023New Zealand, where one of the most cherished fantasy film series in cinema history, The Lord of the Rings, was filmed, remains a popular spot for tourists. Director Peter Jackson stumbled upon this place during a trip and was determined to utilize it for his movie. He transformed this area in New Zealand into a Hobbit village, marking the commencement of a fantastic journey. This Hobbit village in New Zealand is situated in the town of Matamata. Currently, it stands as one of the world's top tourist destinations, so much so that various companies globally organize Lord of the Rings tours.
The Hobbit Village attracts 3 thousand visitors daily. 'Hobbiton Movie Set' essentially represents the "Shire" depicted in the movies. Accessing this village requires a significant entry fee. It's not just a money-spinner for Director Jackson's hometown, it has also significantly boosted interest in New Zealand and has laid the groundwork for more movies to be filmed. The subsequent Hobbit trilogy was also shot in this very location.
Originally owned by a farming family, this set, constructed as the village of Hobbiton, was acquired through negotiation with the film crew. The family's only condition was to restore it to its original state once the filming was completed. However, after the movie's immense success, the village of Hobbiton was swamped with visitors. Unable to ignore the heightened interest, the family permitted it to remain as a set for tours. This is the tale behind the establishment.
Marvel at the Wonder of Hobbit Houses
The set is enveloped by various types of Hobbit houses, totaling 39 in number. Nestled within the lush greenery, these charming houses mirror those seen in the movie. The interiors of these dwellings are adorned to replicate the living spaces of Hobbits, showcasing numerous items from the movie. Additionally, the set features other notable sites from the movies such as the Green Dragon Inn, the Double Arch Bridge, the Water Mill, and the Party Tree. Post-production, numerous embellishments were added, expanding the areas and locations available for exploration.
The first series, which commenced filming in the early 2000s, became a sensation, particularly among fantasy enthusiasts of that era. Thanks to this enduring series, interest in the books, comics, and toys that inspired the movies has also soared. While the younger generation of yesteryears and today's adults continue to rewatch the movies, the fervor for this franchise continues to captivate new fans. Fueled by the force of popular culture, the movie's allure shows no signs of diminishing, hence why this New Zealand set continues to allure tourists.
This meticulously crafted movie set astounds visitors with its attention to detail. Aside from the Hobbit houses, the pathways and trees depicted in the movie eagerly await exploration. Each wooden structure represents a labor of love, meticulously hand-painted using the tumbling technique. This painstaking approach creates an authentic, time-worn feel, fostering an immersive experience akin to stepping into the movie itself.
Following the conclusion of filming, not a single detail was altered, preserving every element of the movie. In fact, certain parts of the set were initially slated for dismantling after the release of the first movie, The Fellowship of the Ring, in 2001. However, unable to anticipate the overwhelming fervor for the film, the producers halted the dismantling process, instead opting to enhance the set. To this day, fans from across the globe eagerly flock to this enchanting village, ensuring its enduring legacy for years to come.
How to reach The Hobbit Village?
Getting to the spot where The Lord of the Rings, which has a dedicated fan following in our country, was filmed is entirely feasible. Hobbiton Movie Set sits in the Waikato region at the northern tip of New Zealand, about 15 kilometers from the town of Matamata. Numerous buses depart from the nearby area to facilitate transportation. Making advance reservations is a must to explore this enchanting set, particularly because it tends to draw large crowds, especially during certain seasons. Booking ahead eliminates the risk of missing out on tickets.
How much does it cost to enter the Lord of the Rings Hobbit Village (Hobbiton)?
The entrance fee for the Lord of the Rings Hobbit village starts at 1514 TL. The pricing varies depending on the type of visit. Opting for a guided tour offers more flexibility in pricing. The standard 2-hour tour comes at this rate, but longer tours, like private tours and evening tours with dinner, come at an increased price. Since the fees are in dollars, it's advisable to factor in the dollar exchange rate before purchasing a ticket.
BONUS: Hobbit Villages in Turkey
For those unable to journey to New Zealand or afford the expenses, it's worth noting that there are Hobbit villages in our own country. Specially designed Hobbit houses in Sivas and Kocaeli are open for visitors. The Sivas Hobbit Houses are conveniently close to the city center, situated in the Paşabahçe Recreation Area, with easy accessibility. The Hobbit Houses in Kocaeli are located in Ormanya Uzun Tarla Nature Park.
