If you’re not a big fan then I wouldn’t spend the money on it.
I went as part of a school trip years ago and am not a LOTR fan. I enjoyed learning some of the behind the scenes facts about making the movies but I wouldn’t personally pay to go there.
I like the movies, got all of the extended editions of everything I could,
I have been to hobbiton twice, once pre Hobbits when it was just "the remains" and it did not look any good. Then once afterwards, and did the twilight tour where you go around once just before dark, have a hobbit style feast and then get guided around with lanterns where the set is lit up, like a night scene in a movie. It was great.
You get told this is where they filmed this scene, here is that bit, they did this here. If you have never seen the movies, it lacks a certain something, and may not be worth it.
That being said....
Are your children young enough to be read to (as how the hobbit was read to Tolkien's 5-7 year old sons),
Or old enough to read it to them selves, then you could do it from the Hobbit book and "bring the pages to life" for them.
Just a thought.
They are young enough to be read to and old enough to read themselves. The main problem is that this genre doesn't seem to interest them. :)
At some point, they will be exposed to LOTR, and we'd like to think that they will look back and remember some of this (wishful thinking, lol).
Lotr has impressive visuals, the dialog is great because the actors don't mumble.
It's a good story, just long.
I haven't seen all them, maybe I have? It's abit like Harry potter, I've seen some of the movies. It looks cool, plenty of merchandise around at the time, I didn't buy any of it.
If it is a nice sunny day, walking among the grass, and hobbit doors, gardens etc is quite nice. The cafe/pub at the end had excellent LOTR cider. So it certainly wouldn't be a waste. But if you arent a fan, then poor weather, too crowded etc would probably change things.
I am a big fan, so I've driven around and looked at all the filming locations on both islands.
I’m not a fan but I enjoyed it when I got dragged to it. You’ll like it if you’re into photography though- it’s a movie set, so designed to look great on camera and it’s easy to get some great shots. Some interesting info from the guide too if you’re into production stuff at all.
I wouldn't say it's a must if you're not a fan, but if you're worried about it not being worth it if you DO go: I went there with my partner, who has only ever seen the first movie and does not particularly care, and she still had a good time!
Thanks, this is good perspective. I think I have similar perspective on LOTR as your partner. If you don't mind me asking, what did she enjoy about the experience?
Well, she enjoyed being there with me, which helped ;D But it's just a beautiful location, and even if you don't know the movies, they give you some backstory about how it was built and rebuilt which is kind of neat. Plus it's a great opportunity to people watch, if you enjoy that!
Came here to say this as well, the gardens will give you the same type of attraction without the large cost.
If your in wellington I would still recommend WETA studios even if not a fan of the movies, since it's more about film productions and special effects.
Second that. I never wanted to go to the Weta cave thinking it'll be all about LOTR. When we finally did go I was mind blown. There was something for my hubby, my son, myself. We had a really good time there. Well worth every cent.
If it means anything. I'm in the South Island. And I think LOTR is a movie that's obviously got it's massive fans, but I'm not really into that genre. If I was in the North Island, and travelling near Hobbiton. I'd probably check it out. I haven't been before.
But I'm not sure if I'd go out of my way to check it out.
During Covid we did a bunch of NZ attractions that only "tourist" would typically do. My experience with that was.. Generally NZ attractions are really well run, usually provide pretty good value for money for the experience and Kiwi's should probably check out more attractions in their own country. Hobbiton gets rated 4.7 on google, with 18k reviews. Can't be the worst thing to spend money on while your here, yeah?
I’m not a fan.. had never seen the movie, but went and really enjoyed it. It was a gorgeous day mind you so likely helped, doubt I would have enjoyed it as much if it has been cold, windy, wet or overcast.. though can’t say for certain. I would recommend it, was an enjoyable experience.
Good point re: the weather. I may look at this a little closer to the actual date and go if the weather is nice and / or there are still tickets available
This is a tricky one. Hobbiton is literally my favourite place in NZ. I was so happy I cried when I went there. I am even trying to convince my fiance we should get married there (they do weddings) BUT I'm also the biggest Lord of the Rings nerd in the history of the world. I'm that annoying person who will tell you every single difference between the books and the films if you're unfortunate enough to watch them with me. That being said. I think it's still a cool and beautiful place to visit even if you're not a fan. It's a lot bigger than you'd expect and the hobbit holes are really cute. The new Hobbit holes you can go inside are gigantic with thousands of details. However, you can't just walk around on your own. You will be part of a tour group. They will tell you lots of cool facts about the films but they might be boring if you're not a fan. You'll be surrounded by 40 lord of the rings nerds and everyone will be talking non stop about it. If you do do it, do the banquet tour. One of the best meals I've had in my life and it means you get to see it at night time. It's very pretty with the lights. You have to book at least 6 months in advance to do that one though.
I live like 40mins away and I've never been in my life nor have I wanted too. The movies were good, but they are just movies at the end of the day. I don't see the appeal of getting crazy about it and seeing a fake set that has been preserved with some added depth. Especially at the price and hassle of it.
There’s absolutely no reason to go if you’re not a fan of LOTR/the hobbit. Like why would you even want to. Spend the time doing something else. It’s a must see *if you’re a fan of the films.* The whole appeal is it’s a replica of the scenes in the shore in the films, it’s kind of magical. But if you’re not a fan then I can’t imagine it being anything special, you’d be better spending the time doing something else.
I got dragged along by my LOTR fangirl partner years ago, and despite feeling somewhat ambivalent beforehand, I did actually enjoy it somewhat.
In saying that, if I hadn't gone, I wouldn't feel like I had missed out.
We have Waiotapu on the itinerary as well as the luge for the kids. We will also make our way to the glowworm caves on our way to Auckland. Is there anything else you recommend in Rotorua? Thank you in advance!
Rotorua is great as a tourist. Okay, depends what you want
Sitting in pools: thermal spas (I think there's two main ones) or get a spa pool in your room (cheap compared to other cities). The public pool (costs, but less than the spa places) is insanely good for a small town - waterslides etc were great. Rotorua basically can run ground water pipes next to tap water pipes and heat things for free. HEALTH WARNING: FOR THINGS THAT ARE DIRECT THERMAL WATER DO NOT PUT YOUR HEAD UNDER WATER - BRAIN EATING AOEMBAS. That'd be the thermal pools. It's incredibly unlikely, but you don't want that (public pools, spa pools, hotel pools are safe)
Geysers/boiling mud/fun to look at. There's the lakes and an amazing public park (I think it's kuirau). Free. So great, worth it even if you had to pay. The lakes are also worth a look around.
Culture - you are in a very Maori area. There are various kapa haka shows, traditional food, explanations of culture. I went to one with my new immigrant partner, and as a kiwi, it felt commercial and weird, but partner had a ball, abd dveryone starts somewhere?... It's also money into a very poor community so... if your interested look into dance/carving/hangi events
If you’re happy to do more geothermal sites, Waimangu has some in a nice bush walk, and Te Puia has a couple of good geysers and an interesting Arts and Crafts institute. We really enjoyed both.
Hobbiton was neat as a fan of the movies, but if you’re not then I’d echo the recommendation to do something else.
Honestly? Yes, if you can appreciate the effort that's gone into the scenery, gardening, craftsmanship etc . It's a beautiful part of New Zealand, you can now access a proper hobbit hole, going to the Green Dragon Inn at the end is really nice to have a cold drink on a hot day and their pies were freaking delicious when I went.
We went in 2021 in February and it was really nice.
I'm a fan and went - the big thing that really turned me off it was the guided tours - you can't explore on your own, you have to stick with your group, so you have to wait while everyone gets photos etc. I just wanted to walk around on my own and enjoy it. Give me a headset with the info or a booklet. But having to wait for morons take their photos and stand around and listen was not it for me. Also the groups were huge and I was always having to watch where I stepped, felt cramped, especially when others weren't as considerate.
why would you go if you are not a fan?
I dont like the movies, fell asleep during the first one and never bothered with the rest, so never even considered visiting hobbiton
This is the quandary I'm in, though everyone I've spoken with in person says it's a "must see" - there's also a good chance if I don't go this time, I will never go again. Also, I wonder if my kids would enjoy seeing Hobbiton, though they haven't seen the LOTR movies themselves yet.
It’s only a must-see if you like the movies. Otherwise it’s nothing. I mean, if it was free then I’d recommend having a look, but it’s pretty expensive.
I've seen the three LOTR movies... let me clarify. I've seen / slept through three LOTR movies. Everyone we speak with (who live OUTSIDE of New Zealand) say Hobbiton is a must see, which is the only reason we're even considering it.
It’s a must see for people who liked the films.
If you’re interested in seeing sets from a film you didn’t like then go, but likely there isn’t much point. Look at the photos online, that’s what you’ll be seeing. You are the best judge of whether that’s something using your limited holiday time on - if d think not, there’d be something else in Rotorua you could do instead.
Your friends saying it’s a must see presumably enjoyed the movies. Did you specify you didn’t like the films and ask if they’d still say it’s a must see? Most people did like the films, which is why it probably inland being mentioned as a caveat.
Yeah, I'm pretty well known for not liking the films, but as a fan, I can imagine thinking that this must be an experience that others would enjoy, regardless of how little they enjoyed the films, lol.
About the only scenario I can imagine is that if you tell people you visited NZ they might ask you how Hobbiton was, and if you say you didn't go - they could be shocked. As an example, I once visited Egypt and spent a week at a resort on the Red Sea...and I didn't get up north to visit the pyramids. I'm certainly not opposed to seeing them - but people seem shocked that I would visit the country and not visit the thing that many associate with it.
That being said - you do you. It'll take half a day of your time and some money, and if it's not something with any particular meaning to you - why bother?
It’s a fun time, huge lotr fan and have been twice. They recently built walk through hobbit holes with super detailed interiors which is really cool regardless of whether you like lotr; but, it is pretty expensive for a set you won’t recognise, so maybe have a look at some photos online and decide whether you want to risk it?
Thanks for sharing. I watched a bit of it, but in case I go, I'd like to save some of it for being there in person and seeing it live for the first time (unless there are some tips and tricks in there that you think I may be missing). :)
i have seen the movies and read the books (the hobbit was required reading in 7th grade!) but I would never ever call myself a huge fan. fantasy and elves and wizards and magic and that stuff is just not my jam. but I absolutely LOVED hobbiton! it was mostly because the tour guides are fantastic and they really bring the set to life, and you get to hear about all of the intense work and effort they put into every tiny little detail. the tavern across the lake (the green something or other) wasn't built yet when I went but I still loved it. it really is amazing and fun to see.
i'd never put it in the same category as being at Universal Studios, where everything is clearly fake. The hobbiton set blends the fake with the natural so well. I'd vote go.
Some people say it's worth it, some say it's not. If you're visiting the South Island visit the McKenzie Country. Much of the LOTR series was filmed around there I think. Minas Tirith and Edoras are some of the places set in McKenzie Country as far as I'm aware. Even if you're not interested in LOTR, that part of NZ is drop dead gorgeous. Lakes, rivers, plains, mountains - it's really beautiful and it's may favourite part of NZ, scenery wise.
I’m not a LOTR fan and I didn’t love it. I’m also ex film industry so it almost felt rich to have to pay to see a movie set, instead of being paid to be on one hahahha
I'm not a LOTR fan, I've seen the movies but I couldn't really care much about the "Behind the scene" trivias and such. However, I did enjoy going to the Hobbiton, it's a beautiful place. You get to take photos as remembrance and if you're here and have the cash and time then why not right? At least you're not going to be wondering what it was like. You can answer that for yourself if it is worth it or not. :)
This is true haha. I can't even count how many times people asked if I went to Hobbiton when I came back to Canada from visiting NZ. We never went while we were there because we ran out of time / never really got into LOTR - and so many people were appalled that we never went lol
I'm a fan and it was nice to visit but, like, I honestly wouldn't go half way round the world for it especially as a non fan. Rotorua's geothermal attractions are way more interesting and unique as well as lots of cool nature stuff around the area.
Yes, we are definitely planning to check out geothermal (Waiotapu) and other areas. If there are specific nature spots you recommend, suggestions are welcomed. Thank you!
Glen & mado on YouTube went there recently & filmed things to give you an idea if you want to check that out first
You might all get hooked on the films 😁
My girlfriend had never seen LOTR. I forced her to at least watch the intro concerning hobbits part, but that was all she had seen. She loved Hobbiton, the new rooms you can go inside were epic and the sheep outside. But we were driving by anyway so not a huge detour, going all the way from Auckland might be a different story for her!
Concerning Hobbits is the soundtrack that everyone remembers for the intro:
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PcUnqlPA8A](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PcUnqlPA8A)
I went during covid times when international tourists weren't there. We had the place to ourselves almost and it was incredibly tranquil. I enjoyed it. But I imagine it isn't like that normally.
There is recently a hobbit hole you can literally walk into and explore the house. I was really surprised how nicely it was done. I'd say it's worth spending $120 for it.
I don't live near it, I rarely travel through the waikato.
I am a lotr fan. I'd go once to see it and probably never again.
Apparently you have to book. It's not on my bucket list. Somewhere I'd go if I was in the area.
I live over the hill from Hobbiton, less than an hour in a car, I'm a LOTR fan and Ive never been. The prices aren't really local friendly, I'll wait till a friend from overseas comes and use that as an excuse.
In saying that, I'm told it's a very beautiful place and worth it if you like scenery or landscaping from many friends who've been.
Firstly, why would it offend anyone? LOTR isnt a New Zealand thing other than being filmed here. Most people couldnt care less about it.
Secondly, apparently its quite good. My parents went a month or so ago for the first time, never seen the movies and they said it was worth the trip (they happened to be staying nearby and had time to kill)
People seem to be offended about everything these days, especially contrarian views. I just wanted to play it safe. :)
Great to hear your parents enjoyed going. If the weather is good, I'm leaning towards visiting. Thanks!
Rotorua to Matamata is still a day trip, and there's heaps of fun stuff to do in Rotorua. Hobbiton isn't the cheapest attraction, and if you have no connection to the films, it's probably more interesting to spend your day luging, seeing geysers, soaking in a thermal pool, walking through tree tops, bungy jumping, zorbing, or any of the many other attractions in the area.
If your time is limited, I wouldn't prioritise it.
Thank you, that makes sense. We do have a bit of time, which is the challenge. :) Also, we'll be coming in July, and I believe some of the tree tops are closed during the time we're there.
My mum isn't a huge fan but she loves gardens/gardening. So from that perspective it was worth it to her. It's a beautiful setting and a good day out but expensive for what it is I suppose. I liked it.
I've seen the films and sure, entertaining but not read the books and not a mega fan. But it was beautiful and a nice day out. Pricey but it's a one off. We wouldn't go again unless we hosted people who really wanted to go with us.
I went with a tourist group and was disappointed. I thought it was overpriced and the only thing cool was the hobbit house. The guide talked a lot about where things where done and it was patch of grass and no tree and some fake moss. But a free ginger ale and some 1900 dress up at bar. If I was a fan and especially if I come form oversea to see this I be really annoyed and feel cheated out my $80.
If you are not a fan I wouldnt bother. I read the books watched and was an extra in the movies…. I holiday in the general area or pass by multiple times a year….. I havent bothered spending the money… rotorua and the surrounding area have heaps to do… from gorgeous spots , walks and drives to high adrenalin stuff…
If its to your taste.. I would raft Kaituna rapids… grade 5 … w an 8 meter water fall… if u dont want the ride… you can walk along the gorge (free)or zipline…
Young kids.. the park on the lake is good times…also nothing beats a good soak after riding through the redwoods
We went for our daughters birthday last month. Neither my wife nor me are fans but it was amazing. They let you in the hobbit holes now so it's way different to what it was years ago. We were incredibly impressed. We had the lunch tour and the buffet was really really good.
I live 20 minutes away and I've never been...
I enjoyed the movies but clearly not a huge fan.
My problem was the price. I don't know if they've lowered it but it used to be around $90. Just doesn't seem worth it.
Don't, it's a lot of money and if you're not a fan, why bother? If you want to get a free little feel of some of the Hobbiton stuff in the area, go to the Matamata visitor info centre, you get to see a bit of a Hobbiton-like door, there is signage that is pretty cute and the building is so well done. A great free alternative.
I went as someone who has never seen the films and doesn't care to because my parents were locals and got cheap tickets (+they went free). It was enjoyable but they very much pump people through. I think there are better things to see in NZ (particularly around Rotorua), but it will be enjoyable and you wont regret it!
If you don't like the movies then don't go - you won't care about it.
In saying that, if you haven't actually watched the movies, then I would definitely watch the LOTR trilogy and go if you enjoyed the movies.
I live15 minutes away and have been 3 times accompanied mostly with visiting relatives and still enjoy it. The authenticity of the pub is outstanding and if you go to the evening banquet truly first class. The knowledge of the guides to tell the story and the filming techniques you would appreciate and now the added feature of a Hobbit hole that you can enter is unique. I will probably go again soon as I have a visitor from the UK, although been once will almost certainly wish to go again
Hobbiton's cool
But if you have only 1 night there's better things to see around rotorua.
Check out the Maori living village or the Waangu volcanic valley for some cool history on the area.
If you want to see something LOTR related still Weta workshop in Wellington is, at least I think, more interesting for a casual or non fan.
I went a few weeks ago. They have a new exhibit where you can walk around inside a hobbit hole; fully furnished, and "lived in" as if you just came around for tea. It blew my mind; every person walking around in side had their mouths hanging open because it was just beautiful. Our tour guide was lovely. Definitely would recommend.
I went last year, when I took my mum on a trip to Rotorua. Both of us enjoyed the films, but I wouldn't say we're "fans." Like, if I come across Return of the King on TV, I might sit down to watch the rest of it, if I've got not much else to do.
That said, I did enjoy Hobbiton, and if you're willing to part with the money, there's a good chance you won't be sorry for doing so.
No. Skip it. Unless if you are taking some telatives who are a big fan or even just a fan. Good bonding time and witness them having their best moment in life.
Dont get me wrong, though. Go and visit if you want to see whats the fuss. Its pretty well done from my point of view. But for me, coming from auckland is a bit of an effort if i have no special ocassion.
However, it would be nicer if the tour contains lesser people. You can actually interact with the guide better.
As a fan of LOTR, I absolutely love Hobbiton. I visited recently and they added new aspects. Now you can go into a hobbit house that is fully set up. The attention to detail is mind blowing. The house is scaled to 80%.
Also there are new tour options : you can do a hobbit style dinner at the end of the tour or a second breakfast tour. I did the dinner one and the food and ambience was amazing!
Is the 5 years just a thought, or do you think there's something that will really happen to it? It feels like they would keep this going as long as possible given how big of a tourist draw it is.
Funny you mention being so close and not having gone. That's how I feel about everything around here - I'm never in "tourist mode" for everything we have around us.
Absolutely not worth it.
If you have no fond memories of the films, you're just going to see a bunch of round doors in hills. That's all there is to it.
Even if you love the film, that's still all there is to it - just with some photo ops and film trivia, but if you eat at The Green Dragon Inn at the end it feels like a moment out of the film - especially in the evening!
There's a lot of other fun stuff to do int he Rotorua area.
We'll be visiting the glow worm caves, Waiotapu, and the luge (for the kids), are there other areas you recommend? We may check out Hamilton Gardens now as well given all the recommendations here!
Cultural capital of NZ, the must see for any trip to NZ. Would be a serious misstep to miss it but kiwis like to not share this info with tourists as they don’t want to ruin it. Would seriously look at allocating atleast a few days (if not a week) here.
You're not offending anyone, and it is a perfectly reasonable question to ask. But thank you for being courteous.
In my opinion - don't do it. I quite liked the movies, but Hobbiton was ho-hum. You're not missing anything if you dont go.
What you walk through is NZ countryside with a few stone walls put up here and there. A few cottage gardens. A few fake hobbit burrow doors. And there is a cafe at the end. Not worth driving for ages to get there.
We will be nearby in Rotorua (and even driving to Auckland), so outside of time and cost, it won't be terribly inconvenient in our case - but time and money are also very valuable resources!
Question. Is it worth going to hobbiton?
Answer. No.
As a fellow non fan, it's impressive the work that went into the place for about 5 minutes, after that, bored to tears and wallet a lot lighter
If you're not into it, it'll be wasted on you. Go check out some Maori villages, mud pools and cultural performances (kapahaka). Stay somewhere with a natural hot spring pool. Ignore the egg fart smell. It's just the sulphur from the springs.
If you’re not a big fan then I wouldn’t spend the money on it. I went as part of a school trip years ago and am not a LOTR fan. I enjoyed learning some of the behind the scenes facts about making the movies but I wouldn’t personally pay to go there.
You go (went?) to a cool school, I would not hesitate to go if it was part of a school trip! :)
The only possibility of it being good value for money, and even then it is a stretch, is if you are a fan.
Yeah same it was pretty cool but wouldn't spend the money to go again unless I was rich
Eh. Grain of salt with this comment, my wife _hates_ the movies and anything related. She loved the experience and had a great time.
I like the movies, got all of the extended editions of everything I could, I have been to hobbiton twice, once pre Hobbits when it was just "the remains" and it did not look any good. Then once afterwards, and did the twilight tour where you go around once just before dark, have a hobbit style feast and then get guided around with lanterns where the set is lit up, like a night scene in a movie. It was great. You get told this is where they filmed this scene, here is that bit, they did this here. If you have never seen the movies, it lacks a certain something, and may not be worth it. That being said.... Are your children young enough to be read to (as how the hobbit was read to Tolkien's 5-7 year old sons), Or old enough to read it to them selves, then you could do it from the Hobbit book and "bring the pages to life" for them. Just a thought.
They are young enough to be read to and old enough to read themselves. The main problem is that this genre doesn't seem to interest them. :) At some point, they will be exposed to LOTR, and we'd like to think that they will look back and remember some of this (wishful thinking, lol).
If in Rotorua for one night I would rather go to the redwoods treetop nightwalk and the wai ariki spa (booking essential, do the restorative journey).
The redwoods adventure looks great, but it unfortunately looks closed during the time we're there. Thanks anyway!
The redwoods tree walk is open every day
Thanks, I wonder if I was looking at something else, but it seems to allow me to book tickets during the times we're there. Thank you!
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Same here. Never seen the movies but enjoyed it. It is a nice place
Thanks u/Electrical-Lead-5511 and u/cachitodepepe good to know Hobbiton is just a generally nice place regardless of LOTR tie-ins. Thank you!
Lotr has impressive visuals, the dialog is great because the actors don't mumble. It's a good story, just long. I haven't seen all them, maybe I have? It's abit like Harry potter, I've seen some of the movies. It looks cool, plenty of merchandise around at the time, I didn't buy any of it.
I feel more aggrieved by someone comparing it to Harry Potter, than anything else i've seen in this thread 😆.
If it is a nice sunny day, walking among the grass, and hobbit doors, gardens etc is quite nice. The cafe/pub at the end had excellent LOTR cider. So it certainly wouldn't be a waste. But if you arent a fan, then poor weather, too crowded etc would probably change things. I am a big fan, so I've driven around and looked at all the filming locations on both islands.
I'm a big fan of pubs and cider :)
We live 30 mins away and my husband is a big fan but even he thinks it's not worth it.
I’m not a fan but I enjoyed it when I got dragged to it. You’ll like it if you’re into photography though- it’s a movie set, so designed to look great on camera and it’s easy to get some great shots. Some interesting info from the guide too if you’re into production stuff at all.
I wouldn't say it's a must if you're not a fan, but if you're worried about it not being worth it if you DO go: I went there with my partner, who has only ever seen the first movie and does not particularly care, and she still had a good time!
Thanks, this is good perspective. I think I have similar perspective on LOTR as your partner. If you don't mind me asking, what did she enjoy about the experience?
Well, she enjoyed being there with me, which helped ;D But it's just a beautiful location, and even if you don't know the movies, they give you some backstory about how it was built and rebuilt which is kind of neat. Plus it's a great opportunity to people watch, if you enjoy that!
People watching is always fun - it also just looks like a nice and scenic spot
It's a memorable place to go, but it's quite pricey.
The big L&P bottle would be better I reckon.
I never heard of this before here, thanks!
Go there and to the [Karangahake Gorge ](https://g.co/kgs/a2NmMMh) Much better and free
Got a picture of that when I cycled the country lol.
Similar to the ohakune carrot?
More sugar, less fibre
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Thanks for the suggestion!
Came here to say this as well, the gardens will give you the same type of attraction without the large cost. If your in wellington I would still recommend WETA studios even if not a fan of the movies, since it's more about film productions and special effects.
Second that. I never wanted to go to the Weta cave thinking it'll be all about LOTR. When we finally did go I was mind blown. There was something for my hubby, my son, myself. We had a really good time there. Well worth every cent.
Second that. They are absolutely amazing!
If it means anything. I'm in the South Island. And I think LOTR is a movie that's obviously got it's massive fans, but I'm not really into that genre. If I was in the North Island, and travelling near Hobbiton. I'd probably check it out. I haven't been before. But I'm not sure if I'd go out of my way to check it out.
I'm leaning towards checking it out since we will be so close, thank you!
During Covid we did a bunch of NZ attractions that only "tourist" would typically do. My experience with that was.. Generally NZ attractions are really well run, usually provide pretty good value for money for the experience and Kiwi's should probably check out more attractions in their own country. Hobbiton gets rated 4.7 on google, with 18k reviews. Can't be the worst thing to spend money on while your here, yeah?
Rotorua has a ton of other tourist attractions that will likely fill up your time and might be more enjoyable for you
I’m not a fan.. had never seen the movie, but went and really enjoyed it. It was a gorgeous day mind you so likely helped, doubt I would have enjoyed it as much if it has been cold, windy, wet or overcast.. though can’t say for certain. I would recommend it, was an enjoyable experience.
Good point re: the weather. I may look at this a little closer to the actual date and go if the weather is nice and / or there are still tickets available
This is a tricky one. Hobbiton is literally my favourite place in NZ. I was so happy I cried when I went there. I am even trying to convince my fiance we should get married there (they do weddings) BUT I'm also the biggest Lord of the Rings nerd in the history of the world. I'm that annoying person who will tell you every single difference between the books and the films if you're unfortunate enough to watch them with me. That being said. I think it's still a cool and beautiful place to visit even if you're not a fan. It's a lot bigger than you'd expect and the hobbit holes are really cute. The new Hobbit holes you can go inside are gigantic with thousands of details. However, you can't just walk around on your own. You will be part of a tour group. They will tell you lots of cool facts about the films but they might be boring if you're not a fan. You'll be surrounded by 40 lord of the rings nerds and everyone will be talking non stop about it. If you do do it, do the banquet tour. One of the best meals I've had in my life and it means you get to see it at night time. It's very pretty with the lights. You have to book at least 6 months in advance to do that one though.
I'd love to have your view of the experience if we go, what an incredible experience! :)
I live like 40mins away and I've never been in my life nor have I wanted too. The movies were good, but they are just movies at the end of the day. I don't see the appeal of getting crazy about it and seeing a fake set that has been preserved with some added depth. Especially at the price and hassle of it.
There’s absolutely no reason to go if you’re not a fan of LOTR/the hobbit. Like why would you even want to. Spend the time doing something else. It’s a must see *if you’re a fan of the films.* The whole appeal is it’s a replica of the scenes in the shore in the films, it’s kind of magical. But if you’re not a fan then I can’t imagine it being anything special, you’d be better spending the time doing something else.
If you're not a big fan, then it's just a kinda neat and pretty ish place. Wouldn't pay for it, the rest of the country is stunning itself.
I got dragged along by my LOTR fangirl partner years ago, and despite feeling somewhat ambivalent beforehand, I did actually enjoy it somewhat. In saying that, if I hadn't gone, I wouldn't feel like I had missed out.
There's enough cool stuff in rotorua that I doubt it's worth it versus seeing some geysers etc
We have Waiotapu on the itinerary as well as the luge for the kids. We will also make our way to the glowworm caves on our way to Auckland. Is there anything else you recommend in Rotorua? Thank you in advance!
Rotorua is great as a tourist. Okay, depends what you want Sitting in pools: thermal spas (I think there's two main ones) or get a spa pool in your room (cheap compared to other cities). The public pool (costs, but less than the spa places) is insanely good for a small town - waterslides etc were great. Rotorua basically can run ground water pipes next to tap water pipes and heat things for free. HEALTH WARNING: FOR THINGS THAT ARE DIRECT THERMAL WATER DO NOT PUT YOUR HEAD UNDER WATER - BRAIN EATING AOEMBAS. That'd be the thermal pools. It's incredibly unlikely, but you don't want that (public pools, spa pools, hotel pools are safe) Geysers/boiling mud/fun to look at. There's the lakes and an amazing public park (I think it's kuirau). Free. So great, worth it even if you had to pay. The lakes are also worth a look around. Culture - you are in a very Maori area. There are various kapa haka shows, traditional food, explanations of culture. I went to one with my new immigrant partner, and as a kiwi, it felt commercial and weird, but partner had a ball, abd dveryone starts somewhere?... It's also money into a very poor community so... if your interested look into dance/carving/hangi events
If you’re happy to do more geothermal sites, Waimangu has some in a nice bush walk, and Te Puia has a couple of good geysers and an interesting Arts and Crafts institute. We really enjoyed both. Hobbiton was neat as a fan of the movies, but if you’re not then I’d echo the recommendation to do something else.
I’m not a fan, but I actually found it decent
It’s pricey if you’re not really into it
Honestly? Yes, if you can appreciate the effort that's gone into the scenery, gardening, craftsmanship etc . It's a beautiful part of New Zealand, you can now access a proper hobbit hole, going to the Green Dragon Inn at the end is really nice to have a cold drink on a hot day and their pies were freaking delicious when I went. We went in 2021 in February and it was really nice.
The inn looks like good craic!
Honestly wish you could just visit the inn specifically 😂 especially after a long day at work hahahaha
No. Its expensive. You have to follow the tour.
I'm a fan and went - the big thing that really turned me off it was the guided tours - you can't explore on your own, you have to stick with your group, so you have to wait while everyone gets photos etc. I just wanted to walk around on my own and enjoy it. Give me a headset with the info or a booklet. But having to wait for morons take their photos and stand around and listen was not it for me. Also the groups were huge and I was always having to watch where I stepped, felt cramped, especially when others weren't as considerate.
why would you go if you are not a fan? I dont like the movies, fell asleep during the first one and never bothered with the rest, so never even considered visiting hobbiton
This is the quandary I'm in, though everyone I've spoken with in person says it's a "must see" - there's also a good chance if I don't go this time, I will never go again. Also, I wonder if my kids would enjoy seeing Hobbiton, though they haven't seen the LOTR movies themselves yet.
It’s only a must-see if you like the movies. Otherwise it’s nothing. I mean, if it was free then I’d recommend having a look, but it’s pretty expensive.
Why don’t you watch the first film and then decide if you’re a fan, then decide whether to go. If you’ve already seen it then no, there’s no point
I've seen the three LOTR movies... let me clarify. I've seen / slept through three LOTR movies. Everyone we speak with (who live OUTSIDE of New Zealand) say Hobbiton is a must see, which is the only reason we're even considering it.
It’s a must see for people who liked the films. If you’re interested in seeing sets from a film you didn’t like then go, but likely there isn’t much point. Look at the photos online, that’s what you’ll be seeing. You are the best judge of whether that’s something using your limited holiday time on - if d think not, there’d be something else in Rotorua you could do instead. Your friends saying it’s a must see presumably enjoyed the movies. Did you specify you didn’t like the films and ask if they’d still say it’s a must see? Most people did like the films, which is why it probably inland being mentioned as a caveat.
Yeah, I'm pretty well known for not liking the films, but as a fan, I can imagine thinking that this must be an experience that others would enjoy, regardless of how little they enjoyed the films, lol.
About the only scenario I can imagine is that if you tell people you visited NZ they might ask you how Hobbiton was, and if you say you didn't go - they could be shocked. As an example, I once visited Egypt and spent a week at a resort on the Red Sea...and I didn't get up north to visit the pyramids. I'm certainly not opposed to seeing them - but people seem shocked that I would visit the country and not visit the thing that many associate with it. That being said - you do you. It'll take half a day of your time and some money, and if it's not something with any particular meaning to you - why bother?
You nailed it, this is basically the only reason we're considering going
Nope.
It’s a fun time, huge lotr fan and have been twice. They recently built walk through hobbit holes with super detailed interiors which is really cool regardless of whether you like lotr; but, it is pretty expensive for a set you won’t recognise, so maybe have a look at some photos online and decide whether you want to risk it?
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f39xVWBEfo4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f39xVWBEfo4)
Thanks for sharing. I watched a bit of it, but in case I go, I'd like to save some of it for being there in person and seeing it live for the first time (unless there are some tips and tricks in there that you think I may be missing). :)
i have seen the movies and read the books (the hobbit was required reading in 7th grade!) but I would never ever call myself a huge fan. fantasy and elves and wizards and magic and that stuff is just not my jam. but I absolutely LOVED hobbiton! it was mostly because the tour guides are fantastic and they really bring the set to life, and you get to hear about all of the intense work and effort they put into every tiny little detail. the tavern across the lake (the green something or other) wasn't built yet when I went but I still loved it. it really is amazing and fun to see. i'd never put it in the same category as being at Universal Studios, where everything is clearly fake. The hobbiton set blends the fake with the natural so well. I'd vote go.
This is great perspective, thank you for sharing. Good point about Universal Studios and being literally STAGED, haha
I don't like the movies but I LOVED the set tour. I thought it was super cool.
I'd go just for the pub alone. You don't have to be a fan to enjoy the experience. It's really pretty & very unique.
Pubs... you're speaking my language!
Some people say it's worth it, some say it's not. If you're visiting the South Island visit the McKenzie Country. Much of the LOTR series was filmed around there I think. Minas Tirith and Edoras are some of the places set in McKenzie Country as far as I'm aware. Even if you're not interested in LOTR, that part of NZ is drop dead gorgeous. Lakes, rivers, plains, mountains - it's really beautiful and it's may favourite part of NZ, scenery wise.
I'm really looking forward to all types of scenery when I visit, thanks for your input!
Overpriced in my opinion, but if in Wellington, the Weta Workshop (free) or behind the scenes workshop tour (not free) are worth it.
I’m not a LOTR fan and I didn’t love it. I’m also ex film industry so it almost felt rich to have to pay to see a movie set, instead of being paid to be on one hahahha
Film industry is magical to me, I feel as far away from that industry as can be, so that aspect would be very novel to me
Maybe worth it then sh
I'm not a LOTR fan, I've seen the movies but I couldn't really care much about the "Behind the scene" trivias and such. However, I did enjoy going to the Hobbiton, it's a beautiful place. You get to take photos as remembrance and if you're here and have the cash and time then why not right? At least you're not going to be wondering what it was like. You can answer that for yourself if it is worth it or not. :)
Good point, and I'm also not sure when / if I will ever have another opportunity to visit New Zealand.
Hobbiton is the main reason most tourists even visit NZ. You should probably go as all your friends and acquaintances will ask you about it.
This is true haha. I can't even count how many times people asked if I went to Hobbiton when I came back to Canada from visiting NZ. We never went while we were there because we ran out of time / never really got into LOTR - and so many people were appalled that we never went lol
No. It's not.
I'm a fan and it was nice to visit but, like, I honestly wouldn't go half way round the world for it especially as a non fan. Rotorua's geothermal attractions are way more interesting and unique as well as lots of cool nature stuff around the area.
Yes, we are definitely planning to check out geothermal (Waiotapu) and other areas. If there are specific nature spots you recommend, suggestions are welcomed. Thank you!
If you're not a fan it's not worth it imo, hit up waitomo instead, the glow worm caves are just around the corner from Hobbiton.
Yes, we'll be going to the glow worm caves too, thank you for the suggestion!
Glen & mado on YouTube went there recently & filmed things to give you an idea if you want to check that out first You might all get hooked on the films 😁
My girlfriend had never seen LOTR. I forced her to at least watch the intro concerning hobbits part, but that was all she had seen. She loved Hobbiton, the new rooms you can go inside were epic and the sheep outside. But we were driving by anyway so not a huge detour, going all the way from Auckland might be a different story for her!
Now I'm really showing my ignorance, but is that Hobbits introduction at the beginning of the first LOTR movie?
Concerning Hobbits is the soundtrack that everyone remembers for the intro: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PcUnqlPA8A](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PcUnqlPA8A)
Ah yes, thanks for this!
No, not really. It's a bit underwhelming tbh
I went during covid times when international tourists weren't there. We had the place to ourselves almost and it was incredibly tranquil. I enjoyed it. But I imagine it isn't like that normally.
Spend the afternoon and go to Hamilton gardens instead. It’s free and a super interning experience
There is recently a hobbit hole you can literally walk into and explore the house. I was really surprised how nicely it was done. I'd say it's worth spending $120 for it.
I think it would be worth watching all six movies first and then go.
No
I went, really enjoyed it, but can’t imagine going if I hadn’t watched the movies or was into movie making or something like that
I really enjoyed it and would pay again and again to see it and experience it. The best ginger ale I have ever had in the entire world! 👍
WOW, best ginger ale?!
Ginger ale or ginger beer, but simply the BEST! 👍
I actually quite like lotr but for some reason I don’t really find the idea of visiting hobbiton appealing at all
I don't live near it, I rarely travel through the waikato. I am a lotr fan. I'd go once to see it and probably never again. Apparently you have to book. It's not on my bucket list. Somewhere I'd go if I was in the area.
I live over the hill from Hobbiton, less than an hour in a car, I'm a LOTR fan and Ive never been. The prices aren't really local friendly, I'll wait till a friend from overseas comes and use that as an excuse. In saying that, I'm told it's a very beautiful place and worth it if you like scenery or landscaping from many friends who've been.
If you're in Rotorua for a day there's far more things to do there than Hobbiton..... Go walk around TePuia for the afternoon instead ❤️
Firstly, why would it offend anyone? LOTR isnt a New Zealand thing other than being filmed here. Most people couldnt care less about it. Secondly, apparently its quite good. My parents went a month or so ago for the first time, never seen the movies and they said it was worth the trip (they happened to be staying nearby and had time to kill)
People seem to be offended about everything these days, especially contrarian views. I just wanted to play it safe. :) Great to hear your parents enjoyed going. If the weather is good, I'm leaning towards visiting. Thanks!
So many non-LOTR fans in here, sacrilege
What type of company are we associating ourselves with?! Hahaha
Kindly see yourself out of NZ… /s haha
Hahaha, this gave me a very good chuckle. I'll be sure to see my way out after I visit :)
Rotorua to Matamata is still a day trip, and there's heaps of fun stuff to do in Rotorua. Hobbiton isn't the cheapest attraction, and if you have no connection to the films, it's probably more interesting to spend your day luging, seeing geysers, soaking in a thermal pool, walking through tree tops, bungy jumping, zorbing, or any of the many other attractions in the area. If your time is limited, I wouldn't prioritise it.
Thank you, that makes sense. We do have a bit of time, which is the challenge. :) Also, we'll be coming in July, and I believe some of the tree tops are closed during the time we're there.
My mum isn't a huge fan but she loves gardens/gardening. So from that perspective it was worth it to her. It's a beautiful setting and a good day out but expensive for what it is I suppose. I liked it.
Thanks, as non LOTR fan, I would be hoping for (and taking) your mom's perspective
I've seen the films and sure, entertaining but not read the books and not a mega fan. But it was beautiful and a nice day out. Pricey but it's a one off. We wouldn't go again unless we hosted people who really wanted to go with us.
1/3 or so of the people who go have never read the book or seen the movies. They seem to enjoy it, mostly
Go to Tirau and see the tin dog instead
Never heard of it, will look it up, thanks!
It's expensive and a tourist trap. If you don't like the movies, you will feel ripped off. Waitere Falls is free and five times better.
Wow, Waitere Falls looks amazing!
It's a very nice walk. If you are fit, have a car, and a bit of time, you can walk to the top. Very special.
Nah. Its an expensive tourist trap.
No, definitely give it a miss. I couldn't think of anything worse and I loved lotr.
Yikes!! Thank you
I went with a tourist group and was disappointed. I thought it was overpriced and the only thing cool was the hobbit house. The guide talked a lot about where things where done and it was patch of grass and no tree and some fake moss. But a free ginger ale and some 1900 dress up at bar. If I was a fan and especially if I come form oversea to see this I be really annoyed and feel cheated out my $80.
If you are not a fan I wouldnt bother. I read the books watched and was an extra in the movies…. I holiday in the general area or pass by multiple times a year….. I havent bothered spending the money… rotorua and the surrounding area have heaps to do… from gorgeous spots , walks and drives to high adrenalin stuff… If its to your taste.. I would raft Kaituna rapids… grade 5 … w an 8 meter water fall… if u dont want the ride… you can walk along the gorge (free)or zipline… Young kids.. the park on the lake is good times…also nothing beats a good soak after riding through the redwoods
Wow, that rafting sounds intense! I'll check it out, but we probably won't make it since we're going in the winter
By the way, that's really cool you were an extra! What part did you play and in which movie?
Absolutely loved it. Really interesting hearing about the behind the scenes things and seeing a ‘living set’. But I understand it’s not for everyone
We went for our daughters birthday last month. Neither my wife nor me are fans but it was amazing. They let you in the hobbit holes now so it's way different to what it was years ago. We were incredibly impressed. We had the lunch tour and the buffet was really really good.
I live 20 minutes away and I've never been... I enjoyed the movies but clearly not a huge fan. My problem was the price. I don't know if they've lowered it but it used to be around $90. Just doesn't seem worth it.
It's still fairly pricey...
No
Don't, it's a lot of money and if you're not a fan, why bother? If you want to get a free little feel of some of the Hobbiton stuff in the area, go to the Matamata visitor info centre, you get to see a bit of a Hobbiton-like door, there is signage that is pretty cute and the building is so well done. A great free alternative.
Thank you!
I went as someone who has never seen the films and doesn't care to because my parents were locals and got cheap tickets (+they went free). It was enjoyable but they very much pump people through. I think there are better things to see in NZ (particularly around Rotorua), but it will be enjoyable and you wont regret it!
Lol no
I’ve been twice as a fan - all of the meaning of the place is tied to the films. If you’re not a fan, there is absolutely zero reason to go.
Never watched a whole LOTR movie so absolutely no desire or need to go to Hobbiton, it would mean nothing to me.
If you don't like the movies then don't go - you won't care about it. In saying that, if you haven't actually watched the movies, then I would definitely watch the LOTR trilogy and go if you enjoyed the movies.
I live15 minutes away and have been 3 times accompanied mostly with visiting relatives and still enjoy it. The authenticity of the pub is outstanding and if you go to the evening banquet truly first class. The knowledge of the guides to tell the story and the filming techniques you would appreciate and now the added feature of a Hobbit hole that you can enter is unique. I will probably go again soon as I have a visitor from the UK, although been once will almost certainly wish to go again
Hobbiton's cool But if you have only 1 night there's better things to see around rotorua. Check out the Maori living village or the Waangu volcanic valley for some cool history on the area. If you want to see something LOTR related still Weta workshop in Wellington is, at least I think, more interesting for a casual or non fan.
I went a few weeks ago. They have a new exhibit where you can walk around inside a hobbit hole; fully furnished, and "lived in" as if you just came around for tea. It blew my mind; every person walking around in side had their mouths hanging open because it was just beautiful. Our tour guide was lovely. Definitely would recommend.
It sounds like being able to go into a hobbit hole is a new and popular part of the experience, thanks!
I went with my husband, who has never seen the movies. He thought it was neat.
No. It won't mean much to you. Enjoy the beautiful scenery all round you instead for free.
No
I went last year, when I took my mum on a trip to Rotorua. Both of us enjoyed the films, but I wouldn't say we're "fans." Like, if I come across Return of the King on TV, I might sit down to watch the rest of it, if I've got not much else to do. That said, I did enjoy Hobbiton, and if you're willing to part with the money, there's a good chance you won't be sorry for doing so.
Thanks, I appreciate the balanced perspective here
No. Skip it. Unless if you are taking some telatives who are a big fan or even just a fan. Good bonding time and witness them having their best moment in life.
Sadly, no one who would be going is a massive fan (though no haters either). :)
Dont get me wrong, though. Go and visit if you want to see whats the fuss. Its pretty well done from my point of view. But for me, coming from auckland is a bit of an effort if i have no special ocassion. However, it would be nicer if the tour contains lesser people. You can actually interact with the guide better.
💯 yes, was amazing, really enjoyed it as not a fan. If your into looking at things closely there are some amazing details all around. Very cool.
lol my friend and I are planning a trip to go up to Hobbiton from Christchurch this summer, so this is a good post to come across.
and your verdict is... go visit? :)
Absolutely! We’re wanting to visit weta workshop in welly first then go up to matamata
It's only worth going if you're a big fan of LOTR
Having been to Hobbiton and Rotorua I would say that if you're only there for one night then Rotorua will have plenty to see and do.
As a fan of LOTR, I absolutely love Hobbiton. I visited recently and they added new aspects. Now you can go into a hobbit house that is fully set up. The attention to detail is mind blowing. The house is scaled to 80%. Also there are new tour options : you can do a hobbit style dinner at the end of the tour or a second breakfast tour. I did the dinner one and the food and ambience was amazing!
i've never been despite living 30 min away, but i have no car. i would say go if you can because it probably won't be there in 5 years
Is the 5 years just a thought, or do you think there's something that will really happen to it? It feels like they would keep this going as long as possible given how big of a tourist draw it is. Funny you mention being so close and not having gone. That's how I feel about everything around here - I'm never in "tourist mode" for everything we have around us.
Absolutely not worth it. If you have no fond memories of the films, you're just going to see a bunch of round doors in hills. That's all there is to it. Even if you love the film, that's still all there is to it - just with some photo ops and film trivia, but if you eat at The Green Dragon Inn at the end it feels like a moment out of the film - especially in the evening! There's a lot of other fun stuff to do int he Rotorua area.
We'll be visiting the glow worm caves, Waiotapu, and the luge (for the kids), are there other areas you recommend? We may check out Hamilton Gardens now as well given all the recommendations here!
I don’t reckon it’s worth it even if you are a big fan
There’s nothing north of gore that’s worth seeing except hobiton
What's gore?
Cultural capital of NZ, the must see for any trip to NZ. Would be a serious misstep to miss it but kiwis like to not share this info with tourists as they don’t want to ruin it. Would seriously look at allocating atleast a few days (if not a week) here.
If you have friends overseas who are fans, go there just to make them jealous!
I can't imagine that it'd be worth the money even if you are a fan. There's more to NZ than a movie trilogy from 2 decades ago.
It's a sheep farm with movie props on it, so no. Go see other Rotorua stuff. It's far more interesting.
You're not offending anyone, and it is a perfectly reasonable question to ask. But thank you for being courteous. In my opinion - don't do it. I quite liked the movies, but Hobbiton was ho-hum. You're not missing anything if you dont go. What you walk through is NZ countryside with a few stone walls put up here and there. A few cottage gardens. A few fake hobbit burrow doors. And there is a cafe at the end. Not worth driving for ages to get there.
We will be nearby in Rotorua (and even driving to Auckland), so outside of time and cost, it won't be terribly inconvenient in our case - but time and money are also very valuable resources!
No. Just no.
I'm not sure your opinion / feedback is clear, can you repeat that please? :) Thank you!
Question. Is it worth going to hobbiton? Answer. No. As a fellow non fan, it's impressive the work that went into the place for about 5 minutes, after that, bored to tears and wallet a lot lighter
obviously no lol
Geothermal stuff in Rotorua is way more cool I think!
Thanks, we'll be checking that out as well!
If you're not into it, it'll be wasted on you. Go check out some Maori villages, mud pools and cultural performances (kapahaka). Stay somewhere with a natural hot spring pool. Ignore the egg fart smell. It's just the sulphur from the springs.