Hobbiton

Hobbiton is the enchanting, permanent movie set of the Shire from The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films, nestled in the rolling green farmland of the North Island. On a guided tour of this meticulously maintained village, visitors wander past dozens of colourful round hobbit-hole doors set into flower-filled hillsides, over the little bridge and mill, to the Green Dragon Inn, a delightful, whimsical experience for film fans and families alike.

What you actually see

• The hobbit holes - the dozens of round, colourful doors in the hillsides.
• Bag End - the famous home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins.
• The Green Dragon Inn - the tavern serving ale and cider at the tour's end.
• The gardens and mill - the flower gardens, bridge and watermill.

When to go

Year-round; the lush set is beautifully maintained in every season, though a fine day shows off the gardens and green hills best. It is visited only on guided tours, which book up in peak summer, so reserve ahead.

Honest expectations

It can only be visited on a guided tour that must be booked, often ahead in summer, and it is not cheap. It is a manufactured attraction, so its magic depends on your love of the films, though the setting and craft charm even non-fans. It is out in the countryside, needing a car or tour to reach.

Nearby

The Waitomo glowworm caves and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua are within reach.