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Matamata - home of Hobbiton
 South of Auckland, Matamata is located amongst the idyllic farmland of the Waikato District. With its rolling grassy hills, Matamata is a small part of England transported to other side of the world. Here, far away from the dark power of Sauron, you can take a walk by the lake or look at Bilbo’s birthday tree.
Even though most physical evidence of the film no longer exists, conveniently placed photo boards show how the area appeared during filming and the work required by talented set designers to achieve the amazing finished look. A guided tour will take you up Bagshot Row to Bag End, to stand outside the most famous hobbit hole in Middle Earth.
   
 Info/ Hint:
Hobbiton was built on the Alexander family sheep-farm in 1999. Early 2000 completed filming. Book at the Matamata Visitor Information Centre for a  two-hour “Rings Scenic Tour” to Hobbiton, which departs three times daily.
  Tip:
The Coromandel Peninsula is just 90 minutes drive from the Shire. Allow yourself some extra time to see this fabulous scenery.
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