Turning 30 in the Shire

For my 30th birthday, I decided to embrace my inner hobbit and venture to Hobbiton in Matamata, New Zealand. Because nothing says "I'm officially an adult" like frolicking through hobbit holes and sipping ale at the Green Dragon Inn!

The Journey Begins

Located about a two-hour drive from Auckland (1.5 hours from Taupo), Hobbiton is nestled in the lush Waikato countryside. The rolling green hills and grazing sheep set the perfect scene for a day in Middle-earth. We booked our tour through the official Hobbiton Movie Set Tours website, opting for the 2.5-hour guided tour with a lunch banquet at the Green Dragon Inn. Hobbiton Tours

Exploring the Shire

Our adventure began with a short bus ride through the picturesque 1,250-acre sheep farm, offering stunning views of the Kaimai Ranges. As we stepped onto the 12-acre movie set, it felt like we'd been transported straight into the films. The attention to detail was astounding—from the colorful hobbit holes to the meticulously maintained gardens.

Highlights:

Bag End - Bilbo Baggins House

Bag End is the most iconic hobbit hole in Hobbiton—Peter Jackson wanted it to feel grand, so it was placed at the highest point of the set. From there, you get sweeping views of the whole village below—just like Bilbo watching the sunrise before Gandalf shows up with thirteen hungry dwarves. With its round green door, flower-filled garden, and that iconic “No admittance except on party business” sign, this is peak hobbit real estate.

Bagshot Row – Home to Samwise Gamgee and his family

In The Return of the King, this is where Sam returns after saying goodbye to Frodo. You see him walk up to the yellow front door, where Rosie and their little daughter Elanor are waiting. That sweet closing scene? It was actually the very last shot filmed for the entire Lord of the Rings trilogy!

The Party Tree – The iconic site of Bilbo's eleventy-first birthday party

The Green Dragon Inn – Where we enjoyed the complimentary ale by the fireplace

The Green Dragon Inn wasn’t just built for show—it’s a fully functioning pub. After wrapping up filming, the set was lovingly rebuilt to be permanent. You can actually walk through the same doors Frodo and his friends did and order a drink like a proper hobbit. 

We also got to peek inside some of the hobbit holes, which have been fully furnished since December 2023, offering an immersive glimpse into hobbit life.

Feasting Like Hobbits

Hands down, the lunch banquet was worth the trip alone! Held inside the Green Dragon’s rustic dining hall, the meal was hearty, delicious, and exactly what you’d imagine hobbits would dig into on an ordinary Thursday (or a 30th birthday). Let’s just say—if hobbits know one thing, it’s how to throw a feast. 

Long wooden tables were filled with freshly baked breads, roast meats, seasonal vegetables, and generous platters that felt like they belonged at a Shire wedding. Everything was served family-style, with second (and third) helpings encouraged. You may also order ale, cider, or ginger beer to wash it all down (just don't forget to bring your ID!).

Tips for Your Visit

Book in Advance –  Tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons

Dress Comfortably – Hobbiton is all outdoors, so wear good comfortable walking shoes and bring layers (especially if you’re visiting in winter).

Arrive Early – Give yourself plenty of time to check in and explore the Shire's Rest Café and gift shop.

Take Photos – You’ll want to remember every whimsical corner so snap away!

A Birthday to Remember

Celebrating my 30th birthday in Hobbiton was one for the books. The magic of the Shire, the feast at the Green Dragon Inn, and the joy of stepping into a beloved fantasy world made it an unforgettable day. Whether you're a Tolkien superfan or just craving a bit of whimsy, Hobbiton is a must-visit slice of New Zealand magic.