We travelled with our 6-year-old son to the Waikato countryside in New Zealand to visit the infamous ‘Hobbiton Movie Set’. Prior to our arrival I had been reading part of JRR Tolkien novel ‘The Hobbit’ to our son so he could have more of an understanding of what it was about and be taken on an enchanting journey once we arrived. I described a Hobbits appearance and temperament telling him how they are such shy creatures, very short with big hairy feet and enjoyed 2 or 3 breakfasts like he did. He would ask IF I thought we would see a Hobbit at home in the Shire. I would answer that I didn’t know as they are extremely shy, but I hoped we would.
The Shire was more beautiful than I had anticipated given it is a movie set. I assumed the Movie Producers would’ve digitally enhanced part of the spectacular scenery. Surprisingly it is all real. It was very cute to see the Hobbit Holes and learn about the Shire, see the various interests they enjoyed. Every detail has been meticulously created. It really did look and feel like Hobbit folk lived there in The Shire.
Our guide was knowledgeable about all things ‘Hobbiton’ and ‘Lord of the Rings’. We learnt some fascinating fun facts about the fantasy world of Middle-Earth, that astonished us. Informing us about Sir Peter Jackson’s level of dedication the measures he took as to not leave anything to chance. Truly awe inspiring.
Some of the 44 hobbit holes had open gates and our Kidsetter would cautiously knock on the front door peering in waiting to see if a Hobbit would answer. He tried knocking on many a door, whilst he skipped along the pathway and enjoyed the lush scenery learning all about how Hobbits lived from our tour guide.
An adorable moment occurred when our 6-year-old spotted smoke coming from one of the chimney’s in the distance. He yelled ‘Look, a hobbit is home!’ He was beyond excited that he may get to see a Hobbit. We had to walk for some time before arriving at the front of this hobbit hole so he’s excitement intensified as he pondered IF he would see a Hobbit today. When we reached the front of this hobbit hole, the gate was closed. He didn’t mind at all that he wasn’t able to knock on the door, he was just ecstatic that a Hobbit WAS home when he was visiting this enchanting village. I reminded him that they are very shy, but it was thrilling to know one was at home when we were there. His smile was priceless.
We finished our tour at The Green Dragon’s Inn drinking an ale sitting in a comfortable armchair by the fire, admiring the enchanted village, feeling like Bilbo and Freddo were going to join us at any moment.
A place you felt you could stay indefinitely !
