Experience the Magic of Middle-earth

An exclusive opportunity has arisen for fans of holiday films to experience the magic of the faraway lands from their favourite movies. For the first time ever, guests are welcome to stay overnight at the original Hobbiton™ Movie Set, located on the property of Russell Alexander. This is a chance for visitors to live like Bilbo Baggins and retreat to The Shire™ for an unforgettable overnight stay at Hobbiton, as featured in the popular The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies.

Located in the beautiful Waikato region of New Zealand, this 2,500-acre working farm boasts rolling green hills that resemble the Shire™ as described in J. R. R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. This stunning scenery captured the attention of Sir Peter Jackson's movie scouts over two decades ago, and they knew they had found the perfect location for the Hobbits' home. Now, this holiday season, you have the opportunity to experience it for yourself. 

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, Airbnb has partnered with Alexander to offer three unique two-night stays for up to four guests at a discounted rate of NZD $10 per night*. Guests will have the opportunity to explore 44 Hobbit Holes, The Millhouse, The Green Dragon Inn, and other iconic locations from J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, for an unforgettable and unexpected journey.

With sweeping views of The Shire, they’ll enjoy:

Experience the ultimate Middle-earth getaway with curated overnight accommodation by the trilogies' Creative Director Brian Massey, including a writing nook fit for Bilbo Baggins at The Millhouse. Indulge in private access to a personal Hobbit Hole, designed for relaxing moments of Preciousss™ downtime and afternoon tea. Enjoy an evening banquet at The Green Dragon Inn, featuring a feast of beef and ale stew, whole roast chickens, freshly baked bread and plenty of ale, plus Second Breakfast™ and Elevenses™ served daily. Take a behind-the-scenes private tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, but remember, one does not simply walk into Middle-earth, there are rules!  

House Rules
- No unexpected parties, please –  unless with Gandalf and company.
- Bare feet are allowed, but wipe them first.
- Magical rings permitted, but keep them secret, keep them safe.
- Pony parking is provided only at The Green Dragon Inn.
- Straying far at night is discouraged, thanks to multiple troll sightings of late.
- No pets are allowed, except Pickles the resident Hobbiton cat.
- Never laugh at live dragons…

For more than two decades, we’ve welcomed millions of passionate fans to Hobbiton Movie Set but never before has anyone had the opportunity to spend a night in Middle-earth. I am delighted to share the beauty of my family’s farm and pleased to be hosting this iconic location on Airbnb for fans from around the world.

Host Russell Alexander

How to book

If you're a fan of Hobbits, elves, wizards, and other fantasy creatures, you'll want to mark Wednesday, December 14th at 10:00 AM NZDT on your calendar. That's when bookings will open for three overnight stays at the Hobbiton Movie Set in New Zealand, taking place from March 2-4, March 9-11, and March 16-18, 2023.

To request a booking, you'll need to have a verified Airbnb profile, a history of positive reviews, and be at least 18 years old. The maximum occupancy for each stay is four people. The property has two bedrooms, one with a queen bed and the other with two king singles.

Please note that guests are responsible for their own transportation to and from Auckland, New Zealand. However, round-trip car transportation will be provided for the two-hour journey between the airport and the property. Just remember, a Wizard is never late, so make sure you arrive at your stay precisely when you mean to. Don't miss out on this magical experience, request to book now at airbnb.com/hobbiton. You Shall Not Pass! (without requesting to book, of course).

 

Press release and photos courtesy of Airbnb. P
Photos ©Larnie Nicolson