Firth Tower Reserve and Museum

Experience Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Your guided tour starts with a drive through our picturesque 1,250 acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Journey past the colourful Hobbit Hole™ doors that scatter the hillsides, including the iconic Bag End, home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, before arriving at Bagshot Row™ for a glimpse of the interior of a humble Hobbit’s home. Continue along the pathways past The Millhouse, across the double-arch stone bridge and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will enjoy a complimentary, exclusive beverage Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ range to conclude your Middle-earth adventure.

Your journey begins with a scenic riverside walk, offering breathtaking views over Lake Arapuni. Then, effortlessly cruise along the Waikato River Trail on a state-of-the-art e-bike, soaking in the stunning landscapes before a leisurely lunch at the charming Rhubarb Café or a secluded picnic spot. As the day winds down, immerse yourself in the twilight magic of our Glowworm Kayak Tour. Drift through the serene Pokaiwhenua Canyon, surrounded by shimmering glowworms and the soft sounds of nature - a truly mesmerising experience. Tailored for those who seek premium, private, and unforgettable adventures, this exclusive, all-in-one experience is the perfect way to discover the best of the Waikato in absolute comfort and style.

The Firth Tower was built in 1882 by Josiah Clifton Firth to provide a lookout over the country side. It was also used as the estate office and sleeping quarters for single men. The tower stands on rising ground commanding an extensive view of the surrounding country. The Firth Tower Historical Reserve is administered by the Matamata-Piako District Council and museum exhibits and displays are the work of the Matamata Historical Society. The Heritage Centre houses the archives of the Matamata area.

On this best-selling private tour, you have the unique opportunity to experience one world-famous visitor attraction on a personally guided one-day tour. On the way to Hobbiton we pass through the beautiful countryside of the Waikato and King Country. Our experienced guides will tell you about New Zealand and the amazing places you’ll see along the 2.5hr journey from Auckland to Hobbiton. As we drive southwards, we show you the sacred Taupiri Mountain as well as Ngaruawahia, the site of the famous Turangawaewae Marae (Maori meeting place) and seat of New Zealand's Maori King. We continue on to the Hobbiton Movie Set near the rural town of Matamata. Now you can see the Hobbiton Movie Set during a 2.5 hour GROUP tour. Drop-off in Rotorua.

Make the first footsteps in the morning dew on the Movie Set as part of our first tour of the day. Your tour guide will escort you through the 12 acre movie set, recounting fascinating details from filming the trilogies and pointing out the most iconic sites and scenes. After a visit to The Green Dragon™ Inn where you will be offered a complimentary beverage from our exclusive Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ range, follow your guide back over the double arch stone bridge to The Millhouse, just across the water from The Green Dragon Inn, where you will be treated to a breakfast spread fit for a Hobbit. After you've had your fill, it's time to make your way back to The Shire's Rest, after all, this is only the second of a Hobbit's seven daily meals.

Make the first footsteps in the morning dew on the Movie Set as part of our first tour of the day. Your tour guide will escort you through the 12 acre movie set, recounting fascinating details from filming the trilogies and pointing out the most iconic sites and scenes. After a visit to The Green Dragon™ Inn where you will be offered a complimentary beverage from our exclusive Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ range, follow your guide back over the double arch stone bridge to The Millhouse, just across the water from The Green Dragon Inn, where you will be treated to a breakfast spread fit for a Hobbit. After you've had your fill, it's time to make your way back to The Shire's Rest, after all, this is only the second of a Hobbit's seven daily meals.