Upon arriving in Auckland from Christchurch, we set out to explore the city with the limited time we had left.

We wandered through the streets and hidden alleyways, taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Each turn revealed something new—charming cafés, street art, and bustling shops, all adding to Auckland’s unique character.

We treated ourselves to some ice cream by the pier, enjoying the peaceful view as commuters hurried home from work. The contrast between the city’s rush and our slow, relaxed moment made it all the more enjoyable.

Missing the Crab Shack we loved in Wellington, we decided to have dinner at the Auckland location to see how it compared. The verdict? Wellington’s Crab Shack still takes the crown! While the meal was decent, it just didn’t quite match up to the flavors and experience we remembered from Wellington.

The next day, we embarked on a three-hour drive from Auckland to Matamata—our destination? Hobbiton!

Though the drive was long, the scenic landscapes along the way made it an enjoyable journey. And once we arrived, we knew instantly—it was worth every mile.

The Hobbiton set is located on a family-run farm, nestled among rolling green hills that look like they’re straight out of a movie—because they are! To explore the set, visitors must join a guided tour, which provides fascinating insights into the filming locations and behind-the-scenes details of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.

The original Hobbiton set was not built to last. The hobbit hole facades were originally constructed using untreated timber, plywood, and polystyrene, and much of the set was partially torn down after filming The Lord of the Rings.

However, in 2010, the set was rebuilt in a more permanent fashion for the filming of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, ensuring that fans could experience the magic of Middle-earth for years to come.

There are 44 hobbit holes scattered throughout the set, each adding to the charm of Hobbiton. However, visitors can only enter a few select ones, and even then, the interiors are small, unfinished spaces with earth-lined walls—just enough to give a glimpse of life in the Shire.

The hobbit holes on site were designed and built in three different scales to create the right perspective for filming. Some were constructed to the correct size, reflecting the smaller stature of hobbits. Others were built on a larger scale to make the hobbit actors appear even smaller when filmed in front of them. Additionally, some were designed in a “dwarf” scale for scenes featuring dwarves.

Interestingly, apart from a few exceptions, the color of the front door indicates the scale. For example, hobbit holes with a blue door were built to the correct scale for humans. This clever use of perspective tricks helped bring the world of Hobbiton to life on screen.

The set details were amazing. Every artifacts and works on the set have been designed and painted in accordance to the narrative of the Hobbit.

Even the see-saw at the party tree is functional and the kids could actually have fun under the tree.

Jaydon riding into “Green Dragon” inn. “Green Dragon” inn is a functional pub where they serve drinks. Everyone has a complimentary drink which is part of the tour.

As we bid goodbye to New Zealand, the surrounding set of Hobbiton has imprint a unforgettable memory of an island that is full of lovely scenery and friendly people. Till we meet again, thank you!

After the tour, we made our way back to Auckland. Along the way, we stop by Hamilton town and had our lunch. We did light shopping in the mall and played a game of mini golf.

We stayed in Holiday Inn which is near to the airport.

The next morning, with the sufficient rest, we had a comfortable journey back to Singapore on Qantas flight.

Jaydon’s first meal when we reached back to Singapore. A plate of wanton noodle.