Tales of Hobbit Holes

Tales of Hobbit Holes My journey to Hobbiton, Auckland

Peter Jackson scoured the vast lands of New Zealand on a chopper and found the Russell farm in Auckland. It was exactly what he needed, a lake in the middle of lust pastures. This magical location can be found in the heart of the Waikato region.

All eager to start the walking tour

Thanks to J, a precious sister who has spent the day with me.

I fell in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as I journeyed through the unequivocal beauty of the land, with the mighty Kaimai Ranges towering in the distance. The 12 acre set features hobbit holes of various sizes, the Mill and the Green Dragon Inn where I was served a non-alcoholic ginger ale. Alcoholic drinks are served too :-)

The scene that captured the attention of Sir Peter Jackson.

In one particular part of the farm, a magnificent pine tree towered over a nearby lake, adjacent to a rising hill. Bag End now sits atop that hill, overlooking the Party Tree, as that pine would later be known. The surrounding areas were untouched; no power lines, no buildings and no roads in sight. This meant that Sir Peter Jackson could leave the 20th century behind, and fully submerge himself in the fantasy world of Middle-earth™. (Source:http://www.hobbitontours.com/our-story/)

The Movie Set was left as it was, preserved carefully for us. You may remember some of these props from the trilogy.

This way to Hobbiton?

Hobbit Holes of various sizes and decorations

Hobbit Holes were constructed to different scales for filming purposes, depended on how big the character was meant to be. 44 permanently reconstructed Hobbit Holes, in the same fantastic detail seen in the movies

The most famous Hobbit Hole

The most iconic Hobbit Hole - The Hobbit Trilogy - Bilbo Baggins home

I was very impressed that the tree was constructed with a steel beam and with carefully manicured barks. Sir Peter Jackson was such a perfectionist and he had staff glue 25,000 leaves on this tree to remain true to the scene as described in the Trilogy by JRR Tolkien.

Scenes from other side of the lake

Breathtaking views

Perhaps another movie moment?

Serene. Surreal. Scenic

Photo worthy.

Best moments are made with friend moments xoxo

Very thankful for J

finished my tour with a ginger ale

Enjoying Nature

Journey back was equally breathtaking, clear blue skies all day

Created By

Alvena Sam

Appreciate

Credits:

All photos belong to Alvena Sam