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Zorbing in New Zealand
Scenic Train in New Zealand

Matamata - Home of Hobbiton

A couple of hours south of Auckland lies the lush farmland of the Matamata. Famous for dairying and fine thoroughbred horses, it's easy to see why these green pastures and rolling hills were chosen to portray Hobbiton and The Shire.

Although much of the set was deconstructed post filming, hobbit fans can still visit Hobbiton, wander among the hobbit holes and listen to the fascinating commentary about how it was all created.

Got a taste for bigger caverns? Check out Waikato's massive Waitomo Caves for dramatic stalactites, stalagmites and zillions of sparkling glowworms. You can glide through on a barge, take a black water rafting trip, or even abseil (rappel) down into the abyss!

For further information on the Waikato region view our Waikato regional information section.

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Top 10 Holiday Parks

Top 10 Holiday Parks

Stay locally with Top 10 and the kids stay free.

Elm Wildlife Tours

Elm Wildlife Tours

Tour options for a wildlife experience of a lifetime.

Active New Zealand

Active New Zealand

NZ's most experienced adventure tour operator.

Red Carpet Tours

Red Carpet Tours

NZ's premier Lord of the Rings tour company.

Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferry

Bluebridge Cook Strait ferries

Cross between the Islands on a Bluebridge ferry.

Thrifty Car Rental

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Thrifty has you covered with 31 locations.