Pakistan to Habbiton movie set
My Journey from Nawabshah, Pakistan to the Hobbiton Movie Set in New Zealand
By Muhammad Yaseen Keerio
It was early one morning in Nawabshah, my hometown in Pakistan, when I decided to embark on a journey of a lifetime. As a fan of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, there was one place I had always dreamt of visiting—the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set in New Zealand. With my bags packed, a sense of excitement in my heart, and a flight booked, I was ready to leave my small village for the magical land of Middle-earth.
Leaving Nawabshah for Auckland
After a long flight, I arrived in Auckland, New Zealand, full of anticipation. Auckland, a beautiful city with its lush green landscapes and bustling streets, was my first stop in this unforgettable journey. As a Pakistani traveler, it was fascinating to be in such a different place—everything felt new, and I couldn’t wait to explore.
I spent a couple of days in Auckland, visiting iconic spots like the Sky Tower, strolling through the vibrant Auckland Domain, and soaking in the beauty of this magnificent city. But, in the back of my mind, I was focused on one destination: the Hobbiton Movie Set.
The Journey from Auckland to Hobbiton
Hobbiton, located in the small town of Matamata, was a 2-hour drive from Auckland, about 176 kilometers (110 miles) away. The scenic drive was filled with rolling hills, lush fields, and beautiful landscapes—just the kind of view I had always imagined when thinking of Middle-earth. I decided to rent a car, as I wanted to take my time and enjoy the picturesque New Zealand countryside along the way.
I passed through quaint towns, winding roads, and endless green fields until I reached the magical village of Matamata, where the famous Hobbiton Movie Set awaited. I had seen pictures and heard stories, but nothing prepared me for the feeling of walking through the gates of the Shire, into the world of Tolkien’s imagination.
Stepping into Middle-earth
Arriving at Hobbiton, I was immediately struck by the sheer beauty of the place. The set was exactly like what I had seen in the movies—the rolling hills, the charming Hobbit holes, and the lush, green gardens. As I wandered through the village, I felt as though I had stepped into the world of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
One of the first stops was Bag End, the famous home of Bilbo Baggins. Standing in front of the round green door, I couldn’t help but imagine Bilbo’s quiet life as he prepared for his unexpected adventure. I took plenty of photos, feeling like a hobbit myself.
Next, I made my way to The Green Dragon Inn, where I sat down to enjoy a refreshing drink just like the characters in the movies. The atmosphere was so authentic, I half-expected to see Gandalf walking in with a pipe in hand. I took a few moments to just relax and soak in the surroundings—the sound of the wind rustling through the trees and the scent of fresh grass made me feel like I was truly in Middle-earth.
Why Hobbiton is Famous
The Hobbiton Movie Set isn’t just any film location—it’s a place where fantasy and reality blend seamlessly. The set was originally built for the filming of The Lord of the Rings trilogy and was later expanded for The Hobbit movies. The iconic Hobbit Holes, Bag End, The Party Tree, and other well-known locations from the films are all here.
But what makes Hobbiton truly special is the attention to detail. There are no digital effects or green screens here—just a beautifully preserved, real-world village that feels alive and authentic. For fans like me, it’s the ultimate pilgrimage, and I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude as I walked through the world that Tolkien had created.
Filming Locations
Hobbiton is famous for being the filming location of:
- The Lord of the Rings Trilogy: Directed by Peter Jackson, these films brought Tolkien’s epic world to the big screen, and Hobbiton was where some of the most iconic scenes were filmed.
- The Hobbit Trilogy: The prequel to The Lord of the Rings, telling the story of Bilbo Baggins’ unexpected adventure, was also shot in this magical location.
Exploring Hobbiton: A Pakistani’s Perspective
As a Pakistani traveler, I found Hobbiton to be a unique and surreal experience. New Zealand, with its stunning landscapes, was the perfect setting for Tolkien’s world, and it felt like a dream come true to walk in the footsteps of the beloved characters from the movies.
I would recommend that anyone from Pakistan planning to visit Hobbiton take the following tips into account:
- Plan Your Trip in Advance: Hobbiton is a popular destination, so it’s essential to book your tickets and tours ahead of time.
- Travel by Car for the Scenic Route: Renting a car is a great way to enjoy New Zealand’s breathtaking countryside on the way to Hobbiton.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the spring or summer when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are lush and vibrant.
- Pack Comfortably: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking around the set for hours, and the weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers and a raincoat.
My Reflections
As I drove back from Hobbiton to Auckland, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment. The journey from Nawabshah to Hobbiton was more than just a trip—it was a personal adventure into the heart of a world that had always fascinated me. For any Pakistani traveler, visiting Hobbiton is a chance to experience the magic of Middle-earth in the most authentic way possible.
I left Hobbiton with memories that will last a lifetime, feeling like I had truly stepped into the Shire. For anyone from Pakistan dreaming of visiting Hobbiton, my advice is simple—pack your bags, plan your trip, and prepare to be transported to a world of fantasy, beauty, and unforgettable moments.
