Pre-conference Tour

Experience the real Middle-earth with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the bucolic setting for The Shire that featured in the Peter Jackson directed films, 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit'. Your tour starts with a drive by coach and guide travelling through the picturesque 1,250-acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will escort you walking through the ten-acre site recounting fascinating details of how the Hobbiton set was created. The Hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn, Mill and other structures created for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films can be viewed and you will see how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle-earth. 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. Designed and crafted by the renowned creative teams behind the film trilogies, Bagshot Row offers an authentic glimpse into the charming dwellings of Hobbits going about daily life in the Shire. Your guide will lead you through one of two Hobbit Holes offering time to explore the detailed interiors, with each home designed to create an identical experience. Upon completion of your tour enjoy a complimentary beverage in the Green Dragon Inn before following your guide up to the Party Marquee.    

The Party Marquee is adjacent to The Green Dragon Inn with an exquisite view across the water. The painted canvas exterior, vibrant bunting and colourful lanterns means visitors are immersed in the festive magic of the movies. Your meal is served buffet style from a specially themed table, bursting with hobbit fare, with shared table seating to dine family style with your group to conclude your Middle-earth adventure.

Tour non-exclusive – other travellers may join. 

Afterwards travel over the bush-clad Mamaku Ranges to the thermal wonderland of Rotorua.

Evening:
This evening transfer to a marae site (traditional Māori village) for a powhiri (traditional welcome), concert of Māori song and dance and hangi dinner. This is a special and educational experience offering a wonderful introduction to the spirit, talents and humour of the Māori people. After dinner enjoy a short night bush walk by torchlight to see the bush glowworms, learn about the traditional uses of native flora, and see the source of the Fairy Spring with trout and eels swimming in the crystal-clear water.  Afterwards you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Accommodation:  Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua – 1 night  – Superior Plus Rooms

Accommodation:  Pacific Harbour Motor Inn – 1 night  – Mixture of Rooms (studios and one-bedroom suites)