Hobbiton listed exclusively on Airbnb for $10 per night

Marking the 10th anniversary of The Hobbit: An unexpected Journey and 20 years of touring, Hobbiton has offered the public the chance to book a night at the Hobbiton set through Airbnb for just $10.

Hobbiton, nestled in the picturesque pastures of New Zealand’s Waikato region on a 2,500 acre working farm and as seen in The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit franchises, has been listed exclusively only on Airbnb for fans to stay overnight for the first time ever.

Russell Alexander is inviting guests to his family’s property to live like Bilbo Baggins and retreat to The Shire™ for an overnight stay at Hobbiton, as featured in the famed The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies.

Fans will get the chance to live like Hobbits in the original filming location and explore the behind-the-scenes making of the film trilogies that have become an unexpected holiday classic.

Guests will be welcomed to the New Zealand countryside with storybook landscapes that bear a striking similarity to The Shire™ as described by J. R. R. Tolkien in The Lord of the Rings, and which captivated Sir Peter Jackson’s movie scouts more than two decades ago.

René de Monchy, Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive notes “The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings films helped grow the appeal of travel to New Zealand amongst audiences around the world. Discovering the magic behind these films remains a compelling drawcard for visitors 10 years on, and one of many incredible experiences to be sought out during a visit to New Zealand.”

Alexander will host three individual two-night stays for up to four guests at $10 per night as an homage to the 10th anniversary of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, courtesy of Airbnb.  

Alexander shared “For more than two decades, we’ve welcomed millions of passionate fans to Hobbiton Movie Set, but never before has anyone had the opportunity to spend a night in Middle-earth. I am delighted to share the beauty of my family’s farm and pleased to be hosting this iconic location on Airbnb for fans from around the world.”

Susan Wheeldon, Airbnb country manager for Australia and New Zealand enthused "we are delighted to partner with Hobbiton Movie Set to give fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit an opportunity to experience Middle-earth like never before,” said Susan Wheeldon, Airbnb country manager for Australia and New Zealand.

“This special campaign brings the magic of these extraordinary films and the beauty of New Zealand to life for Airbnb's global community."  

With access to 44 Hobbit Holes, The Millhouse, The Green Dragon Inn, and other beloved locations from the work of J.R.R. Tolkien, guests will take an unexpected journey into Middle-earth for an experience unlike any other.  

However, as the organisers from Hobbiton say, one cannot "simply walk into Middle-earth."

In other words, like any Airbnb staycation, guests would need to follow some rules. This included, making sure bare feet were clean, not hosting any unexpected parties, not wandering in the night and no pets on set.

But organisers were hyped about Hobbiton's listing on Airbnb and were looking forward to welcoming the lucky visitors.

Bookings for the Hobbiton film set will be available from 10am on 14th December.