Hobbiton, New Zealand 2024

Crystal Cruises provided a super-special complementary evening for 2024 World Cruisers at Hobbiton. This is where Sir Perter Jackson filmed “The Lord of the Rings” books.

 “The Hobbit” was published almost ninety years ago and “The Lord of the Rings” books came shortly thereafter. In 1998, director Sir Peter Jackson was searching for a location to film the J.R.R. Tolkien novels.

An aerial search across New Zealand found the perfect location, a 1,250 acre sheep farm, just outside of Matamata.

Even the beautiful drive there gave us a clue as to why Jackson chose this location.

It was so fun walking around and I know nothing about the novels or films. I can’t wait to check them out.

Upon our return the crew was waiting with warm towels and champagne. Great evening.