While Don was driving along a street in Matamata, he spotted one of the best examples of a deciduous flowering magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana) that he has ever seen. This magnificent tree was around 25m (80′) high, with an even greater spread. The owner of the property, John Christophers, was not aware that he probably had the world’s best magnolia in his backyard. He told Don that the tree had been growing there over the past 40 years, without any special care or attention.
Proud hobbit
John was one of six Matamata residents who played the part of a hobbit in the movie ‘The Lord of the Rings’. Don had some fun demonstrating one of the tricks that was used in the film. Even though John is a man of average height, with clever camera placement he appeared very small. John quipped that he didn’t want to be digitally reduced in the film, but thinks he probably was!
Further information
Matamata is about two hour’s drive south of Auckland on State Highway 27.
Tours of the Hobbiton movie set run three times per day at 10am, 12.30pm and 3pm. (The 10am tour is suspended in the winter months.)
Rings Scenic Tours/Hobbiton Tours
Phone: 0011-64-7888-6838
Fax: 0011-64-7888-5653
Email:[email protected]
Website: www.hobbitontours.com