“The Rise of Hobbiton” - The Tourists Gaze, Hyperreality and Magic Realism

This thesis explores film tourism in New Zealand, specifically focusing on the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Through an exportation of the tourist gaze, hyperreality, and magic realism. This thesis investigates the dynamics that shape tourists’ views and how tourists perceived New Zealand’s landscape in relation to film tourism. This thesis will analyse the balance between preserving the authenticity of New Zealand and embracing the hyperreal and magical elements inherent in film tourism. The uses of promotional materials from Tourism New Zealand and visitor experiences from tours such as the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour aim to uncover the fantasy, adventure and otherworldly promotion of New Zealand.