It will allow 3,500 visitors per day and a million per year, up from 300,000, and loosens noise restrictions opening up options for more events. Locals were given a period to oppose Plan Change 50 after a hearings process, however, no appeals were received. Hobbiton CEO Russell Alexander said they are pleased given the rapid changes Hobbiton and Matamata have experienced. Matamata-Piako mayor Jan Barnes said she was pleased the independent commissioner was able to find a compromise that worked for council, Hobbiton and Matamata. For the Hobbiton visitors it will be very exciting because often the tours were full.

Source: Stuff October 03, 2019 23:40 UTC