A few days ago someone mentioned the Treaty of Waitangi was caused by the Maori going to war, this is incorrect. The purpose of the treaty was to stop the French annexing NZ as French territory. Even though their are huge problems with the treaty, treaty claims and abuses from all. it is significantly better than what the french would have done ( ask any native New Caledonian). The NZ Land wars were in the 1860's, the treaty was signed in 1840. Another bone of contention is the maori-english translation, whether or not it was a literal or figurative translation.

Hobbiton- This is in Morrinsville (Scotsmans Valley) some 8 hours north by car from Wellington, 1 1/2- 2 hours south from Auckland. There are plenty of tourism guides around with information.

The geography thoughout the country is significantly contrasting and the weather very changeable for good information go to Tourism NZ website