Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Christopher Luxon, who greeted the fans at Auckland Airport, said the visit was a huge opportunity to showcase destination New Zealand to a substantial global audience.
"These lucky fans have a fantastic itinerary planned, visiting some of New Zealand's most stunning landscapes.
"The social media coverage generated by these fans and the stories the media group will produce have the potential to be seen by millions of people around the world and we hope this may inspire more people to consider their own visit to Middle Earth."
Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Kevin Bowler was also at the airport to welcome the fans to Middle Earth.
"There is no doubt that the week that lies ahead for these fans is a once in a lifetime, ultimate trip which will connect the landscapes of Middle Earth with the experiences of New Zealand and bring to life a Middle Earth journey for each and every fan.
"The Hobbit Fan Fellowship will show how the fantasy of Middle Earth can become reality in the form of a New Zealand holiday, with the presence of international media in New Zealand ensuring this story is told to a worldwide audience."
The Hobbit: The Battle of The Five Armies is due to be released in December.
