The New Zealand-based set of The Hobbit, the prequel to the Lord of the Rings films currently in pre-production, is reportedly to become a permanent visitor attraction after filming.

According to the Waikato Times, Hobbiton, the home of the titular character, Bilbo Baggins, is being "built to last" by director Peter Jackson's Three Foot Six production company.

The village will boast the party tree, the Green Dragon inn, as well as the Hobbits' houses.

Brett Hodge, owner of Matamata Post and Rails, which has supplied the timber for The Hobbit since construction began in February, told the newspaper: "What they did last time was build a temporary set, but now it's a permanent set.

"Once the filming is over the set will stay as a permanent tourist attraction."