Feast fit for the King of Rohan

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Jen Hussey (left) lights a birthday candle for Bilbo and Frodo Baggins with guests including...
Jen Hussey (left) lights a birthday candle for Bilbo and Frodo Baggins with guests including Fiona Ward (third from left). PHOTO: SUPPLIED

By Dellwyn Moylan

A group of Canterbury Tolkien fans marked International Hobbit Day with a special feast in Middle-earth.

Mt Potts Station near Mt Sunday is well known among fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Kiwi director Peter Jackson used the stunning landscape to create the mythical area of Rohan for his LOTR film trilogy.

The Hobbit fans Sam South (left) and Darian Jones from Christchurch. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
The Hobbit fans Sam South (left) and Darian Jones from Christchurch. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Mt Potts Lodge duty manager and event organiser Jen Hussey said the day was about celebrating the two beloved characters Bilbo and Frodo Baggins on their birthday date of September 22.

She said Mt Potts was the ideal location to mark the day.

Mt Sunday is farmland, but open for people to walk up and share in the amazing landscape and its connection with the movies.

About 40 guests, including two dressed according to the theme, gathered around a giant table for the feast.

There was roast lamb, chicken, pork, roast vegetables, bread and tarts, traditional bread and butter pudding, fruit crumble, toffee tart with custard and ice cream, and a few beverages including port, wine and ales.

"It was like a true Shire feast, gathered around the grand table enjoying a meal that would make even Bilbo Baggins proud," Hussey said.

"Travellers who come through the lodge kept asking if we were holding an event so the idea to do this was inspired from the lovers of Lord of the Rings," she said.

"I was absolutely blown away with the response and that people were so excited to see this happening.

"It was an amazing day and thank you to everyone who supported us and we have a whole year to get our costumes for next year’s shenanigans."

Fiona Ward from Ashburton said she loved the delicious feast and being able sit around the table and meet other fans of The Hobbit.

"I am looking forward to next year’s celebration.

"Knowing Jen, her mind will be coming up with more ideas to make a memorable event for local and international visitors," Ward said.