Embark on an epic journey through Middle-Earth as you explore the iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.

Trip Details

• This is hosted by one of our tour supplier partners
• North & South Island Self Drive
• Starts in Auckland, finishes in Queenstown
• 14 days/13 nights
• Accommodations: Hotels, motels, condos, and more
• Rental car included – First time driving in New Zealand? Check out these tips for a safe and successful self drive holiday.
• Price: from $3,516 per person (twin share, low season)

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Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome To Middle Earth

Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest metropolitan area. Surrounded by native bush, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches, Auckland is a haven for both adventurers and urban explorers.

Upon landing, you will be met at the Auckland airport by private driver and transferred to your accommodation. Once settled, feel free to wander through world-class museums and galleries in the city centre, or enjoy a peaceful retreat at the Auckland Gardens.

Day 2: Explore Auckland

Perched on the edge of a large natural harbour, New Zealand’s ‘City of Sails’ offers the best of both worlds. Sandy beaches, native bush and lush rainforests give way to a vibrant urban culture, humming with life.

There are PLENTY of amazing things to do here, but if you’re the outdoorsy type, we recommend you venture to the top of Auckland’s highest volcano, Mt Eden, and take in soaring views of the gulf. Or, you can hop on a ferry to Rangitoto Island and hike to the top of the volcanic island instead.

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Suggested Activity 1: Wētā Workshop Unleashed

Explore the making of these worlds of horror, sci-fi and fantasy with this 90-minute guided experience. This tour will cover three fully developed and original film concepts: A nail-biting horror Fauna, a fantasy epic Age of the Ever-Clan, and the mind-bending sci-fi Origins. 

Be immersed by a specially-created unique sweeping cinematic soundtrack, animatronic creatures, physical and digital interactives, hyper-realistic sculpted giants and characters, a horror house experience, and much more.

Suggested Activity 2: Intro into Special Effects at Wētā Workshop Unleashed

Ever wanted to design a gruesome wound inflicted by a terrifying monster and apply it using prosthetic effects? Now’s your chance! At Wētā Unleashed Intro to Special Effects workshop, the talented crew at Wētā Workshop Unleashed will teach you the insider tricks to create realistic, spine-chilling effects that will have your friends cringing in terror—and laughing in disbelief!

Day 3: Auckland to Hobbiton 

Pick up your rental car and head southbound through the lush farmland of the Waikato region. The Bombay Hills mark the outer boundary of the greater Auckland area, and its here you turn inland towards Matamata. This is the real Middle Earth, and where you’ll see many locations used in the filming of The Lord of The Rings and The Hobbit, as well as the actual set of Hobbiton.

Featured activity: Behind the Scenes Tour at Hobbiton

Immerse yourself in the magic of Middle-earth on this exclusive walking tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set. In a small group of up to 30, explore the iconic 12-acre set, wander past famous Hobbit Holes and Bagshot Row, and step inside a Hobbit’s home. Relax at The Green Dragon Inn with a drink from the Southfarthing range, then savour a hearty banquet lunch at The Millhouse, with second helpings encouraged. Go behind the scenes in the Art Department’s workshop to uncover the craftsmanship behind Hobbiton’s enchanting details. Conclude your adventure with a Hobbit-style platter of cheese, chutneys, and fruit at a hidden spot with stunning views.

Once you’re finished at Hobbiton, you’ll continue on to Waitomo, stopping first in the charming town of Cambridge. With its English country village ambience, Cambridge boasts delightful cafes, antique stores, and a picturesque village green.

Along the way you’ll pass through Otorohanga known for its “Kiwiana” energy, from here it’s a short drive to the iconic limestone hills of Waitomo, home to its world-famous cave complex and breathtaking underground wonders.

Suggested Activity: Glow Worm Caves Tour

Explore a 30 million year old cave network spread across three levels. You’ll travel deep underground through the limestone caves viewing stalactites and stalagmites as well as hearing about the caves historical and geological significance. You’ll then hop into a boat and glide silently through the glow worm grotto – a galaxy of tiny living lights!

Day 4: Visit sites from The Hobbit and The Rings of Power before heading to the shadow of Mt Doom

During your short drive south from Waitomo you’ll pass through the rugged rural countryside of the King Country. Your destination of Piopio is home to the Mangaotaki Rocks, which formed the striking backdrop for scenes in the Hobbit movies. In addition to a tour of the film location, Piopio is also home to the Crafty Pigeon and Fat Pigeon café, where you can stop for lunch and browse New Zealand crafts. 

Hairy Feet Scenic Film Location Tour

Visit the stunning farm location at Mangaotaki Rocks Piopio – near Waitomo – where the troll and campfire scenes in ‘The Hobbit’ were filmed. You’ll see the towering limestone cliffs, massive rock formations and primaeval forest that make up the location for Staddle Farm and Trollshaws. You can also have your photo taken in the exact spot where Bilbo received his magical sword ‘Sting’ from Gandalf. You’ll join a personally guided tour of several key filming locations including the site where the Orcs and Wargs began attacking and the ‘exit from the cave’ containing the troll hoard.

Once finished, you’ll travel south into the heart of the Central Volcanic Plateau, Tongariro National Park. This World Heritage Park is home to three active volcanoes – Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe – as well as many walking tracks, adventure activities and the renowned Tongariro Crossing.

Sky Waka Gondola Sightseeing Trip with Whakapapa – Open Dated Voucher

During the summer months you can take advantage of the skifield facilities and take the gondola over Mt Ruapehu’s otherworldly terrain.  You’ll travel to an altitude of 2020 metres where you’ll be treated to magnificent views of Tongariro National Park, including the iconic peaks of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe, the latter featured as Mt Doom in the Lord of the Rings movies.

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Day 5: Arrive in the middle of Middle-Earth, Wellington 

This drive takes you to New Zealand’s capital, Wellington. Leaving Whakapapa Village, make your way through the Rangipo Desert. Catch a glimpse of the volcanically active Mt Ruapehu, and take in the view of Mt. Ngauruhoe, better known as Mt Doom. Continue south to the rural towns of Taihape, Mangaweka, and Bulls before arriving on the spectacular Kapiti Coast before arriving in Wellington City.

Often referred to as ‘mini Melbourne’, this windy city is a melting pot of art, culture, food, and fashion. Quirky laneway bars, underground art shows, and hipster eateries make up its inner-city vibe, while a host of sandy beaches outside the urban bustle bring a cheerful feel.

Suggested activities:

• Go behind the scenes at Weta Workshop Experience, the Oscar Award Winning design studio behind Lord Of The Rings, The Hobbit, and Avatar.
• Travel outside the city to Martinborough, New Zealand’s spectacular wine country.
• For an educational day out, learn about New Zealand’s native species at Zealandia, the world’s first fully-fenced eco-sanctuary and home to over 40 types of endangered and native birds.

Day 6: Lord of The Rings Full Day Tour

Explore the enchanting world of Wellington with a full-day tour of iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings. Begin with a behind-the-scenes guided tour of the award-winning Weta Workshop, where movie magic comes to life. Wander through Rivendell, stroll the Fords of Isen, and walk in the footsteps of Gandalf and Saruman in the Gardens of Isen. Visit the sites of Helm’s Deep and the River Anduin, and relive the moments from the “Shortcut to Mushrooms” and “Get off the Road” scenes on Mt. Victoria.

Enjoy panoramic views of Wellington’s city and harbor from Mt. Victoria and take a scenic drive through the charming Eastern suburbs. A must-do experience for any fan of Middle-earth!

Day 7: Interislander Ferry Wellington to Picton

The journey between Wellington and Picton takes around 3 hours and has been described as ‘one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world’.

From the Cook Strait, enjoy spectacular views of the Kaikōura Ranges on the South Island. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds and this region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays offer remarkable photographic opportunities. The final leg of the cruise travels through Queen Charlotte Sound before coming to an end in the picturesque town of Picton.

Hobbit Barrel Run Kayak Trip

Immerse yourself in Sir Peter Jackson’s ‘The Hobbit’. Journeying down the Beautiful Pelorus River you’ll see actual filming locations including the rocks where Bilbo Baggins stood, the place where the dwarfs exited the barrels and the exact location where Kili was shot. Not just for Lord of the Rings fans, this spectacular kayaking trip will enthral anyone wanting to experience the beauty of New Zealand’s rivers.

Day 8: Picton to Christchurch

From Picton you will cross the hills of the Marlborough ranges as you head towards one of the most spectacular coastlines of the South Island, the Kaikōura Coast. To the east lie the turquoise waters of the South Pacific Ocean and to the west stand the towering Kaikōura Ranges.

The drive from Kaikōura to Christchurch continues to follow the spectacular coastline before heading inland and through North Canterbury’s major wine region, the Waipara Valley to arrive in Christchurch City.

Suggested activities:

• To take in some arts and culture, pay a visit to the Canterbury Museum or the Christchurch Art Gallery.
• Take a step back in time with a tram around the city or walk along the Avon River.
• Take a cultural eating tour or explore the nearby wine country.

Day 9: Explore the Canterbury High Country on a full day Lord of the Rings Edoras tour 

Step into the world of Middle-earth on the Lord of the Rings Edoras Tour and visit the stunning filming location of Edoras at Mt Potts High Country Station.

Explore the remote and breathtaking Mt Sunday, transformed into the capital city of Rohan for the iconic trilogy. Immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of this incredible area, surrounded by crystal-clear lakes, vibrant blue rivers, and crisp mountain air. A must-do experience for any Lord of the Rings fan!

Day 10: Christchurch to Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park

Drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury plains. Ascending Burkes pass you’ll come to the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo. Follow the road and take in the view of Aoraki-Mt Cook from the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its glacier fed turquoise blue colour. Continue along the lake to your final destination, Aoraki-Mt Cook Village.

Suggested activity: Glacier Explorers

Experience 500-year-old icebergs up close on the Aoraki-Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and one of only three in the world! See towering ice cliffs and floating icebergs from the safety of a specially designed boat.

Day 11: Journey across the mountains to Queenstown, home to the Pillar of Kings and more!

Leaving the alpine region of Aoraki Mt Cook, you’ll travel through the lakeside town of Twizel, then a little further to Omarama the gliding capital of New Zealand. Continue on and arrive in the quaint village of Tarras, then continue on a short way to the historic Bendigo Reserve, one of Otago’s original gold mining settlements. Follow the road to Cromwell, and keep going through the sheer cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge towards Gibbston, one of New Zealand’s premier wine growing regions.

See the historic Kawarau Bridge where you can bungy jump or relax and watch others take the plunge. Approaching Queenstown, the Remarkables mountain range comes into view as you arrive into the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Suggested activities:

• Take a stroll through the beautiful lakefront parks and gardens,
• Browse through market stalls on weekends,
• Ride on the 100-year-old historic Steamship – TSS Earnslaw
• Take the Queenstown Gondola up to Bob’s Peak and soak up the panoramic views of the magnificent lake and mountain ranges.
• Explore Steamer Wharf, which is full of delicious eateries, and the O’Connells Pavillion, which is great for shopping.
• And after all of that, if you do want the adrenaline rush, take your pick from the Shotover Jet, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge, or Heli-hike.

Lord of the Rings and Glacier Explorer Flight

On this Lord of the Rings Glacier Explorers flight, you’ll fly through the land where many parts of the Lord of the Rings trilogy were filmed along with the chance to fly with our most experienced pilot, Alfie Speight, who was the principal filming pilot for the series.

Fly along the Shotover River to the scene where Arwen turns to face the Nazgul at the Ford of Bruinen. Fly over the mountain range from the opening scene of The Two Towers on the way to landing on a glacier alongside the Misty Mountains and get a sense of what it might be like to cross The Redhorn Pass. Head across to Glenorchy via the Dart Valley and Mount Earnslaw to see the natural features you may better recognize as Isengard, Amon Hen, and Lothlorien. Experience a second landing amongst one of these scenes to truly feel immersed in Middle-earth.

Day 12: Lord of the Rings Queenstown Safari Jeep Tour

Embark on a thrilling Lord of the Rings Safari, combining breathtaking filming locations with exhilarating 4WD action. Discover the magic of Middle-earth as expert guides bring Tolkien’s world to life with fascinating facts and tales. Visit iconic sites like the Misty Mountains, the Pillars of the Kings (Argonath), and more. Travel along a historic gold mining road, try your hand at gold panning, and soak in spectacular panoramic views of Queenstown’s stunning landscapes. A must for any Lord of the Rings fan and adventure seeker!

Day 13: Venture up to Lothlorien, known as Glenorchy

Go on a scenic adventure through some of the iconic locations used in the filming of Lord of the Rings. Although none of the sets are left behind, the landscapes will be instantly recognisable. Follow the shores of Lake Wakatipu to the small town of Glenorchy and enjoy the spectacular views of the Remarkables Range as you drive.

From Glenorchy, you’ll head into the beech forests of Paradise, located on the outskirts of Mount Aspiring National Park – before heading up the Dart Valley and back. Film locations you’ll see include Isengard, Lothlorien, Ithilien Camp and the Seat of Seeing.

Day 14: Namárië (Farewell) to Middle-Earth

Explore more of Queenstown before dropping your rental car at the airport depot.

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