best lotr tours new zealand

The 5 Best Lord of the Rings Tours in New Zealand [2024 Reviews]

If you’re looking for an adventure fit for Middle-earth enthusiasts and adventurers alike, look no further than the majestic landscapes of New Zealand.

As the real-life backdrop for the legendary J.R.R. Tolkien’s realm, you’ll be able to traverse lush forests, jagged mountains, ethereal valleys, all while learning about the secrets behind one of the most amazing fantasy epics ever.

If you want to do things the right way, I recommend opting for one of the 5 top LOTR tours in New Zealand, that are well worth your time and money. Let’s jump right in!

Best Lord of the Rings Tours in New Zealand

Quick answer: the 5 best lord of the rings tours in new zealand for 2024.

• Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch
• Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour from Queenstown
• Lord of the Rings and Glacier Helicopter Tour
• Wellington’s Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour including Lunch
• Half-Day Lord of the Rings 4WD Tour from Queenstown

Lord of the Rings Tours in New Zealand Reviews

1. lord of the rings, journey to edoras day tour from christchurch.

• Duration:  9 hours
• Departure: 66 Gloucester Street, Christchurch or Hotel pickup available
• Departure Time: 9:00 AM
• Includes:  Picnic lunch with sparkling wine, Driver/guide, Live commentary on board

Starting things off on the right foot, I knew I had to place the Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch first!

It’s the most comprehensive but also the longest of any on this list, perfect for those who have the entire free for adventuring! It’s beautiful, educational, engaging, and maybe even a little bit nerve-wracking, but makes for an absolutely breathtaking excursion that you’re sure to want to do again!

After being picked up at our hotel by our guide, we started out for Lake Clearwater, making a brief stop at the Mount Somers Hall so we could take a break and stretch our legs.

The 4WD vehicle we had for the day was smooth, spacious, and had nicely sized windows for viewing the incredible scenery outside.

As we drove along the varied terrain, our guide regaled us with some interesting commentary about the films, the geology of each area, and historical facts that only made it that much more entertaining.

Upon arrival to Edoras movie site, we took the route noblewoman Eowyn once walked, soaking in the impressive 360-degree views at the summit over the mirror-like lakes, jagged mountain peaks, and charming farmland.

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We got to see pics of exclusive BTS photos of when Edoras was being built, as well as important features of Middle-earth, like the Misty Mountains, River Snowbourn, and much more.

For me, it was fascinating learning about why Peter Jackson decided on this particular site in the entire world to film the famed trilogy.

We then took a well-deserved break for a picnic lunch complete with sparkling wine, before snapping some pics with cool replica props like Gimli’s axe or the sword of Aragorn!

We then got back into the car to reminisce over all of the amazing things we saw that day, filled with incredible scenery and fun facts! This is a must-do for any Lord of the Rings fan, or just for those who’d like to learn more about the local scenery from a knowledgeable guide!

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. lord of the rings scenic half day tour from queenstown.

• Duration:  4 hours
• Departure: 43 Camp Street, Queenstown or Hotel pickup available
• Departure Time: 8:00 AM or 1:40 PM
• Includes:  Morning or afternoon tea with cake, biscuits and coffee, umbrellas provided, guided tour, live commentary, optional LOTR costumes, exclusive access to Arcadia Station filming locations

If the previous tour sounds like fun to you but you don’t have the entire day to spend out adventuring, I have the perfect alternative for you.

The Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour from Queenstown  packs a ton into just a few hours, where you’ll get to learn all about the filming locations and see many firsthand.

With two different start times to choose from, they try to make it as convenient as possible to fit this amazing experience into your schedule. You don’t have to worry at all about booking separate transportation to get to the tour offices, because they’ll pick you up right from your hotel lobby!

This is great, because I do recommend bringing along a jacket and other warm clothing, even if it’s warm in Queenstown as it can get chilly up there.

Anyway, we cruised right along in our comfortable vehicle while we listened to our guide tell us all sorts of fun facts about the films and the Southern Alps.

Our first stop of the day was at Bennetts Bluff Lookout, which is known as the most beautiful in the entire country and is just a short stroll to the lookout area.

The Twelve Mile Delta to Bob’s Cove Track was up next, where we took a leisurely walk to a stunning filming location over 12 Mile Canyon Footbridge. Our guide did a great job bringing each location to life, making it feel like I was almost stepping foot onto the LOTR movie set!

One of my favorite moments in the tour was visiting Glenorchy Wharf, where we visited one of the most photographed sheds in the country before strolling out over the Wharf to see all kinds of fish swimming around.

After, we were able to enter Mt. Aspiring National Park to explore the ancient forest and see various filming locations of not only LOTR, but Hobbit, Chronicles of Narnia, and much more!

3. Lord of the Rings and Glacier Helicopter Tour

• Duration:  1 hour and 10 minutes
• Departure: 35 Lucas Place, Frankton, Queenstown or Hotel pickup available
• Departure Time: Between 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Includes:  Landing and facility fees, 70 minutes of flight time, GST

If you’re really in a bind and don’t have much free time in your busy schedule for a longer LOTR tour, there’s no need to worry! I have you covered with this next tour, that will require less than 2 hours of your time!

The  Lord of the Rings and Glacier Helicopter Tour  is perhaps the most convenient of any of the tours of its kind, offering some of the most breathtaking views in the entire world!

I was surprised that with such a brief tour experience, they actually offered a complimentary hotel pickup so we didn’t have to make our way out to a meeting point on our own!

We headed out to Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters, where we listened to a safety briefing and our pilot answered any questions we had. Our pilot was very nice, clearly very experienced, and made sure all of us were having a great time.

Our pilot was literally the main aerial film pilot for both the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, so he knows better than anyone about the areas and behind-the-scenes stories about filming these epic movies!

As we soared through the air, he told us fascinating stories about the geology of the area relating back to the filming, before taking 2 different landings. The first was on Clarke Glacier in Mt. Aspiring Park, and the other was in Skippers Canyon.

One of the most iconic parts of the tour was flying over the famed mountain range that’s seen in the opening scene of ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers’, along with others.

Plus, landing on top of a glacier – who has the ability to do that?! If you have the opportunity, please don’t pass this up!

4. Wellington’s Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour including Lunch

• Duration:  8 hours
• Departure:  Hotel pickup and drop-off available
• Departure Time: 8:30 AM
• Includes:  LOTR themed lunch, local professional guide, visit LOTR movie locations, native forest walk, Weta workshop behind-the-scenes tour

Right in the middle of New Zealand’s rolling hills and rugged coastline sits the gateway to the enchanting world of Middle-earth! If you’ve ever wanted to step right into the pages of The Lord of the Rings, check out Wellington’s Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour including Lunch .

If you have the entire day available, this is one of the best full-day LOTR tours you could take!This cinematic adventure starts off with a convenient hotel pickup right from the lobby, with our expert guides there to share the lore of LOTR and the rich history of New Zealand.

From the iconic landscapes of Rivendell to the windswept shores of the Great River Anduin, each stop offers a glimpse into the incredible beauty that captivated both filmmakers and audiences, alike.

We set off on our little coach with our small group before arriving to Mt. Victoria and the Greenbelt for a 40-minute walk through the fabled Outer Shire, spotting various different filming locations.

Receiving an insider’s look into Weta Cave was also quite fun, learning about how they made The Lord of the Rings, along with various other films they’ve worked on through a documentary we watched.

I really enjoyed the ‘Window into Workshop’ exhibition and picked up a couple of souvenirs at the gift shop onsite. After all that, we took a break to kick up our feet and enjoy a massive lunch at the Scorch-O-Rama!

With plenty of opportunities for photos and storytelling, you simply can’t skip this tour whether you’re a fan of the franchise or simply a nature lover! I’d recommend this one for entire families, as the guides do a great job of keeping everyone entertained – even little ones.

The drive out there is nice and relaxing, balancing out rest with hiking perfectly – don’t take my word for it, try it yourself!

5. Half-Day Lord of the Rings 4WD Tour from Queenstown

• Departure Time: 8:15 AM or 1:30 PM
• Includes:  Transport by 4WD vehicle, gold panning, driver/guide

If you’re curious about going on a Lord of the Rings tour but don’t want to commit to an entire day, this next tour is for you.

The Half-Day Lord of the Rings 4WD Tour from Queenstown  is a great way to explore the rugged landscapes made famous by blockbuster films like ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit with professional guides who know all about it.

This off-road adventure in the wilderness of NZ is some of the most fun that I’ve ever had, so if you are an adrenaline junkie, don’t let this opportunity pass you by.

Just like all of the other tours, this one also includes a complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, so all transportation is taken care of for you.

The 4WD vehicle was super exciting, yet still had big windows for us to all take in the sweeping vistas of the mountain ranges, panoramic views, and much more. Also, I thought it was worth noting that our guide was an excellent driver who drove with precision and made us feel safe.

I loved driving up to Lake Wakatipu, where we got to take in the expansive vistas of the lake and Deer Park Heights, which you may recognize from the Battle of the Wargs scene and for use by the refugees of Rohan.

Kawarau Gorge was another impressive spot, where Argonath, or Pillars of the Kings filming took place and where we got to take plenty of photos and videos.

Arrow River was also pretty cool, with its historic gold mining road and Ford of Buinen, where we sipped on afternoon tea and got to try gold panning!

We couldn’t forget Skippers Canyon, where we got to appreciate the incredible panoramic views of the Wakatipu Basin while learning about how thousands of miners arrived here during the 1862 gold rush!

At one time, the settlement even had a post office, hall, hotel, school, stores, and more! This tour perfectly balances the films with history, geology, and local history, making for an exciting experience that anyone would have a good time with.

Tour Guides

The Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch is Editors Choice for the best LOTR tours in New Zealand

Robert Baker

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Lord of the Rings & Hobbit Themed Tours

Home of middle earth - customisable self drive & coach tours.

New Zealand's stunning landscapes captivated movie fans around the world as the unbilled star of the hugely successful The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. Over 150 real New Zealand locations were used, from the rolling green hills of Matamata in the North Island which we now know as Hobbiton to Queenstown's snowy jagged mountain peaks; the Remarkables, featured as The Dimrill Dale. Explore New Zealand on these great touring ideas. Visit Lord of the Rings attractions and film sites on these itineraries or talk to our team to get the perfect holiday designed for you. Tailor made packages can be created to suit your interests and budget.

Middle Earth Discovered

Duration: 8 days Auckland to Christchurch

• Hotel 4 star
• Independent tour (bus & coach)

Embark on a journey of Middle Earth and New Zealand. Visit official sites used in the filming of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies, whilst visiting some of New Zealand's most stunning attractions including glowworm caves, active geysers, dramatic mountains and deep fiords.

• Viewed 835 times in the last 7 days

price pp from

twin share/double

Land of the Rings

Duration: 9 days Auckland to Queenstown

A tour appealing to those Frodo and Gandalf fans, with visits to official sites used in the filming of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

• Viewed 670 times in the last 7 days

Waitomo, Rotorua and Hobbiton Weekender

Duration: 2 days Auckland to Auckland

• Hotel 3 star

Visit Waitomo Caves, Te Puia, Tamaki Maori Village and Hobbiton Movie Set on this 2 day fun-filled tour.

• Viewed 684 times in the last 7 days

Auckland to Christchurch 17 day Ultimate Explorer

Duration: 17 days Auckland to Christchurch

The 17 day Ultimate Explorer visits Bay of Islands, Tamaki Maori Village, Hobbiton Movie Set, explore glacier lakes, Milford Sound, Dart River Safari jet boat tour, TSS Earnslaw cruise and dinner, a boutique wine tour and the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train plus much more.

• Viewed 528 times in the last 7 days

5 day Waitomo, Rotorua and Hobbiton

Duration: 5 days Auckland to Auckland

Visit Waitomo Caves, Te Puia, Tamaki Maori Village, Hobbiton Movie Set and Wai-O-Tapu thermal area on this action packed 5 day itinerary.

• Viewed 394 times in the last 7 days

11 day New Zealand Southbound Explorer

Duration: 11 days Auckland to Christchurch

On the North Island, you’ll experience the unique Maori culture in Rotorua and the magic of Hobbiton. Then fly south for an exploration of the natural wonders of the South Island including Mt Cook National Park, Milford Sound, the West Coast Glaciers, and Queenstown.

• Viewed 541 times in the last 7 days

12 day New Zealand Highlights

Duration: 12 days Auckland to Christchurch

This 12 day tour allows you to experience some of the highlights of New Zealand in a short time.  Some superb inclusions ensure a varied and exciting tour.

• Viewed 836 times in the last 7 days

• Viewed 1024 times in the last 7 days

• Viewed 525 times in the last 7 days

Embark on a journey of Middle Earth and New Zealand. Visit official sites used in the filming of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies, whilst visiting some of New Zealand's most stunning attractions including active geysers, dramatic mountains and deep fiords.

• Viewed 607 times in the last 7 days

8 Day Upper North Island Adventure

Duration: 8 days Auckland to Auckland

This 8-day tour is great for people who wish to experience as much as they can in the upper North Island. Learn about New Zealand's history, cruise around the Bay of Islands, travel to Rotorua via Hobbiton village and experience New Zealand's geothermal capital before returning to Auckland via Waitomo Caves.

• Viewed 573 times in the last 7 days

Waitomo, Rotorua and Hobbiton 3 day tour

Duration: 3 days Auckland to Auckland

Calling all Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton fans! This is the perfect tour if you would like to indulge in New Zealand's culture as well as seeing the location of the famous films. Starting and finishing in Auckland this action packed 3 day tour will take you to Waitomo Caves, Te Puia, Tamaki Maori Village, Hobbiton Movie Set and Wai-O-Tapu thermal area.

• Viewed 875 times in the last 7 days

Nearly all our guests customise our tour ideas. That's what we do! Our expert team of New Zealand specialists can design a holiday itinerary to suit you perfectly. A tailor made package can be created for you in no time and doesn't cost you any more than one of our 'off the shelf' ideas. So get in touch with the team today to start your plans.

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Locally Family Owned & Operated

Trusted LOTR Experts Since 2005

Access to Exclusive Filming Locations

Epic movie locations.

Lord of the Rings Tours, Queenstown & Glenorchy

Journey with our expert guides deep into Middle Earth and explore unique Lord Of The Rings locations around Queenstown and Glenorchy.

Feel the LOTR trilogy come to life as you visit the jaw-dropping landscapes that inspired Peter Jackson’s film locations for The Lord Of The Rings movies & Hollywood blockbusters like X-men Origins, Wolverine & The Chronicles of Narnia.

You’ll be granted exclusive access to the awe inspiring scenery of Arcadia Station & Paradise, right in the heart of the Southern Lakes region.

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Lord of the Rings Scenic Tour

Journey deep into middle earth and explore lord of the rings locations from queenstown to glenorchy. on your lotr guided tour, you will discover breathtaking and iconic lotr scenery from isengard, amon hen, lothlorien forest, the misty mountains and ithilien.

Encounter stunning ancient beech forest, braided rivers and glacier carved valleys as you roam through UNESCO World Heritage Listed – Mt Aspiring National Park.

Explore the unique flora and fauna and get up close to birdlife and animals. Discover the staggering beauty of the Dart River Valley, Paradise and Arcadia Station.

Take the opportunity to dress up in Lord of the Rings costume in Lothlorien Forest. Come away with amazing photos and lasting memories from this unforgettable experience.

Tour Details

Morning or afternoon tea included.

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LORD OF THE RINGS TOUR INCLUSIONS

We are the only company with access to the actual filming locations on private land for; the hobbit, lord of the rings, x-men origins: wolverine and the chronicles of narnia: prince caspian. don’t miss out, book today .

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

As a local family we take pride in each and every tour.

Light morning/ afternoon tea inc.

This is morning or afternoon tea normally around 10.15am or 3.30pm.

SMALL GROUPS IN COMFORT

Small personalised groups per guide / vehicle – our vehicles are 4WD with forward seats

AWESOME  VALUE

One of the very best value tours you’ll find.Adult $189 Child $99 (5-14yrs)

OPTIONAL COSTUME DRESS UP

Pretend you are a LOTR star, dress up in capes and re-enact sword play in Lothlorien forest.

INTERPRETATION BOOKLET

We have a booklet with our full commentary in both English and Chinese

ACCOMMODATION PICK UP

We pick up at some central Queenstown accommodation locations.

DEPARTS QUEENSTOWN

Our tour departs Queenstown at 8.00am and 1.30pm

Intimate Tour Groups

Travel in small intimate groups with our local guides, who have a real passion and knowledge of the area.

Take in the diverse landscape of ancient beech forest, braided rivers and glacier carved valleys. Explore the unique flora and fauna and get up close to New Zealand’s unique birdlife.

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World Heritage Park

Experience some of the world’s most spectacular scenery in the Mt Aspiring World Heritage Park and along NZ’s most scenic highway; the Glenorchy Road.

You will come away with the most breathtaking scenic photos and magical memories. We are one of the few tour companies approved by the Department of Conservation to enter the World Heritage Park.

LET US SHOW YOU

Exclusive access to film locations in Arcadia Station

That’s right… Middle Earth is right on our doorstep and we have exclusive access to its heart. Join us in exploring filming locations on private land for; The Hobbit, Lord Of The Rings, X-Men Origins: Wolverine and The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.

Stories and secrets will be shared by our guides who have great insight into the filming and the local areas involved.

TAKE ME THERE!

Travellers’ Choice 2022

Pure Glenorchy have always received fantastic ratings on Tripadvisor, thanks to our enthusiastic customers and passionate tour guides.

This year we are delighted to have been awarded the Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Award. Our Lord Of The Rings Tour was voted #8 in the Top Experiences category for the whole of New Zealand! The perfect reason to experience it for yourself…

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Pure Glenorchy – Pure New Zealand

Pure Glenorchy is one of the few companies to have DOC Concession and to be also Qualmark Silver Endorsed, meaning we deliver a genuine, constantly improving sustainable experience.

We are committed to keeping our environment pristine. We feel privileged to operate in such an untouched environment and adhere to strict environmental guidelines.

Explore the unique flora and fauna and get up close to birdlife and animals. Discover the absolute beauty of the Dart River Valley, Paradise and The Mt Aspiring National Park.

From Our Guests...

Talking to the guides joel and kate about the area, watching the dress up and having sword fights was my favourite part and the views were awesome – brilliant tour would have given it 7 stars if i could – thanks for the great time..

R Waugh, Tripadvisor

“Fantastic tour! Our guide picked us up from our hotel and made us feel at home immediately, James is a very entertaining guy full of heaps of info, enjoyed every moment with him. The tour and scenery is breathtaking it makes you remember parts of the movie and you can picture the scenes right where you’re standing. Dressing up in the costumes was great fun. Thank you James for a wonderful tour and for being a great host!”

Miranda, Australia

“Well worth the time. Our guides were well versed in the geography of the Lord of the Rings and were able to put what we saw into context. The natural beauty seen on the trip was an added bonus. 5 stars!”

Michael, TripAdvisor

“Thank you for taking our little group of six on an adventure. Being Lord of the Ring’s enthusiasts it was wonderful being part of where a lot of the scenes took place. As soon as I get home I am watching it again just knowing I was there. Loved getting dressed as Gandalf. Thank you for helping me personally as it was a little difficult for me to get around.”

Mary, Sydney

“Booked last minute with my partner and we had a GREAT time! Very knowledgable on LOTR and New Zealand landscape, culture etc. I recommend taking this tour even if you are not a huge LOTR fan since it is a smaller group, but the guides can answer any questions you have, so be ready to nerd out if you want to 🙂 ”

mnovasel, TripAdvisor

“Queenstown based tours are more heavenly than one can imagine. On the way to Glenorchy we come across the million dollar scene of the mountains and the blue water lake. You can spend a whole day photographing in Glenorchy. As we go to explore the various spots where Lord of the Rings was shot you get to reach Paradise too, a truely remarkable spot aptly named so. Overall experience was excellent.”

Aapen, India

Lord of the Rings 14-Day New Zealand Tour

Take a once-in-a-lifetime journey to middle-earth, travelling from auckland to queenstown via many exciting lord of the rings filming locations, movie studios, and adventures. you will also meet those involved in the making of the movies, and get off the beaten track into the breath-taking landscapes and natural attractions new zealand has to offer..

Along the way, there are opportunities to helicopter over and land on mountains used in the films, kayak in stunning film locations, visit wineries, tramp, skydive or 4-wheel drive into amazing locations. All within a small fellowship of like-minded travellers, led by our passionate  Lord of the Rings guides.

Hobbit , Lord of the Rings

• Public tour

From € 3.880 per person

• Takapuna, Auckland
• Hobbiton Movie Set
• Hairy Feet Waitomo / Trollshaws Forest
• Tongariro National Park / Mordor
• Tawhai Falls / Gollum's Fishing Pool
• Mount Ruapehu / Secret Entrance to the Lonely Mountain
• Weta Workshop
• Wellington Town Belt / Get off the Road scene
• Pelorus River / Dwarfs Barrel Ride
• Jens Hansen, The Ringmaker
• Mount Sunday / Edoras
• Twizel / Pelennor Fields
• Lake Pukaki / Lake-town
• North Mavora Lake / Nen Hithoel (Breaking of the Fellowship)
• Bog Pine Paddock / Fangorn Forest
• Mavora / The Burnt Orc Mound
• Arrowtown / Gladden Fields
• Arrowtown / Ford of Bruinen
• Kawarau River / Pillars of the Kings
• Explore Bilbo's Shire!
• Climb the magnificent Edoras
• Visit the makers of the 'One Ring'
• Experience breathtaking Mordor
• Movie guest presentations
• Behind the scenes: Weta Workshop tour

Tour details

A NZ$ 500 per person deposit is required to confirm a booking. Deposits are non-refundable , but are transferable to another month should you need to alter your plans.

We strongly recommend you take out adequate travel insurance to cover personal accident, baggage, cancellation fees, delays or missed flights, sickness and medical expenses.

Meeting point

Auckland. You’ll get the exact meeting point on confirmation.

Tour departs

Click the “Book this tour” button to see the available tour dates.

Queenstown. You will need a domestic airfare from Queenstown to Auckland.

Live guide speaks

Max group size, tour operator.

Red Carpet Tours

Cancellation policy

45 days or more before start: full refund less NZ$ 500 per person (non-refundable deposit). 21 days or more before start: 75% refund . 11 days or more before start: 50% refund . After that time or no-show: no refund .

Accommodation Breakfast Entry fees Costumes & Props Professional live guide Transport and driver Free gift set

Optional activities International airfare

Film series

Full description, day 1: auckland.

The Lord of the Rings 14-Day New Zealand Tour begins in a central Auckland location in the evening, with a complimentary welcome dinner to get to know the other guests venturing to Middle-Earth with you. Visiting the tour during winter months will include a special movie guest presentation. The evening ends when you settle into your Auckland City hotel, with an early start beginning on Day 2.

Day 2: Auckland to Rotorua

Following a full cooked breakfast (provided from day 2 until day 14) guests will need to be ready for an 8:00 am departure, with transport taking the group to Hobbiton along the Rotorua route. You will see some fantastic scenery on the way to Hobbiton Movie Set . The stunning  Waikato  farming location provides unimaginable beauty, with fertile pastures, picturesque green countryside and a wealth of miniature village towns holding a heap of history behind them.

Once you arrive in  Hobbiton,  you will be able to explore the famous  Hobbit Village,  where the fantastic Middle-earth stories first came to life. Explore the  Hobbit Holes  which were dug into the sides of the hills in  The Shire , before paying a visit to Bag End , Bilbo Baggins’ home . You might also like to get an inside look at the  Green Dragon Inn  that  Frodo  and  Samwise  often visited with friends ,  and enjoy a cold beverage or two while you are there. Lunch is on us, which you can enjoy in the Marquee located next to the Green Dragon Inn.

The rest of the day is yours to explore Rotorua, so you might like to relax in the Polynesian spa or enjoy a Maori Cultural evening with dinner and a show (at an extra cost). Night 2 is in Rotorua accommodation.

Day 3: Rotorua to Trollshaw Forest

We depart for day 3 leaving Rotorua on a journey to the picturesque  Trollshaws which appeared in  The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey ,  located just west of Rivendell. Here you’ll witness some breathtaking scenery featuring a wealth of beech trees, and the filming location where trolls roamed to terrorise any passers-by. Heading towards Mt. Ruapehu and the  Mordor  filming location, enjoy a complimentary lunch before an overnight visit of  Emyn Muil  and  Mt Doom  where the stars from the movies stayed.

Day 4: Ohakune to Wellington

The morning of Day four sets off with a visit to the location of Gollum’s fishing pool , where Andy Serkis almost met his demise plunging over a waterfall. We also visit the  Secret Entrance to Erebor  before Smaug destroyed it in the movie. We then depart for Wellywood, located in Wellington City. An optional visit to dine at The Green Parrot Restaurant which is well-know as being one of Viggo’s favourites. You will spend the next three nights in Wellington accommodation.

Day 5: Wellywood Day

Day five commences experiencing the movie capital of New Zealand in Miramar . Visit the Windows into Workshop tour to Marvel at the spectacular weapon and armour displays from the movies, purchase a souvenir and watch behind the scenes footage detailing the Weta company’s history. Experience the Wellywood location as a guided tour shows you some of the special effects used in some of the biggest movies ever. Experience the Weta Cave before heading to the Roxy Theatre for lunch on the house. The latter part of day 5 consists of visiting the filming location of the Get of the Road scene featured in The LOTR, offering stunning views of the city.

Day 6: Presentation day with Daniel Reeve

Day six of the Lord of the Rings 14-Day New Zealand Tour won’t involve as much travelling,  as we enjoy an extensive and interactive presentation from Daniel Reeve , The LOTR and The Hobbit Calligrapher and Cartographer. For those visiting during the winter months, day two will also include a presentation from an additional special movie guest. Following the performances, you’ll have ample time to explore the attractions nearby. You might like to visit the  Te Papa Museum , watching a movie at the  Special Embassy Theatre  or the stunning scenery around Wellington.

Day 7: Wellington to Nelson

After finishing breakfast on day seven, we depart the Northern area of the island and make our way to the Southern Island for the next part of the adventure. We’ll set sail from Wellington on the Inter-Island Ferry to the Southern island which takes around 3½ hours. Lunch will be served (included with the tour), and we’ll then head for Nelson City as our next destination. While travelling to the city, you might like to stop off to see the filming location of the famous scene where the Elves moved in barrels along the river. As an optional extra you might also like to get a closer look at this location taking a kayak down the river. The day ends with an inclusive stay at an accommodation in Nelson.

Day 8: Nelson Day

Day eight is yours to explore at your leisure. We’d highly recommend the famous helicopter ride which showcases the LOTR sites located South of Rivendell  (at an additional cost). The next step of the tour begins with heading back into Nelson City to meet the creators of the famous  One Ring . While there you’ll meet Halfdan Hansen, Jens Hansen’s son to marvel at his breathtaking Hobbit and LOTR jewellery. Night eight is in Nelson accommodation.

Day 9: Nelson to Christchurch

Day nine will commence with an early start following breakfast to head South towards the Kaikoura Coast . While on the route you’ll stop for a second breakfast (or lunch) to witness the beautiful fur seals having fun. Day nine boasts some fantastic photo opportunities, and you’ll also get to enjoy an RCT coach quiz. Finally, we depart for our next stop at Christchurch, where we spend the night before a busy day ahead.

Day 10: Edoras

With an early morning departure, we’ll embark for the filming location of  Edoras , set upon a hill in a valley of the White Mountains. Making our way up to the top of the area is where we find the site of the Golden Hall, and here is where we’ll fly our Rohan Banner. Afterwards, we experience Tekapo and Pukaki, the breathtaking mountain fed-lakes before witnessing the highest mountain in New Zealand – Mt. Cook. The evening will include an inclusive dinner while enjoying a presentation from a Hobbit-inspired special guest,  before settling into the Twizel accommodation.

Day 11: Pelennor Fields

The Lord of the Rings 14-Day New Zealand Tour day eleven kicks off with a visit to the Pelennor Fields , the location that’s known for the powerful sound of 250 horses charging after  King Théoden made his battle speech. After experiencing this location, we move on to the Lake-town filming location before sitting down for lunch in Omarama. Following lunch, you might like to try your hand at archery before unwinding in your accommodation in Cromwell.

Day 12: Arrowtown, Queenstown

Venturing deeper into Middle-earth, we visit a variety of LOTR filming locations at Mavora Lakes. Purchase a picnic lunch to take along as we explore  The calling up of Shadowfax, The Silverlode bridge, The Orc funeral pyre, and Fangorn Forest. Visit  Nen Hithoel, The log which concealed Merry & Pippin before Frodo left the fellowship  and where  Sam and Frodo paddled away on the next stage of their journey. You’ll have a wealth of astonishing scenery to take in here before being transported to Queenstown in the afternoon. Accommodation will continue in Queenstown for the remaining nights.

Day 13: Queenstown

Our next destination is in Arrowtown, and along the way, we take a route which follows the direction of a gold mining road, and we continue up the Arrow River. One of the highlights of Arrowtown is the filming location of where the  One Ring  dropped among the  Gladden fields . You might like to try bungy jumping (at an extra cost) before heading to the Elements Restaurant for an farewell dinner.

Day 14: Optional Activities

Day fourteen is all about you. After enjoying breakfast, you might like to experience some optional Lord of the Rings activities. Ride the Dart river jet which heads past LOTR and Hobbit sites, or perhaps a helicopter flight over the  Ford of Bruinen . You could enjoy a hot air balloon drive, or keep your feet on the ground with a Routeburn Track guided walk. If retail therapy is more appealing, then Queenstown shopping is the perfect treat. Your tour guide will be able to discuss all of the options available, and help with a booking should you wish.

Departure day

Waking up to the final breakfast of the Lord of the Rings 14-Day New Zealand Tour will see your Middle-Earth  journey coming to an end. As you depart from Queenstown, you will require a domestic airfare to return to Auckland, followed by an international flight for your journey home from Auckland.

Locations (19)

1. takapuna, auckland, 2. hobbiton movie set.

3. Hairy Feet Waitomo / Trollshaws Forest

Major filming locations from The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey :

The Company arriving at a destroyed farmhouse The exit from the cave containing the troll hoard Gandalf bestowing the sword, “Sting” upon Bilbo Radagast arriving The Orcs and Wargs attacking

4. Tongariro National Park / Mordor

5. tawhai falls / gollum's fishing pool, 6. mount ruapehu / secret entrance to the lonely mountain, 7. weta workshop, 8. wellington town belt / get off the road scene, 9. pelorus river / dwarfs barrel ride, 10. jens hansen, the ringmaker, 11. mount sunday / edoras, 12. twizel / pelennor fields, 13. lake pukaki / lake-town, 14. north mavora lake / nen hithoel (breaking of the fellowship), 15. bog pine paddock / fangorn forest, 16. mavora / the burnt orc mound, 17. arrowtown / gladden fields, 18. arrowtown / ford of bruinen, 19. kawarau river / pillars of the kings, reviews (0).

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Wellington Rings Tours

-original movie locations, -nature experience, -expert fun guides, -great food, -comfortable coach.

the home of Middle Earth, since 2002

The Original tours

an epic journey through

Middle-eartH. Movie locations of the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Explore the stunning Wellington Region that inspired Film Maker Peter Jackson and his team to create the worlds of hobbits, elves & Orcs. Visit the WETA Workshops where it all began.

Movie Locations & the Weta Workshops

Departures: 8.30 or 9.30 daily

Duration: 4 hours

Pickup: Central Wellington iSITE

+Lunch Feast & more Spectacular Movie Locations

Start: 8.30 or 9.30 daily

Duration: 7.5 hours

How to book

Tours start daily at 8.30 or 9.30 am

Full & 1/2 day guests may be seated on the same coach

We recommend booking early for summer 2023.

What to bring

Suitable clothing: A windbreak or light raincoat may be your best companion. It is generally not cold but can be windy

Personal medicines/requirements

Reusable water bottle/if required

FREE WiFi: During lunch (Full Day only) you enjoy free WiFi to connect with your family and friends

All tour expenses included

"A wonderful day. Stunning coastline, film locations and beautiful rainforests and rivers with trout.

After the studio visits, we enjoyed a big Hobbit Lunch and went to discovered a swing bridge to beautiful NZ rainforest locations with rivers & native birds. Thanks! It was magical!"

Jan & Marina de V.

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wi th over 20 years of experience.

Expert guides and dedicated vehicles for our legacy Lord Of The Rings location tours. We welcome

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Step Into Middle Earth: Your Gateway to Lord of the Rings Tours in New Zealand

Ultimate middle-earth quest, new zealand lord of the rings tour, classic south island lord of the rings adventure, classic new zealand lord of the rings adventure, classic north island lord of the rings adventure, express lord of the rings – hiking & adventure tour.

Discover New Zealand your way with bespoke privately guided and self drive tours. Enjoy breathtaking scenery and wildlife, Lord of the Rings tours, winery tours, Māori cultural experiences, skiing/snowboarding, adventure tours and more!

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Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit Tour Packages

The best new zealand lord of the rings & the hobbit tour packages.

If you're looking for a Lord of the Rings or Hobbit tour package in New Zealand where somebody else takes care of all the bookings and planning, including a kayaking experience that fans of the Hobbit can’t miss .

New Zealand is the only option when it comes to Lord of the Rings vacations . However, once you’re here, you’re spoilt for choice with the range of ways to discover the people, places, and pioneers behind Sir Peter Jackson’s big-screen reinventions of Tolkien’s masterpieces. We’ve previously blogged about the best LOTR and The Hobbit filming locations and some sweet as self-drive LOTR/Hobbit tours around New Zealand . Now, though, we reckon it’s time to relax a bit. If you’re not keen to do it all on your own, here’s a few of the best NZ Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit package tours where you won’t have to worry about organising anything !

We’ve focused on the big, do-it-all tours, though of course there are smaller tours you can do within each of these regions (keep your eyes peeled for a post on that in future). These comprehensive New Zealand Lord of the Rings tour packages account for accommodation and transport at every step, and in some cases catering. They start from either Auckland or Wellington, New Zealand’s biggest city and capital, respectively. They finish in Auckland, Christchurch (NZ’s second biggest city and airport) or Queenstown, the South Island’s stunning adventure tourism playground and a major airport, so there are plenty of ways to get there and back again. All of the itineraries pack in plenty of Lord of the Rings sites, so don’t worry about that. We’ll just try point out a few subtle differences between them, in case you’re having trouble deciding which New Zealand tour package to choose.

Middle Earth New Zealand Tour Package, 13 Days

Auckland – Waitomo – Rotorua – Matamata/Hobbiton – Wellington – Havelock – Blenheim – Christchurch – Methven/Edoras – Mt. Cook National Park – Queenstown – Mount Aspiring National Park (Isengard, Lothlorien, Amon Hen) – Auckland.

If you want a touch of city tour thrown in with your Middle Earth off-road adventure , this is a choice as tour for you, because this Lord of the Rings vacation package offers a wicked time in Auckland. You stay right in the heart of the city near Britomart and the Viaduct, and the package includes an unforgettable evening dinner cruise across Waitemata Harbour on the Pride of Auckland yacht . After that, you hit the road for an awesome two-week trip the next morning. The Middle Earth New Zealand Tour Package is especially good for those who are fans of the Hobbit trilogy as much as (or more than) the Lord of the Rings . It’s a New Zealand-wide Hobbit tour package that takes in studio tours in Wellington, the Hobbit barrel run in Havelock, a visit to the Hobbiton film set, and a few non-Tolkien highlights including natural thermal valley hot pools!

Lord of the Rings Location Tour, 14 Days

Auckland – Hobbiton – Rotorua – Huka Falls/Lake Taupo – Tongariro National Park – Mt. Ruapehu/Mt. Doom – Wellington – Pelorus river – Nelson – Kaikoura – Christchurch – Mt. Cook – Twizel – Arrowtown – Queenstown

Worth mentioning straight off the bat: this tour lets you see adorable fur seal pups. Really though, the clue is in the title when it comes to figuring out what this tour is about. Chances are, if you have a location from Sir Peter Jackson’s films in mind, it’ll be on this tour. The volcanic landscape Sam and Frodo scramble across on the edges of Mordor and under fearsome Mt. Doom? Cheek. The tree stump where Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin ‘get off the road!’ to hide from a Black Rider? Check. The grassy hill where King Theoden stirs the Riders of Rohan and clangs their swords to begin the battle of Pelennor Fields? Check. The river on which Bilbo and the dwarves stage an epic barrel-bobbing escape with the help of Legolas and Tauriel? Check.

Tolkien’s New Zealand, 13 Days

Auckland – Waitomo – Rotorua – Matamata/Hobbiton – Christchurch – Edoras – Mt. Cook National Park – Mt. Cook Village – Queenstown – Milford Sound – Glenorchy (Isengard, Lothlorien) – Fox Glacier – Greymouth – Christchurch

A big plus for this one is its focus on the wonderful South Island (no bias here of course). While a lot of tours, justifiably, just hit the big spots – Christchurch to Queenstown, taking in Central Otago and a view of Mt. Cook along the way – Tolkien’s New Zealand tour lets you see the less accessible, by no means less stunning, parts of the South Island.

Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit Tour Package, 15 Days

Auckland – Hobbiton – Rotorua – Trollshaws Forest – Tongariro National Park/Mordor – Wellington – Nelson – Hanmer Springs – Christchurch – Edoras – Twizel – Pelennor Fields, Lake-town – Cromwell – Arrowtown – Mavora Lakes – Queenstown

Red Carpet Tours offer a good do-it-all tour that packs in a lot of what’s mentioned above (minus the West Coast focus of the Tolkien package). As the name suggests, they take good care of you along the way. However, it’s not a fancy, luxury tour. Far from it, it’s a solid choice for families with young kids traveling to New Zealand and solo backpackers wanting to latch onto a group holiday tour package.

Again, anybody wanting more of a New Zealand Hobbit tour package rather than a LOTR one will find a few nuggets in this one. First of all, Trollshaws Forest in the North Island, where Gandalf gives Bilbo his iconic sword, Sting. Then the tour pulls in at Pelorus river, filming location of the barrel escape scene mentioned above, where you can do the Hobbit Kayak Tour to go down the exact river yourself (though at a much slower pace; no experience required). Finally, you’ll recognise the quaint wooden structures and peaceful setting of Tasman Downs Station as Lake-town from the Hobbit movies.

If you’re short on time, or planning to begin your New Zealand LOTR/Hobbit tour from Wellington rather than Auckland, Red Carpet Tours offer that too. Just pick up their 10-day Lord of the Rings Hobbit South Island tour from Wellington, which includes a Cook Strait ferry crossing and the entire South Island portion of their full New Zealand tour package.

Keen for an adventure on New Zealand's most beautiful river? Here's a special gift from us! Use promo code Blog19-20 when reserving your place on our Hobbit Kayak Tour and get 10% off your booking to experience the world-famous filming location of The Hobbit for yourself in all its glory. See you on the river!

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Home » All Guided Tours » 07 Day Lord of the Rings Guided Tour

07 Day Lord of the Rings Guided Tour

Guided tours includes.

  Nights

  4 Star

  Tour Guide

Private Driver

  Private Driver

Luxury Vehicle

  Luxury Vehicle

 Private Escort / Tour Guide-Driver & Private Mercedes Touring Vehicle  4-Star Accommodation 7 Nights (option to upgrade), 8 Days Touring  Included North Island Tours: • Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour • Mt Doom Scenic Floatplane Flight • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour Included South Island Tours: • Queenstown, New Zealand Lord of the Rings Tour • Queenstown Jet Boat Tour + Isengard

Guided Tours Activities

Scenic Flight

  Scenic Flight

  Jet Boat

Glow Worm Caves

  Glow Worm Caves

Lord of the Rings

  Lord of the Rings

Hobbiton Movie Set

  Hobbiton Movie Set

Guided Tours Price

As our Guided Tour prices are split between travellers, pricing will vary depending on the number of travellers on the tour. Please make a tour enquiry to receive your personal quote.

*Please note USD pricing and conversions vary.

GET A QUOTE

If you’re short on time, this is the New Zealand Lord of the Rings Tour package you can’t miss. See the most iconic Lord of the Rings filming locations on both islands on this must do New Zealand guided holiday. Your private guide will meet you at the airport and take you on an insider’s tour of Middle-earth! Offering the best flexible New Zealand escorted tours with no date or itinerary restrictions.

Read on for the full details of the 7 Day Lord of the Rings Tour Package.

7 Day Lord of the Rings Guided Tour Package Itinerary (Updated 2023/24)

Day 1 auckland.

Your fantastic guided Lord of the Rings holiday begins in New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland.

Auckland is a multi-cultural urban oasis of food, music, arts and culture. World-class shopping and phenomenal dining is never too far from harbours, islands, native bush and black-sand beaches.

Explore Auckland with your guide. The Auckland Museum is well worth a visit with internationally significant Māori and Pacific collections to explore.

If you would like to get straight into nature; skipper an America’s Cup Yacht or experience Whale Watching . Or visit top attractions such as the Sky Tower and Mt Eden’s volcanic crater.

In the evening the fairy lights of Federal Street will lure you into some of the finest restaurants in Auckland or head down to The Viaduct, a food and drinks hub in central Auckland.

Stay 1 night in Auckland.

Day 2 Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour + Taupo

Travel time Auckland to Waitomo Caves – 2.5 hours

Venture off the beaten track as your guide takes you on a scenic drive to the Waitomo Caves. Witness the marvels of these vast caverns as you explore the Waitomo Glowworm Caves where you will be dazzled by a galaxy of glowworms overhead.

Travel time Waitomo Caves to Taupo – 2 hours 

Enjoy the scenic drive to Taupo, a small town set beside New Zealand’s largest lake. With the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park looming in the distance, and the lake itself formed from an ancient volcanic crater, you will get a close-up look at the immense forces that shaped New Zealand.

Taupo is rich in natural beauty with attractions such as the Huka Falls. Visit this stunning natural attraction with your guide.

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a real hidden gem. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements.

Stay 1 night in Taupo.

Day 3 Mount Doom Scenic Flight + Rotorua

In the morning, lift-off high above Lake Taupo to soar around the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park. Fly over Mt Doom as you explore the craters and colourful volcanic lakes on a scenic floatplane flight.

Travel time Taupo to Rotorua – 1 hour

Your geothermal experience will continue as you enjoy the short drive to Rotorua. Tour the exciting geothermal attractions with your guide, visiting sulphur springs, mud pools, geysers, and sinter terraces.

In the afternoon, you have the option to visit Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve to soak in a relaxing sulphur spa. Other options include visiting the Redwoods Treewalk , which features 23 suspension bridges through 115-year-old redwood trees.

Top recommendations for the evening include a Maori Culture Experience inclusive of a Hangi Dinner (traditional Maori Earth Oven Dinner). Or taking the Skyline Gondola with a delicious dinner atop the Skyline Complex.

Stay 1 night in Rotorua.

Day 4 Hobbiton Movie Set Tour + Auckland

Travel time Rotorua to Matamata – 1 hour

Experience the real Middle-earth™ at the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, where you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire™, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did. Your guide will escort you around the set, pointing out famous locations and explaining how the movie was made.

You will be fully guided around the 12 acre set; past Hobbit Holes™, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ beverage.

Travel time Matamata to Auckland – 2 h ours

Explore Auckland with your guide this evening. You may want to do a spot of shopping at the Britomart Shopping Precinct or discover Auckland’s diverse range of cuisine and check out the buzzing nightlife of the central city. Favourite spots include the Viaduct Harbour, the Britomart Precinct and Federal Street.

Day 5 Auckland > Queenstown

Today, take a domestic flight from Auckland to Queenstown. (Price of flight not included in holiday package, please enquire for indicative pricing.)

Queenstown sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu among dramatic alpine ranges. Let Queenstown awaken your inner-explorer. Whether you’re interested in exploring Lord of the Rings Film Locations, indulging in food and wine, or seeking adrenaline thrills – there are adventures to be found here of all tastes and tempos.

Tour Queenstown with your guide in the afternoon, with the option to visit a winery or two in the Gibbston Valley of Vines, or ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu.

Or choose from any adventure activity on offer in Queenstown; bungy jumping, skydiving, paragliding, quad biking, zip lining and more. If you’re looking for a slightly slower pace there’s plenty of recreational activities like the Kiwi Birdlife Park, or spa and wellness options to help you truly feel worlds away.

Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.

Day 6 Queenstown, New Zealand Lord of the Rings Tour

Explore the Lord of the Rings filming locations around Queenstown today on a Safari of the Scenes 4WD tour.

The Queenstown tour takes you to see The Remarkables, which were used as the Misty Mountains. Travelling part way up Queenstown hill you get a birds-eye view onto Deer Park Heights, which was used for the refugees of Rohan and the Battle of the Wargs scenes. Travelling from The Queenstown hill viewpoint head to the Kawarau Gorge where the filming took place for the Argonath, or Pillars of the Kings.

Leaving the Kawarau Gorge the trip heads to Arrowtown where the loss of The One Ring at Gladden Fields was shot. Near Arrowtown, you will experience a true off-road adventure. Follow a historic gold mining road up the Arrow River, you will cross the river many times to get to the Ford of Bruinen. Indulge in morning tea and try gold panning. From Arrowtown, you will travel to the entrance of Skippers Canyon where you will be offered spectacular panoramic views of Queenstown and into Skippers Canyon.

In the afternoon, you have the option to add on a helicopter flight to see remote filming locations tucked in spectacular mountain valleys and ridges throughout the region, or to enjoy a steamship cruise and high country farm dinner with the TSS Earnslaw.

Day 7 Jet Boat Queenstown + Isengard

Bring your fantastic holiday to a close today with an unforgettable wilderness jet boat safari.

Your guide will drive you to the stunning township of Glenorchy, nestled at the head of Lake Wakatipu, stopping for views along the way. The jet boat safari continues past Glenorchy up the Dart River, which passes into the Paradise Valley (easily recognisable as Isengard). Stop for a nature walk through the forest used as Lothlorien, and marvel at the snow-capped mountain peaks and stunning turquoise river.

Relax and explore Glenorchy with your guide. Enjoy a forest walk, visit more filming locations (including the Ithilien Camp, the location of the Battle of Amon Hen, and the setting for Beorn’s house from The Hobbit).

Day 8 Depart Queenstown

Your guide will deliver you to Queenstown Airport for your departing flight.

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• The Best NZ Lord of the Rings Tours

• New Zealand Self Drive Tours

These stunning Lord of the Rings sample itineraries are designed to show you what is possible. We have been crafting itineraries for like-minded travellers since 2001.

We are New Zealand locals so you can rest assured knowing that you will experience the incredible NZ scenery that made the LOTR trilogy and Hobbit movies so iconic.

You can visit Middle Earth's stunning locations like Hobbiton, Mount Doom, and the Misty Mountains, not to mention the option to visit Weta Workshop.

Read our Lord of the Rings Tour Reviews to see what our past guests have to say about their experience and our 24/7 in-country support.

Our sample self drive itineraries below take in the cream of the crop. No desire to drive? You have come to the right place! Our itineraries are 100% customisable so we can swap the rental vehicle to coaches or a private driver.

Want to dial up or tone down the LOTR inclusions? We are here for you! Our itineraries can be tailored to meet your exact needs. 

Enquire with us today  and get your dream LOTR itinerary planning underway!

LOTR (Hobbit) Filming Locations Tour

First Light Travel

It is little wonder that Peter Jackson selected New Zealand to bring Tolkien's Middle-earth to the big screen. Gentle streams dissect emerald green valleys as giant mountains stand sentinel and ancient glaciers tumble to the sea.

12 Day LOTR New Zealand Scenic Tour

Prepare to have your breath taken away by the spectacular scenery that formed the visual masterpiece for the Lord of the Rings trilogies.

New Zealand's Northbound Trilogy Adventure

If kayaking, hiking, canyoning, and caving sounds good, and you are keen on the LOTR & Hobbit Trilogies then the New Zealand's Northbound Trilogy Adventure could be just the ticket.

Stunning LOTR NZ Self Drive Itinerary

It took two years to film the LOTR trilogy, but many millions of years to build the sets.....This 8 Day LOTR New Zealand Self Drive Itinerary gets you up close and personal with the grand landscapes that inspired Director Peter Jackson to make the

Want Your Very Own Custom Itinerary?

Pricing terms.

The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price

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Escorted, independent and self drive tours to middle earth.

The Lord of the Rings films were filmed by Peter Jackson using the spectacular backdrop of New Zealand's mystical scenery. Our escorted, independent and private group Lord of the Rings tours; and self drive Lord of the Rings Tours allow you to visit the breathtaking locations that make up Middle Earth and the LOTR. You can follow in the footsteps of Frodo, Sam and Gollum (Smeagol) and visit the Shire, Misty Mountains and Mount Doom. Though all the original sets and buildings have disappeared; you can relive the stunning back drop of New Zealand that is Middle Earth. For those with less time to explore Middle Earth we also have a great range of Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton day tours .

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Tour Companies Are Already Offering LOTR Tours In New Zealand (In Anticipation Of The New Series)

After Hobbiton, it seemed like any tour in New Zealand regarding 'Lord of the Rings' was bound to be a hit - and we can add these to the list.

The world will soon be returning to Middle Earth and the first season of Amazon's Lord of the Rings TV series has already been shot in New Zealand. The budget for this series is eye-watering and even blows Game of Thrones out of the water. In New Zealand, there are already a number of Lord of the Rings tours operating around the country taking Tolkien fans to all their favorite locations.

The movie set Hobbiton is also in New Zealand and is an easy drive from the main city of Auckland  (it is easy to visit without a tour). Lord of the Rings tours can be anything from half-day tours to massive 21-day quests. Here are some examples of the many LOTRs tours offered in Aotearoa (the native Maori name for New Zealand).

Amazon's 'Lord Of The Rings'

The Amazon series is to be set in the Second Age of Middle-earth before the events of the Lord of the Rings novel and films. It is expected to start streaming on Amazon Prime Video in 2022.

• $250 Million: The Amount Amazon Paid For The Rights For Lord Of The Rings
• $1 Billion: The Minimum Amount Amazon Is Expected To Spend On The Series
• Eight Episodes: Number Of Episodes In The First Season
• Five Seasons: The number of Expected Seasons
• $560 Million:  (Very) Rough Figure Of What HBO Paid For 8 Seasons Of Game Of Thrones

While it seems that Amazon will be producing subsequent seasons in the United Kingdom, the first season has already been shot in New Zealand where the original LOFRs were filmed.

Related:  New Zealand Holiday Guide, The South Island: How To Plan The Perfect Vacation

Nomad Safaris

Nomad Safaris  offers a range of half-day and day tours around New Zealand's adventure capital of Queenstown. While LOFRs were filmed all across New Zealand, Queenstown in particular is a filming location hotspot.

Queenstown Lord of The Rings:  This quick tour rediscovered the magic of Tolkien's Middle-earth. They visit filming locations like Misty Mountains, the Pillars of the Kings (Agronath), and more. This is also the old gold rush area of New Zealand and there's gold-panning too.

• Cost: Adult: $245 ($170 USD); Child $99 ($69 USD)
• Duration: 4 Hours

Full-Day Lord of The Rings:  Travel for a little longer in Middle Earth discovering more mystical lands of the Lord of the Rings . This visits Glenorchy near Queenstown that has not only been the filming location for LOTRs but also The Hobbit, X-men Origins: Wolverine, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian , and others. Gold-panning is also included.

• Price: Adult NZD $490 ($326 USD) Child $215 ($150 USD)
• Duration: 9.5 Hours

Fun Fact: In Wolverine One Can See An Arrow On the Left Side Of the Road Telling The Traffic to Keep Left, But the Car Drives On The Right. This Is Because New Zealand Drives on The Left But it is Set In Canada

Related:  New Zealand Holiday Guide, The North Island: How To Plan The Perfect Vacation

New Zealand Guided Tours

For those wanting a guided tour of New Zealand for their whole time in the country, then New Zealand Guided Tours offer tours from 7 days to 21 days. These tours can be of one island or both islands (don't go to New Zealand without visiting the South Island though).

7-Day Lord of the Rings Guided Tour:  This is a tour package for those with only a week to spend in this magnificent country. One will see the most iconic filming locations in both islands and many more must-see attractions in Aotearoa not related to the movies.

• Includes: 4 Star Accommodation, 7 Nights, and 8 Days Of Touring
• North Island:  Waitomo Glowworm Caves Tour • Mt Doom Scenic Floatplane Flight • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
• South Island:  New Zealand Lord of the Rings Tour • Jet Boat Queenstown + Isengard
• Cost: 1 Traveler $15,999 ($11,110 USD), 10 Travelers $3,349 ($2,330 USD) (Sliding Scale Numbers Dependent)

21-Day Lord of the Rings Guided Tour:  Their ultimate 21 Day Lord of the Rings Guided Tour will really delve into the world of Middle Earth and justify coming this far for a vacation. This is a premium guide to much of the best New Zealand has to offer. Tours are flexible and customizable.

• Includes: 4 Star Accommodation, 21 Nights, and 22 Days Of Touring
• North Island:  Hole in the Rock Cruise • Glowworm Tour • Hobbiton Tour • • Mt Doom Scenic Floatplane Flight • Weta Workshop • New Zealand Lord of the Rings Tour • Interislander Ferry
• South Island:  “Edoras” Lord of the Rings Filming Locations Tour • Milford Sound Cruise • Taieri Gorge Railway • “Isengard” + Jet Boat Queenstown
• Cost: 1 Traveler $39,149 ($2,718 USD), 10 Travelers $9,549 ($6,600 USD) (Sliding Scale Numbers Dependent)

There are many other LOTRs tour companies to choose from like Red Carpet Tours and Lord of the Rings Tours  to name a couple.

While at the time of writing New Zealand remains closed to international travel, it is likely that the country will be opening back up soon - perhaps early on in 2022.

Next:  What You Need To Know About Backpacking Around New Zealand

The Lord of the Rings LOTR tm Tour Packages

Our The Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton tour package options ranges from 6 to 14 days long. These LOTR tours feature many of the key filming locations in North Island and South Island, made famous by the movie trilogy. Find out more and contact us to book this tour!

14 Day The Lord of the Rings Tour

This 14-day LOTR New Zealand adventure is our most popular tour. Take a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Middle-earth, travelling from Auckland to Queenstown via many exciting The Lord of the Rings filming locations, movie studios, and adventures.

12 Day Winter The Lord of the Rings Tour

This 12 day New Zealand Winter The Lord of the Rings Tour is not to be missed. Take a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Middle-earth, traveling from Auckland to Queenstown via LOTR filming locations, movie studios, and special movie guest...

September Hobbit Celebration Tour

Our special 12 day The Lord Of The Rings tour will take you on a Middle-earth adventure from Queenstown through to Auckland. This particular tour includes the special International Hobbit's Day celebration in Hobbiton that only happens once a...

10 Day The Lord of the Rings Tour

Our 10 day The Lord of the Rings Tours will take you from the capital Wellington to New Zealand’s adventure capital Queenstown.

6 Day The Lord Of The Rings Tour

Our 6 Day North Island LOTR tour whisks you away from Auckland on an adventure exploring Hobbiton, Trollshaws, Gollum's fishing pool, the secret entrance to Erebor and Wellington with Weta Workshop, Weta Cave and much more!

What people have said

I went solo and am a bit of an introvert, but Julie and the rest of the tour members made this an unforgettable experience and made me feel right at home. This was number one on my bucket list and it exceeded my expectations across the board. If you're contemplating booking this tour, just...

My second tour through Middle Earth (New Zealand) was just as wonderful as the first, the locations you are taken to are just amazing. Best suited for people with interest in the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films, you make so many friends throughout your journey that you become your own...

Just returned as part of the February 2023 Fellowship with Red Carpet Tours and it was one of the best trips of my life. I've been wanting to do this for years and was worried my expectations might be too high, but it was amazing and I wish it didn't have to end! Love the family...

This is the best and ONLY way for a LOtR/Hobbit fan to experience New Zealand. Julie and her team are fantastic, knowledgeable people who, you can tell, put so much time and effort into making sure your experience with them is an amazing one! You will not regret choosing them as your guides...

Stephanie B

With Julie James as our guide (Feb. 2018) on the 14 day tour... it was excellent! She always took every effort and opportunity to see to everyone's requests. The hotels we stayed in were wonderful. The meals were delicious. But the tour itself??? Awesome!!! We had big LOTR and the Hobbit...

Katherine C

I don’t have enough good things to say about this incredible experience. Our guide Julie is so knowledgeable and fun about everything LOTR AND New Zealand in general! My husband and I went for our belated honeymoon and I would do it all again in a heartbeat. You’re fed like Hobbits...

Taylor & Nick L

From first contact with the James family, and the Lord of the Rings-Red Carpet Tours, you are in the best of hands. You expect so much on the tour but you receive so much more. I came back from my first tour believing I'd never have a better, truly satisfying experience, and they could...

Red Carpet Tours is a fabulous company - been with them 3 times. I agree with others posted here that it is the BEST way to see New Zealand, especially if you are a "Lord of the Rings" and "Hobbit" fan - and even if you're not! From all the Magnificent New Zealand...

There is a reason that this company is the premier in its field. I’ve been home for almost a week now and I’m still struggling to comprehend how incredible my experience with Red Carpet Tours was. This was hands down one of the best things I ever have, and likely ever will do in my...

Just concluded my third trip with Red Carpet Tours. 5 stars for the 3rd time running! Excellent planning and attention to detail by the James Family and fabulous guiding by Julie. Once again, a very lovely, friendly ‘Fellowship’ of travellers with a common interest. You might expect...

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23 Best Lord of the Rings Locations in New Zealand

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, where was the lord of the rings filmed in new zealand.

As soon as you start to leave the cities in New Zealand it is completely obvious that this is Middle-earth. Any of the rolling green hills could be The Shire. Then you are in for some spectacular Lord of the Rings scenery as you approach the grand mountains and forests in the South Island.

Arguably, it was the success of The Lord of the Rings movies that showcased New Zealand’s sheer beauty to the world. Now you can visit these locations on a road trip around New Zealand. We have only listed the Lord of the Rings locations that you can get to via hiking track, gravel road or sealed road, otherwise, you would need a helicopter to get to some of the more remote places.

Die-hard fans might want to consider a Lord of the Rings tour to see some secret filming locations, which often includes costumes to re-enact scenes. Get your geek on!

Oh, as when it comes to where was Lord of the Rings filmed, the answer is: between October 1999 and December 2000. For more on where they filmed Lord of the Rings, see below.

1. Mt Ngauruhoe

Also known as Mt Doom! Like Frodo and Sam, you can climb ever closer to the fiery depths of Mordor by walking the Tongariro Crossing. This gives you the best views of Mt Ngauruhoe. If you are feeling extra fit, you can hike up Mt Doom itself!

For more information, check out our full Guide to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and The Famous Lord of the Rings Filming Locations in Ruapehu .

2. Hobbiton

When asking where was Lord of the Rings filmed the first thing that usually comes up is Hobbiton and guess what?! Hobbiton is a real place! You can potter around the village in The Shire, have a drink in the Green Dragon, dance under the Party Tree, and visit Bag End. Any true Lord of the Rings fan cannot come to New Zealand without visiting this iconic movie set. Book your tickets to Hobbiton on Viator or Tripadvisor .

Location: Matamata, Waikato , North Island

3. Kawarau Gorge

See the same gorge, otherwise known as the Anduin River, that the Fellowship of the Ring paddled down to be greeted by the two giant statues on either side on the river. Unfortunately, the statues were added in post-production Nevertheless, Kawarau Gorge is pretty spectacular. Check out Lord of the Rings Locations in Queenstown for more information.

Location: Walks along Kawarau Gorge can be started from the Kawarau Bungy Jump Bridge, Queenstown, South Island.

4. Mt Sunday

This stunning location in Canterbury is the backdrop for Edoras, the capital of Rohan. You can easily picture where the Edoras set was on top of Mt Sunday. Either drive there or take a Lord of the Rings Tour from Christchurch. Find out more about the tour on Viator and Tripadvisor .

Location: Access is via Hakatere Potts Road, Ashburton Lakes, Canterbury, South Island

5. Putangirua Pinnacles

There is no mistaking that these eroded pillars make up the Dimholt Road that Legolas, Aragorn and Gimli took when they first encountered the Army of the Undead. Do the hike there and/or stay the night in the campsite; see, there’s another reason to travel New Zealand in a rental campervan !

Location: Aorangi Ranges, Wairarapa District, Wellington, North Island. Check out their exact location in Wairarapa – Guide for Backpackers .

6. Skippers Canyon

If you want him, come and claim him. Yes, Arwen washed away the pursuing ringwraiths right here in Skippers Canyon. Jump on the Skippers Canyon Jet to see this Lord of the Rings location. Find out more about Skipper Canyon Jet on Viator and Tripadvisor . Additionally, check out our guide to the Lord of the Rings Locations in Queenstown .

Location: Skippers Canyon is about 28km (17 miles) north of Queenstown, South Island. From Arthurs Point, take Skippers Road for almost 1 hour. Beware, Skippers Road is pretty gnarly, to say the least.

7. Deer Park Heights

Deer Park Heights is the filming location for many scenes in Rohan. One example is the journey from Edoras to Helm’s Deep, where you can spot The Remarkables in the background. Sadly, the park has been closed to visitors since 2009, but you can still take a walk up there.

Location: Access is via the Kelvin Heights Peninsula on Peninsula Road then turn off just before Balmoral Drive. Queenstown, Otago, South Island.

Welcome to Gondor! With The Lord of the Rings Twizel Tour, you can re-enact the Battle of Pelennor Fields. Stab a ring wraith in the face like Eowyn and shout: “I am no man!” See the exact Pelennor Fields location with One Ring Tours. One plus of the tour is that the fantastic guide is absolutely happy to answer any question even if she hears: “Where was The Lord of the Rings filmed?” about five times per tour. No joke. Find out more about One Ring Tours on Viator and Tripadvisor .

Location: Twizel, Canterbury, South Island.

9. Kepler Mire

There are dead faces in the water! Kepler Mire near Te Anau is the location for the Dead Marshes that Gollum leads Frodo and Sam through.

Location: The Kepler Mire is seen from Mount York Road, just off State Highway 95, a 10-minute drive from Te Anau, Fiordland National Park, South Island.

10. Snowdon Forest

Snowdon Forest in Fiordland National Park is the location of Fangorn Forest. This is where Gandalf whistles for his majestic horse, Aragorn tracks the hobbits’ trail into the forest, and it is the home of the ents.

Location: At Bog Pine Paddock, Snowdon Forest. From Te Anau, take State Highway 94 then Kakapo Road then Takaroa Road. Fiordland National Park, South Island.

11. Mt Victoria

In The Fellowship of the Ring, the Hobbits hide from the ringwraiths on the walking track of Mt Victoria. Highlights are when Merry breaks his carrot and Frodo shouts: Get off the road! Find the exact location with this Lord of the Rings Wellington tour, available on Viator and Tripadvisor .

Location: Central Wellington, North Island. Find out how to get to Mt Victoria in our Wellington – Guide for Backpackers and Guide to The Lord of the Rings in Wellington .

12. Weta Cave & Workshop

Ok, so this isn’t exactly a filming location, but it is the studio where the props, costume, make-up and special effects were created for The Lord of the Rings. See Guide to The Lord of the Rings in Wellington for more information and book your Weta Workshop tour on Viator or Tripadvisor .

Location: Miramar, Central Wellington, North Island. Take Bus 2 to Miramar and simply ask the driver to tell you when to get off at the Weta Cave. Don’t worry, this happens often. Otherwise, it is located on the corner of Weka Street and Camperdown Road.

13. Waiau River

Another Anduin River shot. This location on the Waiau River was used in the opening aerial shots in The Fellowship of the Ring. You can either drive to this location or see it on the Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks .

Location: About 13km (8 miles) out of Te Anau. The Waiau River can be accessed by State Highway 95. About 11km (7 miles) south of Te Anau, turn onto Rainbow Reach Road. Southland, South Island.

14. Mavora Lakes

Follow Merry and Pippin’s trail where they got loose from the orcs on the edge of Fangorn Forest, just like Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli did in The Two Towers! See more filming locations nearby in The Guide to The Lord of the Rings in Te Anau .

Location: From Te Anau, travel about 30km (19 miles) on State Highway 94, turn off onto Mavora Lakes Road for about 18km (11 miles) to Mavora Lakes Park . Southland, South Island.

15. Mararoa River

Another Lord of the Rings location in the Mavora Lakes area, the Mararoa River was used in the scene where The Fellowship leaves Lothlorien. The filming location is at the swingbridge at the southern end of South Mavora Lake .

Location: Access is via Mavora Lakes Road about 65km (40 miles) away from Te Anau. Take State Highway 94 south for 30km (19 miles) then turn on Mavora Lakes Road for about 35km (22 miles) until you reach South Mavora Lake. Southland, South Island.

16. North Mavora Lake

The last location in the Mavora Lakes Park includes these two filming locations on the shores of North Mavora Lake. The shore is unmistakably the place with The Fellowship end their Anduin River journey. Nearby in the forest is also the area where Merry and Pippin hide from the Uruk-hai. Because all that forest looks the same, here is the specific GPS coordinates for that forest location: 45 16.024’S 168 10.500’E.

Location: Access is via Mavora Lakes Road about 71km (44 miles) away from Te Anau. Take State Highway 94 south for 30km (19 miles) then turn on Mavora Lakes Road all the way to the end of the road. Southland, South Island.

17. Twelve Mile Delta

This campsite located on the banks of Lake Wakatipu is the location where Frodo, Sam and Gollum watch the battle between Faramir’s rangers and the Oliphaunts, as well as the scene where Sam and Gollum talk about: “PO-TA-TOES: boil ’em, mash ’em, stick ’em in a stew!” For more information, see Lord of the Rings Locations in Queenstown .

Location: From Queenstown, take the Queenstown-Glenorchy Road for 10km (6 miles) to the Twelve Mile Delta Campsite . The location is on the Bob’s Cove Track . Otago, South Island.

18. Paradise

Not too far from Glenorchy is a place called Paradise. This happened to be the location of Isengard seen when Gandalf approaches Saruman’s tower. Check out this location either on a self-drive trip or with Nomad Safaris in Queenstown. Find out more about tours with Nomad Safaris on Viator and Tripadvisor .

Location: Access is via the Glenorchy-Paradise Road at the GPS coordinates: 4440’25.0″S 16820’27.4″E. This is a gravel road. Otago, South Island.

19. Mt Gunn

One of the stunning locations where the beacons were lit between Gondor and Rohan. This is definitely a standout moment in the films for New Zealand scenery. You can either get a view from Mt Gunn by hiking or taking a scenic flight.

Location: Get views of Mt Gunn from the Franz Josef Glacier Valley access track . Turn off State Highway 6, about 500 metres (549 yards) south of Franz Josef Village onto the Franz Josef Glacier access road until you reach the car park. Then follow the glacier access track. West Coast, South Island.

20. Tukino Ski Field

On the small club ski field on the slopes of Mt Ruapehu, you can find the location where Frodo, Sam and Gollum look at the Gates of Mordor.

Location: Access is via Tukino Skifield Road off State Highway 1 about 22km (14 miles) from Waiorou. Tukino is well-signposted but be aware this is a gravel road. Mt Ruapehu, Manawatu-Wanganui, North Island.

21. Whakapapa Ski Field

Another ski field on Mt Ruapehu, Whakapapa was the location of a few Mordor scenes including the opening scene in The Fellowship of the Ring where the Isildur cuts Sauron’s finger off. It is also the location where Frodo and Sam catch Gollum and where Gollum leads the Hobbits to Emyn Muil.

Location: For locations, check out The Famous Lord of the Rings Filming Locations in Ruapehu .

22. Mangawhero River

Just before the magnificent Mangawhero Falls is the location where Gollum catches a fish. Delve a little further along the river and you’ll find a spot where Frodo and Sam passed a ruined column in a clearing.

Location: Signposted off Ohakune Mountain Road, Mt Ruapehu. Manawatu-Wanganui, North Island. Check out the full guide in The Famous Lord of the Rings Filming Locations in Ruapehu .

23. Tawhai Falls

And while you are in the Ruapehu area, check out Tawhai Falls . The waterfall and pool below were partly used when Gollum is catching a fish while Faramir and his rangers aim their arrows at him. Tawhai Falls is now commonly known as Gollum’s Pool.

Location: The short walking track to Tawhai Falls starts 4km (2.5 miles) from Whakapapa Village along State Highway 48. Manawatu-Wanganui, North Island.

More About The Lord of the Rings in New Zealand

• Make sure to add The Hobbit filming locations to your itinerary.
• You can check out our The Lord of the Rings location guide here .
• Finally, check out The Hobbit Location Guide

Plus, check out alternative experiences in the  101 Things to Do in New Zealand: The Ultimate List .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2024])
• Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Hobbit or LOTR Themed Touring Itineraries

These tour itineraries include a Lord of the Rings or Hobbit-themed activity or locations. If you are looking for a New Zealand tour with a Middle Earth flavour, we can also create LOTR itineraries to suit just you. Find the perfect tour for you or contact us to create it!

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Even with hundreds of New Zealand coach touring ideas we know that sometimes you need something special. That's why the team at NZCT are experts at designing New Zealand holidays to suit everyone. We can combine our Guided Coach Tours with a tailor-made independent tour in another part of New Zealand and then design a self drive holiday to finish off your itinerary. Whatever you can think of we can create so you get the New Zealand touring experience you deserve.

Our sister company, New Zealand Self drive Tours , specialises in just that - Self Drive Holidays across New Zealand. With over 200 great itinerary ideas to help inspire you there is something for everyone. Our team of NZ Specialists tailor-make each itinerary to suit you. With hundreds of accommodation options, activity ideas, a great rental car range and our expertise to pull it altogether you are guaranteed a great NZ Self Drive holiday.

New Zealand Fine Touring is the parent company of New Zealand Coach Tours. Started in 2004 New Zealand Fine Touring grew from a small home business to New Zealand's leading touring holiday planner. We operate many different channels such as New Zealand Coach Tours, New Zealand Self Drive Tours, Fine Tours New Zealand, Discover New Zealand, Thrifty Tours, Ski New Zealand, NZ Road Trip, Pure Journeys and our travel agent only business nzsidekick. Each channel specialises in a particulur style of touring holiday but we can also use our experience across all these channels to create a bespoke itinerary to suit anyone from anywhere. Check out New Zealand Fine Touring here .

8 Places in New Zealand to Experience the LOTR Magic

May 17, 2024.

Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-looking-at-snow-covered-mountain-2407783/

If you’re backpacking in New Zealand this year and you also happen to be a fan of the Lord of The Rings franchise, it would be an absolute shame to miss out on some of the famous filming locations.

Granted, you may love the books but feel indifferent about the movies. You can still, however, get lost in the magic Tolkienesque world of hobbits and orcs, at least for an afternoon.

Get a low cost ticket to New Zealand and immerse yourself in one of the richest fantasy worlds ever conceived.

Hobbiton and Bag End

Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/brown-and-orange-house-with-outdoor-plants-2259917/

The location that most likely tops your Lord of the Rings wishlist is Hobbiton. The Waikato town of Matamata is still home to a large part of the Shire, and you can visit it and experience the magic.

The set was first built for the LOTR trilogy and later resurrected for the Hobbit movies. It is now a permanent attraction and a great place to visit if you’re in New Zealand. Even non-fans flock to see it.

There is a guided tour available that will drive you all around the sheep farm. You’ll get to see the hobbit hole doors, including those of Bag End, the home of the Bagginses (to be read in Gollum’s voice). You can also walk around the interior of a hobbit home if you fancy.

Journey’s end will find you in the Green Dragon, where you can sample their exclusive Southfarthing range. Be careful not to overdo it, as you know what might happen if you do.

Get Off the Road!

Image source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/arbron/8323947766

Victoria Park in Wellington is home to the famous scene where Frodo tells the others to get off the road and they hide from the Nine, before they realize what exactly they’re carrying and what it will cost them.

You can take a couple of photos here and recreate the tension, but note that the tree under whose roots the hobbits hide does not actually exist. You can add them in yourself, though, if you truly want a memento of this famous scene. Creepy crawlies not included.

Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/people-walking-on-green-grass-field-during-daytime--MwgGXXU4ts

The Weathertop scene is probably one of the most famous ones from Fellowship of the Ring. It was filmed on location in Port Waikato, but the actual ruins that make for the backdrop of the action are not there in real life.

It’s a two-hour drive to get there from Auckland or from Hobbiton. But if you want to enjoy a bit of a hike in the vicinity, it’s a good place to visit, even if it’s a bit out of the way. Pretend to be stabbed by the Witch-king of Angmar to your heart’s content.

Image source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/yortw/5140121315

Rivendell was filmed in Kaitoke Regional Park, and I have to warn you: it looks nothing like the movies. There are no waterfalls, no valleys, no castles, and especially no elves. Not that we know of, at least.

However, there are numerous info boards that show scenes from the movies, and you can stand on the very spot where the Council of Elrond took place. And pretend to try to destroy the One Ring. Or imagine Aragorn in all his handsomeness. Unless you prefer Legolas.

The Forbidden Pool

Image source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ks_marks/32627655923/

The Tawhai Falls in Tongariro National Park were chosen as the location for the Forbidden Pool, where Gollum was captured by Faramir in the Two Towers .

It’s a short hike to climb up to the pool, and you’ll enjoy some breathtaking scenery on your way from Whakapapa Village. Be careful, though, as the paths do get slippery. You’ll have no trouble recognizing the pools, even without the archers above.

Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/mt-sunday-18098027/

If you would like to see Edoras, home of the people of Rohan, you’ll have to use a lot of imagination. It was filled on Mount Sunday in the Ashburton district.

Nothing remains of the set itself (which was actually built and not merely CGI’d in – it took nine months to complete), but the location is stunning. You can easily imagine Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas riding up the hill with Gandalf to free king Theoden from the clutches of Saruman.

The Battle of Pelennor Fields

Image source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Queen_Elizabeth_Park,_New_Zealand.jpg

Arguably the second most famous battle in the LOTR trilogy (if you are as massive a fan of Two Towers as I am), the Battle of Pelennor Fields was filmed in Queen Elizabeth Park near Paraparaumu.

You won’t recognize much from the movie, but you can reenact a bit of the battle, especially if someone in your party is willing to play the Nazgul. The location is great for hiking and spending time in the great outdoors, so getting there is definitely worth the effort.

Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/a-view-of-the-top-of-a-mountain-with-clouds-in-the-sky-oiAGdV60-eg

You will, of course, also want to see Mt. Doom in all its glory. It can be found in the Tongariro National Park , and it’s quite the sight.

The circular cone of Mount Ngauruhoe stood in for the actual Mt. Doom, and the entire area served as Mordor. It’s quite wild and desolate, and it’s just as stunning in person as on the screen. You will feel Sauron’s eye on you at all times.

While you are in the national park, you’ll also want to visit the Tukino Ski Field, where the Black Gate of Mordor stood. The plains below are also recognizable as the setting for the storming of the Black Gate.

The Whakapapa Ski Area is where Gollum led Sam and Frodo up the Secret Stairs into the lair of Shelob. You won’t actually see Minas Morgul, unfortunately, but you can practically hear the Nazgul’s cry.

Wrapping Up

Remember what Bilbo said:

It’s a dangerous business, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to.

Enjoy your visit to Middle Earth, and store as many memories of it as you can. They’ll keep you warm on your trek back to reality.

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Sewer lines often experience clogging due to debris and grime buildups. It takes effort and time to remove tree roots, gunk, and debris from your sewer lines. Store-bought chemical cleaners may not be effective in cleaning your sewer lines. That is why most plumbers apply hydro jet drain cleaning techniques to provide the best solution. […]

  Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-looking-at-snow-covered-mountain-2407783/ If you’re backpacking in New Zealand this year and you also happen to be a fan of the Lord of The Rings franchise, it would be an absolute shame to miss out on some of the famous filming locations. Granted, you may love the books but feel indifferent about the movies. […]

Restoring and preserving historical buildings are highly complex issues. Honoring the past is an essential part of preserving these buildings, but embracing the future is equally as important to keep these structures standing. Though challenging, my experience as an architect with the historic restoration and adaptive reuse of three office buildings at Nissequogue River State […]

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‘The Lord of the Rings’ will return with two new movies. First: ‘The Hunt for Gollum’

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Ready to head back to Middle-earth?

Two new films set in the fantastical realms of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” book series are in development, New Line and Warner Bros. announced Thursday. Director Peter Jackson and screenwriters Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens, who oversaw the blockbuster “Lord of the Rings” screen trilogy in the early 2000s, will reunite to produce the pair of upcoming movies.

“Lord of the Rings” alum Andy Serkis will star in and direct the first new film, tentatively titled “The Hunt for Gollum.” In the original movie series, Serkis lent his voice and performed the motion capture for the big-eyed and scantily-clad titular creature. Walsh and Boyens will pen the screenplay with writers Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.

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Serkis shared the news on Instagram , sharing a photo of himself posing with his “Lord of the Rings” character. “We is baaaaak, Precious!,” he captioned the photo. The “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” star said in a press release that he is excited to reunite with Jackson, Walsh and Boyens, whom he called “incomparable guardians of Middle Earth.”

“It’s just all too delicious,” he added, after teasing the franchise’s return to its New Zealand sets .

In a joint statement, Jackson, Walsh and Boyens reciprocated the sentiment, noting “it is an honour and a privilege to travel back to Middle-earth with our good friend and collaborator” Serkis.

Warner Bros. Pictures and New Line did not reveal more information about the second film.

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The original “Lord of the Rings” trilogy in the early aughts was more than a box-office behemoth , it was also an awards-circuit marvel. The franchise received 30 Academy Award nominations across its three films and took home 17 Oscars. At the 76th Academy Awards 20 years ago, “The Return of the King” won best picture. Jackson earned his first directing Oscar for the film.

Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group co-chairs Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy praised the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy’s lasting impact and voiced continued devotion to bringing Tolkien’s words to the screen with Serkis’ “The Hunt for Gollum.”

“We continue an important commitment to excellence that is a true hallmark of how we all want to venture ahead and further contribute to the ‘Lord of the Rings’ cinematic history,” De Luca and Abdy said in a statement.

Warner Bros. Discovery Chief Executive David Zaslav reportedly announced in an earnings call on Thursday that “The Hunt for Gollum” is slated to be released in 2026.

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Warner Bros. to Release New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ in 2026, Peter Jackson to Produce and Andy Serkis to Direct

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Warner Bros. will release the first of its new batch of live-action “ The Lord of the Rings ” films in 2026, which will focus on Andy Serkis’ Gollum.

Original “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy filmmaker Peter Jackson and his partners Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens are producing the movie and “will be involved every step of the way,” Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav said during an earnings call Thursday.

The project is currently in the early stages of script development from writers Walsh and Boyens, along with Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou, and will “explore storylines yet to be told,” Zaslav said.

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Warner Bros. first announced in February 2023 that then-newly installed studio leaders Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy had brokered a deal to make “multiple” films based on the beloved J.R.R. Tolkien books. The projects will be developed through WB label New Line Cinema. Freemode, a division of Embracer Group, made the adaptive rights deal for books including “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” under a venture named Middle-earth Enterprises.

A separate, animated Middle-earth movie, “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim,” is due on Dec. 13 via Warner Bros. and director Kenji Kamiyama. That movie is set 200 years before the events of “The Hobbit.”

Jackson, Walsh and Boyens added: “It is an honour and a privilege to travel back to Middle-earth with our good friend and collaborator, Andy Serkis, who has unfinished business with that Stinker — Gollum! As life long fans of Professor Tolkien’s vast mythology, we are proud to be working with Mike De Luca, Pam Abdy and the entire team at Warner Bros. on another epic adventure!”

“Yesssss, Precious,” Serkis said. “The time has come once more to venture into the unknown with my dear friends, the extraordinary and incomparable guardians of Middle Earth Peter, Fran and Philippa. With Mike and Pam, and the Warner Bros team on the quest as well, alongside WETA and our filmmaking family in New Zealand, it’s just all too delicious…”   

The original “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, helmed by Jackson, grossed nearly $3 billion worldwide; Jackson’s follow-up trilogy based on Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” matched those grosses.

Jackson’s first “LOTR” trilogy starred Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Liv Tyler, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Astin and Cate Blanchett. That trio of films was nominated for 30 Academy Awards and took home 17 trophies, including best picture for 2003’s “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.”

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• 6 Offbeat Towns to Visit in New Zealand

New Zealand is a popular tourist destination. From January 2023 until November, the country had 2.9 million visitors. While places such as Brisbane are popular tourist destinations, there are other less popular places to experience the hidden beauty of New Zealand. The country's towns, offer fewer crowds along with the stunning scenery of the country. In the small town Coromandel, experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean by walking the Coromandel Coastal Walkway. To see wildlife in New Zealand, visit Motueka and take a trek to Abel Tasman National Park. New Zealand's small towns also have a rich culture. In Oamaru visit the Victorian Precinct to explore the old-worldly charm of the town. Whatever you are looking for, these six offbeat towns in New Zealand are a great travel destination.

Coromandel is a small town on the Coromandel Harbour, known for its stunning scenery and mining history. The town's name comes from the British boat HMS Coromandel, which arrived in 1820. The British came to Coromandel to collect kauri logs to make spars. In 1860, the first gold strike happened in this town, making the population boom. Learn more about the town's gold mining history on the town's Heritage Walking Trail. On the trail discover colonial architecture reminiscent of this era. To look at photographs and artifacts from the gold mining era, pay a visit to the School of Mines and Historical Museum.

Those looking for a hike or bike route to enjoy the scenery should venture to the Coromandel Coastal Walkway. The walkway takes hikers to a remote part of the Northern Coromandel. The hike offers spectacular sea and island views over the Pacific Ocean and Hauraki Gulf. There is even a chance to admire volcanoes and 1000-year-old pohutukawa trees. For a special view of the town, consider riding on the Driving Creek Railway tour. The tour takes riders through tunnels within a regenerating native forest on The Coromandel Peninsula.

Another beautiful, offbeat town to visit is Glenorchy. Full of hiking trails and a bustling town center, Glenorchy is a great town for active individuals looking for new adventures to tackle. Just outside Glenorchy, is one of New Zealand's top hikes, the Routeburn Track. The 20-mile hike travels through the Southern Alps, finishing on the road between Te Anau and Milford Sound. For those looking for a shorter hike, the Glenorchy Boardwalk is a great option. The 3-mile trail follows a completely flat boardwalk to the Glenorchy Lagoon.

A well-kept secret about Glenorchy is that there are a lot of Lord of the Rings film locations in the town. Some popular spots from the film you can find in town are Misty Mountains, Isengard, Forest of Fangorn, and Ithilien Camp. Exploring Glenorchy wouldn't be complete without a trip to Paradise. The town has a version of Paradise, an 8-mile stretch of gravel road. Here, you will enjoy paradise on Earth with spectacular views.

One of New Zealand's hidden gems is the town of Kawhia. The quiet coastal town is on the west coast in the Waikato region of the North Island. Few New Zealanders know about the town and only around 600 people live there. Despite Kawhia's quietness, it is still a great place to visit. Kawhia’s Ocean Beach is unique. The best time to visit is when the tide is at low tide. This is because if you dig yourself a hole in the sand, hot spring water bubbles to the surface. In other words, you get a personal hot spring. Kawhia Harbour is also a great place to explore.

Those who like to fish will enjoy casting a line in the ocean. There is an abundance of fish close to the harbor and further out in the ocean. Some of the common fish caught include snapper, kahawai, terakihi, gurnard, and kingfish. Considering the beautiful natural scenery of the area, it is no wonder Kawhia has been a historically significant area throughout history. The area has been an important place for Indigenous groups, particularly the local Tainui people. To learn more about the history of the area, visit the museum in the waterfront offices of the former Kawhia County Council.

Another town with beautiful beaches is Motueka. The lesser-known beach town is on the South Island of New Zealand. Motueka is only a 35-minute drive from the nearby city of Nelson. The town has everything people go to Nelson for, such as a rich culture and beautiful scenery. Pioneers originally settled in the area in 1842. The Motueka District Museum recounts the town's early history in depth and is a great introduction to the town.

Many people go to the area to explore Abel Tasman National Park, which is one of the most stunning parks in the country. Abel Tashman is full of hiking and biking trails that show off the remote beauty of New Zealand wilderness. One of the most famous hikes in the park is the Abel Tasman Coast Track. The 37-mile hike takes multiple days to complete and goes through the entire length of the park. While at the park, don't forget to visit the famous landmark, Split Apple Rock. The landmark is a giant boulder, split in half like an apple, as the name suggests.

A relaxing attraction in Motueka is the saltwater baths on the Otueka foreshore. The formation of the baths dates back to the 1920s. Locals attempted to swim in the water; however, the presence of sharks made swimming unsafe. As a result, locals enclosed the foreshore, and today, the area is concrete. The enclosed swimming area makes this a safe, relaxing place to swim where you don't even have to worry about the tide.

Oamaru is the largest town in the Waitaki District on the South Island and is well known for its rich culture. The town is home to the Victorian Precinct, a section of the town that takes you back in time to the Victorian era . Here there is everything from bookbinders to old-worldly charming cafes. There is even a portion of the Victorian Precinct that is a mock-up of Oamaru’s early settlement. This section is Whitestone City and is a place of historical fun, where you can try your hand at Victorian-era games. The town's love of the Victorian era ventures into the world of steampunk. There is a steampunk-themed park at the Oamaru harbor and the town is home to Steampunk HQ. This is a neat steampunk themes art museum set in an 1880's Grain Elevator building. Other art galleries in Oamaru include the Grainstore Gallery.

People aren't the only ones who enjoy this town. The world's smallest penguins, little blue penguins, call the town home. You can visit the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony to watch groups of penguins return from the sea.

While the town of Whataroa is small, with only 300 residents, there is still plenty to do for outdoor enthusiasts. Whataroa is a natural paradise with pristine lakes, rivers, and forests. Enjoy views of the forest and pakihi swamp on the Waitangitaona Wetland Walk. The walk takes you through the kahikatea forest on a raised boardwalk where you can see rushes, ferns, moss, and manuka. There are also stunning views of the Alps. One of the most spectacular natural sites in Whataroa is seeing the white heron in the swamp Kahikatea and White Pine rainforest. The Waitangiroto Nature Reserve provides guided tours of the white heron nesting sites, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see these beautiful birds up close.

The Whataroa River runs past the town and is a stunning site to enjoy. The white water rafting river has stunning gorges and canyons. More adventurous spirits should try helicopter rafting on the river to enjoy the breathtaking views.

New Zealand is a small but beautiful country. These six offbeat towns aren't the most popular tourist destinations, but they are remarkable places to visit. Since they aren't overcrowded with tourists you will get a better chance to enjoy the scenery. In these towns, you will also have unique experiences, such as seeing white herons at Waitangiroto Nature Reserve or enjoying a personal hot spring at Kawhia’s Ocean Beach. These are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities not found in too many places. To make lasting memories with friends, family, or whoever you travel with, consider visiting these New Zealand towns.

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Peter jackson working on new ‘lord of the rings’ films for warner bros., targeting 2026 debut.

The first film, which will center on the character of Gollum, has Andy Serkis set to star and direct.

By Alex Weprin

Alex Weprin

Media & Business Writer

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Warner Bros. has made it official: It will be returning to Middle-earth.

On Warner Bros. Discovery’s first-quarter earnings conference call on Thursday, CEO David Zaslav said that the company is “now in the early stages of script development” for new Lord of the Rings movies, which he says they “anticipate releasing in 2026” and will “explore storylines yet to be told.”

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Zaslav says that director Peter Jackson and his longtime writing partners Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens “will be involved every step of the way.” Boyens and Walsh will write the screenplay. The deal covers two films in the franchise.

“It is an honor and a privilege to travel back to Middle-earth with our good friend and collaborator, Andy Serkis, who has unfinished business with that stinker — Gollum!,” Jackson, Boyens and Walsh said in a statement. “As life long fans of Professor Tolkien’s vast mythology, we are proud to be working with [WBD film chiefs] Mike De Luca, Pam Abdy and the entire team at Warner Bros. on another epic adventure!”

“Yesssss, Precious. The time has come once more to venture into the unknown with my dear friends, the extraordinary and incomparable guardians of Middle-earth Peter, Fran and Philippa,” added Serkis. “With Mike and Pam, and the Warner Bros team on the quest as well, alongside WETA and our film making family in New Zealand, it’s just all too delicious… .” 

“ Lord of the Rings is one of the most successful and revered franchises in history and presents a significant opportunity for our theatrical business,” Zaslav said.

Warners first said that it was developing new LOTR movies a little over a year ago, cutting a deal with rights holders Embracer Group AB to develop new films based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s book series.

As The Hollywood Reporter noted at the time , Amazon is also developing its own larger TV universe for the franchise, potentially leading to the two competitive visions. Jackson and his co-writers were said to be frustrated that many people thought they were involved in the Amazon shows, when they were not.

The news that Jackson, Boyens and Walsh will be involved in the new film franchise is sure to calm any concerns from loyal fans.

The original film trilogy, which won a slew of Oscars, will be returning to theaters this summer, remastered and extended.

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