Journey Into Middle-Earth: Explore the Epic Lord Of The Rings Filming Locations of New Zealand

Hobbiton

A cherished destination for Lord of the Rings fans. Enjoy a guided tour through the actual film set of the Shire, and I strongly recommend booking a ticket that includes a meal. Hobbits are known for their feasts.

Mount Ngauruhoe

Lord of the Rings fans will recognize this UNESCO world heritage site by another name—Mount Doom. A visit to Tongariro National Park is a great stop for any hiker, as the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand’s ten “Great Walks.”

Waitomo Caves

While not a Lord of the Rings filming location, fantasy fans will not want to miss the wonder of Waitomo Caves, where they can see mesmerizing glow worms. Also, it is very near Hobbiton.

Wellington’s Mount Victoria Park

Yes, they filmed the scenes where the hobbits are being chased by the Black Riders in a public park in downtown Wellington. It’s not uncommon to see Lord of the Rings fans recreating some of the more iconic shots, as locals pass by on their afternoon walk.

Wētā Cave

The actual studio where much of Wētā Workshops work is done. Watch people making swords and molding prosthetics as your tour guide shows you some of Wētā’s most iconic creations—including the Dark Lord Sauron himself. You can even take workshops and classes!

Putangirua Pinnacles Park

This is the eerie location where Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli walked to the Paths of the Dead. The Pinnacles themselves are an astounding natural phenomenon just outside of Wellington.

Rivendell & the Anduin River at Kaitoke Regional Park

The set of Rivendell was taken down immediately after filming, but it’s impossible not to feel like an elf wandering through these woods. A gorgeous arch and guided signs point visiting humans—and elves—alike through the location. Just beside Rivendell is also one of the several rivers filmed to portray the mighty Anduin.

Mount Sunday

This breathtaking park is recognizable to any Lord of the Rings fan as Rohan. The production built the entire city of Edoras atop Mount Sunday for filming, and although the set doesn’t remain, it doesn’t take much imagination as you hike to the top to picture yourself surrounded by horse lords.

Day trips

Northern Explorer Train from Auckland to Wellington: A magical way to travel from Auckland to Wellington. See the North Island from the comfort of a train, complete with a dining car and gift shop. A great way to see Mount Doom from a safer distance.

• Biskit - Cafe in Auckland. Good food on a cute, quiet shopping street.

• Harbor Eats in Commercial Bay - A food hall with amazing options. Favorite: Tart, a delicious vegan bakery.

• The Green Dragon at Hobbiton - Feast like a hobbit! To eat at the Green Dragon, you'll need to book a tour of Hobbiton that specifically includes a meal.

• Chocolate Fish - Cafe in Wellington. Right on the water. Proximity to Weta Workshop makes it a favorite for cast and crew.

• Hanging Ditch - Cool cocktail bar in Wellington where all the liquor hangs from the ceiling.

• Squirrel - Coffee shop in Wellington with delicious pastries and coffee.

• Mt Vic Chippery - Fish and chips shop in Wellington.

• Cookie Time - Cookie shop in Queenstown, home of the New Zealand brand of cookies, Cookie Time. Vegan-friendly.

• Madam Woo - Queenstown southeast Asian food, with great vibes and delicious dishes.