The Ultimate Middle Earth Tour

Perched on the edge of a large natural harbour, New Zealand’s ‘City of Sails’ offers the best of both worlds. Sandy beaches, native bush and lush rainforests give way to a vibrant urban culture. Spend time in the Viaduct Harbour, try your hand at sailing an America’s Cup Yacht or take the ferry to nearby Waiheke Island for a gourmet food and wine experience. Venture to the top of Auckland’s highest volcano, Mt Eden, for soaring views of the Hauraki Gulf or hop on the short ferry to Rangitoto Island and hike to the top of the volcanic island. Take in nature at the expansive Auckland Botanic Gardens, sprawled across 156 acres of native forest, pack a picnic, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy the birdsong. Head up to the Sky Tower, standing over 300m tall, and have a meal in the 360-degree revolving restaurant. Scale the outermost perimeter of the Harbour Bridge or test your stomach with a bungy jump, then end your day on Ponsonby Road sampling upmarket culinary delights.

On collection of your rental car, you will be required to sign a rental agreement and provide a credit card for a security bond authorisation. Remember, the bond is only authorised, not charged, at this stage. While your rental rate may include coverage for mechanical breakdowns (please verify your specific car inclusions), you may also have the option to purchase roadside assistance for non-mechanical issues. All drivers must present a physical credit card, valid driving license and passport to be added to the agreement, with potential additional charges for extra drivers. Debit cards may be used on select vehicles. If you are presenting an international drivers license, this must be accompanied by the original domestic license. Drivers under 21 are not permitted, and those aged 21-24 may face a surcharge, both payable directly to the rental company. For detailed information, please refer to your rental car inclusions. See this important information if you are travelling between the North and South Islands on the ferry

Travel towards the coast today, stopping first in the charming town of Cambridge. With its English country village ambience, Cambridge boasts delightful cafes, antique stores, and a picturesque village green. As the heart of New Zealand’s equine industry, the town also features an impressive bronze horse sculpture honouring its rich history. Along the way you’ll pass through Otorohanga known for its "Kiwiana" energy, from here it’s a short drive to the iconic limestone hills of Waitomo, home to its world-famous cave complex and breathtaking underground wonders.

In the heart of New Zealand, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire with a guided tour of Hobbiton, as featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. Hobbiton is located just outside of Matamata in the heart of the lush Waikato farming region. Here you can visit such iconic Hobbit locations as Hobbit Holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Mill and the Party Tree with a guide sharing behind-the-scenes tales and insight into the making of the films. Spend time wandering through Bagshot Row before being led inside a Hobbit Hole to view the detailed interior, designed to provide an authentic glimpse into the dwelling of a Hobbit.

Head southbound on State Highway one through the lush farmland and dairy pastures of the Waikato region. The Bombay Hills mark the outer boundary of the greater Auckland area and its here you turn inland towards Matamata. This is the real Middle Earth, and you’ll see many locations used in the filming of The Lord of The Rings and The Hobbit, as well as visiting the actual set of Hobbiton.

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

Travel south into the heart of the Central Volcanic Plateau, Tongariro National Park. Leaving the limestone hills of Waitomo, follow the road through lush King Country pastures, named after the Maori King Tawhiao who lived here in exile during the mid 1800's. Continue on to arrive in this World Heritage Park, home to three active volcanoes - Tongariro, Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe - as well as many walking tracks, adventure activities and the renowned Tongariro Crossing.

For the exclusive guided trips you’ll be provided with a really personal, informative and friendly day you will never forget. This trip is tailored so that group sizes are small, your guides are well informed and are able to provide you with an amazing experience. Your guide will also 'work behind the scenes' constantly assessing the weather and track conditions, timing for your Ketetahi personalised transport pick-up at the end of your hike, and other little details that will maximise your enjoyment. They can also tailor the trip to accommodate different fitness levels and know a few tricks about avoiding weather exposed or crowded areas. It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information see here.

Leaving Waimarino, you will drive past the military town of Waiouru which hosts the Army Museum, an incredible collection of New Zealand’s military history and a memorial to its servicemen. Heading south you pass through the rural towns of Taihape, Mangaweka and Bulls before arriving on the Kapiti Coast. The coastal seaside towns of Paraparaumu, Paekakariki and Plimmerton are worth a short detour before arriving in the capital city of Wellington. Plan to take most of the day for this drive. Wellington City is New Zealand’s capital. It sits on a wonderful deep natural harbour and is surrounded by bush-clad hills. The city centre itself is quite compact (only around 1 square kilometre) and so exploring on foot is relatively easy. From your city centre accommodation you can easily stroll the cafes and restaurants around Courtenay Place and if you arrive early enough New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa, is also close by.

Wētā Workshop has been making cool stuff for film and TV since 1987. The crew has brought to life beloved characters and epic special effects for iconic blockbusters like The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.​​​ Step into Wētā Workshop Experiences and explore a world of creativity, physical effects and movie magic on a guided tour through our creative home base. You’ll learn about the making of props, creatures and costumes created for your favourite films. Get hands-on with unique pieces from many departments, catch the artists at work and discover how Weta have grown into the award-winning workshop you see today.

Prepare for an unforgettable LOTR adventure. Leaving Wellington, you will first head for the hills, admiring views from Mt Victoria before visiting Hobbit’s Hideaway in the 'Outer Shire'. Next, immerse yourself at the Weta Cave in Miramar. Tour the museum, shop, and capture photos with iconic movie props. Experience the fascinating 'Weta Workshop Experience', going behind-the-scenes to see props and weaponry, with artists describing their creations. After a magical cinematic journey, you will return to Wellington.

The 92 km journey between Wellington and Picton takes around 3 hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. Leaving Wellington Harbour the ferry passes many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head on top of which is New Zealand’s oldest lighthouse (1859). Red Rocks is home to a seal colony and Oterangi Bay is the site which recorded the country’s highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph). From the Cook Strait spectacular views of the Kaikōura Ranges on the South Island can be enjoyed and dolphins and many sea birds are often seen. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds and this region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays offer remarkable photographic opportunities. The final leg of the cruise travels through Queen Charlotte Sound before coming to an end in the picturesque town of Picton.

The Marlborough Sounds, located at the north-eastern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, is a captivating region of sunken river valleys. Spanning 4,000 km² between Tasman and Cloudy Bays, this diverse landscape of bush-clad mountains and clear waters is a haven for marine life and seabirds, including dolphins, seals, penguins, fantails, bellbirds, and wood pigeons. Sparsely populated, many of its secluded houses and resorts are accessible only by boat, making it an ideal escape. The main sounds, Queen Charlotte, Pelorus, Kenepuru, and Tory Channel, carve out a spectacular coastline and separate Arapawa Island from the mainland. Indulge your senses with the region’s culinary delights, from fresh Greenshell mussels harvested directly from the Sounds and perfectly paired with world-famous Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, to an array of local delicacies. Whether you seek exhilarating water sports, tranquil walks, or simply the chance to unwind amidst spectacular scenery, the Marlborough Sounds promise an unforgettable and deeply captivating experience.

Marlborough has become world famous for two iconic areas, the Marlborough wine region and the Marlborough Sounds. Enjoy the perfect combo tour through both areas on the Marlborough Icons Tour. Start your morning with a guided tour of two premier wineries, hearing the stories behind the labels and tasting award-winning varietals. Afterward, head to the water for a relaxing seafood cruise through the Queen Charlotte Sound. Indulge in a fresh BBQ lunch on board paired with local seafood, including King salmon and Greenshell mussels, as you glide past lush coastal scenery and hidden bays.

Crossing the dry hills of the Marlborough ranges you head towards one of the most spectacular coastlines of the South Island, the Kaikoura Coast. The road hugs the shore for around 50 kilometres and offers many chances to view the native wildlife such as seabirds and New Zealand fur seals. To the east, you see the turquoise waters of the South Pacific Ocean and to the west the towering Kaikoura Ranges. Go through Kaikoura Township a bustling place with many cafes and shops but the main reason for visiting here is the wildlife. Depending on the season you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales. Continue along the coast before heading inland through North Canterbury’s major wine region, the Waipara Valley. You are also introduced to the South Island’s most numerous inhabitants, the sheep. Choose to take a 40 minute detour to Hanmer Springs for a relaxing dip in the thermal pools before arriving in Christchurch, your destination for the night.

Step into the world of Middle-earth on the Lord of the Rings Edoras Tour and visit the stunning filming location of Edoras at Mt Potts High Country Station. Explore the remote and breathtaking Mt Sunday, transformed into the capital city of Rohan for the iconic trilogy. Take in the unspoiled beauty of this incredible area, surrounded by crystal-clear lakes, vibrant blue rivers, and crisp mountain air. A must-do experience for any Lord of the Rings fan! Please note: Visiting these special locations involves a 5.5 hour driving journey, which is balanced by numerous scenic stops and breaks for morning tea and lunch. The hike to the summit of Mt Sunday/Edoras itself is approximately a 20 minute ascent (and descent) that requires a reasonable level of fitness.

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

Leaving the alpine region of Aoraki Mt Cook, you’ll travel through the lakeside town of Twizel, then a little further to Omarama the gliding capital of New Zealand. Continue on over the Lindis Pass, one of New Zealand’s highest roads with a summit of 971 metres. Arrive in the quaint village of Tarras, then continue on a short way to the historic Bendigo Reserve, one of Otago’s original gold mining settlements.Follow the road to Cromwell, and keep going through the sheer cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge towards Gibbston, one of New Zealand’s premier wine growing regions. See the historic Kawarau Bridge where you can bungy jump or relax and watch others take the plunge. Approaching Queenstown, the Remarkables mountain range comes into view as you arrive into the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Journey deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park, where myth, heritage, and fantasy come to life. As one of Queenstown’s most exhilarating activities, the Wilderness Jet adventures on a spectacular journey deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mount Aspiring National Park. It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

On this Lord of the Rings Glacier Explorers flight, you’ll fly through the land where many parts of the Lord of the Rings trilogy were filmed along with the chance to fly with our most experienced pilot, Alfie Speight, who was the principal filming pilot for the series. Fly along the Shotover River to the scene where Arwen turns to face the Nazgul at the Ford of Bruinen. Fly over the mountain range from the opening scene of The Two Towers on the way to landing on a glacier alongside the Misty Mountains and get a sense of what it might be like to cross The Redhorn Pass. Head across to Glenorchy via the Dart Valley and Mount Earnslaw to see the natural features you may better recognize as Isengard, Amon Hen, and Lothlorien. Experience a second landing amongst one of these scenes to truly feel immersed in Middle-earth.