15 Day The New Zealand Fellowship LOTR Tour 

Over the next 15 days, you’ll walk the paths of hobbits, elves, dwarves, and kings. You’ll stand where the Fellowship stood, gaze out over the lands they protected, and feel the same awe that inspired the films and the stories behind them…..

Upon arrival you will be picked up for your private transfer from Auckland International Airport to your accommodation with time to get a feel for Auckland.

Dive straight into Middle-earth magic with an optional visit to Wētā Unleashed in Auckland where you can go behind the scenes and discover the movie-making magic and creative forces that brought The Lord of the Rings to life.

AUCKLAND / TĀMAKI MAKAURAU – an exciting, sporting and cultural city, sprawled on a narrow isthmus, between two harbours. The Waitemata and Manukau Harbours, are a main feature of the city, along with numerous volcanic cones such as Mount Eden and Rangitoto Island. The city’s many beaches, marinas and parks, make it ideal for outdoor pursuits such as yachting, rugby, cricket or a day at the beach. The Auckland metropolitan area is New Zealand’s biggest city, and the population mix of European, Māori, and Pacific Islander, make Auckland the largest Polynesian city in the World.

Start your journey by picking up your Compact SUV Budget Rental Car. This journey offers a perfect transition from New Zealand’s largest urban centre to a world of rolling green hills and lush countryside. Leaving Auckland behind, the route heads south and travels through the heart of the Waikato region, one of the country’s most fertile farming areas. As you drive, the landscape opens up to picturesque pastures and serene farmlands. The destination, Matamata, is a small rural town that has become world-famous as the location of the Hobbiton Movie Set. This trip is an essential part of any Lord of the Rings fan’s itinerary, but it also provides a beautiful and relaxing look at New Zealand’s pastoral heartland.

On your way to Rotorua, you’ll take a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set and take a Hobbiton Movie Set Tour. Time to step into Middle-earth with this enchanting guided tour. You’ll journey through the picturesque sheep farm to the movie set, where you’ll see the Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and the Party Tree. Your guide will share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and movie magic secrets, culminating in a complimentary beverage at the world-famous Green Dragon Inn.

ROTORUA – located on a volcanic plateau, and formerly a spa town, Rotorua is most famous for its geothermal activity. Rotorua is the main place in New Zealand where aspects of Māori traditions can be seen, from wood carvings, and meeting houses, to a Hangi Dinner and Māori dances. Native and introduced tree species abound locally and combined with several picturesque lakes, Rotorua is a fascinating mix of culture and nature.

Your trip begins in Rotorua, then heads south across the volcanic plateau, past Lake Taupō and Tūrangi, before reaching the dramatic landscapes of Tongariro National Park. Follow the Desert Road, which offers spectacular views of Mount Ruapehu before you arrive in Ohakune, a small town at the foot of the mountain.

OHAKUNE – is the town at the southern gateway to the Tongariro National Park World Heritage Site and Mount Ruapehu’s ski fields. It is known as the aprés ski capital of the North Island’s Mount Ruapehu, the Carrot Capital of New Zealand. It’s a great location and aptly lends itself to the phrase “where adventures begin”. Skiers and boarders flock to Ohakune to take in what the largest ski area in New Zealand has to offer – Whakapapa and Turoa, then enjoy Ohakune’s varied entertainment, restaurants and cafes. In summer Ohakune is a fantastic base for visitors wanting to experience the many outdoor activities whether it is canoeing on the Whanganui River or taking in some of the many mountain treks on Mount Ruapehu and in the national parks. A fast growing activity here is mountain biking around the Ruapehu area.

Walk in the footsteps of Frodo and Sam on this half-day Tongariro adventure to Soda Springs, beneath the shadow of Mt. Doom (Mt. Ngauruhoe), through volcanic landscapes straight out of Middle-earth. Set out with Adrift Guided Outdoor Adventures on a Half Day Volcanic Explorer. This half day trip is a perfect option if walkers are unable to spend the whole day walking the Tongariro Crossing. The standard route starts on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing track walking amongst the volcanoes up to the Soda Springs waterfall. Mt. Ngauruhoe’s cold water springs create a small oasis of lush yellow mountain buttercups and white foxgloves, and the pure Soda Springs allows walkers to refill water bottles with Tongariro spring water, whilst having morning tea. Walkers will learn about recent and past volcanic eruptions, geology, flora and fauna discovery and settlement of New Zealand. At Soda Springs walkers are given the option to return to the start or, if conditions and logistics allow, upgrading to the full day walk to complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing and to see the other key highlights. If the Tongariro Alpine Crossing walk is not suitable on the day, there is a menu of smaller walks which can be enjoyed.

With an afternoon free in Ohakune, we suggest taking a short walk or bike ride along the historic Old Coach Road, winding through native bush and across towering viaducts that feel straight out of Middle-earth. For Lord of the Rings fans, a visit to nearby Mangawhero Falls—filming location for Gollum’s pool—is a must, or head up Mt. Ruapehu’s Tūroa side for panoramic views over Tongariro National Park and the lands that stood in for Mordor.

Driving from Ohakune to Wellington, offers a mix of mountains, farmland, and coastline. You’ll pass through Raetihi and Whanganui – great for a quick riverside stop – then on through the pun-loving town of Bulls. The road winds past green fields and small towns like Levin before reaching the Kāpiti Coast. As you arrive in Paraparaumu, look out for Kāpiti Island on the horizon – mysterious and misty, like something out of Middle-earth. Your journey concludes as you arrive in Wellington, New Zealand’s capital.

WELLINGTON/TE WHANGANUI-A-TARA – the Capital city of New Zealand since 1865, is situated around Wellington harbour, its houses clinging precipitously to the steep hillsides. Wellington is renowned for its wind which is channelled through the Cook Strait, and causes the wind to blow most days. A clever blend of buildings, old and new, beautiful vistas of the city and harbour, and a cosmopolitan mix of culture and arts give Wellington its heart, and vibrant atmosphere.

We have a LOTR treat for you today on a Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour with Xplor Tours Wellington! This is a dream tour for fans of the “Lord of the Rings” films. Your guide will take you to the exact filming locations, where you’ll get to recreate scenes and take photos. You’ll also visit the Weta Workshop for a behind-the-scenes tour and have a delicious themed lunch. The tour is a complete and immersive experience of Middle-earth in Wellington.

Today it is time to venture to the South Island and head to Wellington Ferry Terminal for your onward journey to Picton. This trip begins with a beautiful ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton on the Interislander. This journey is often called one of the most beautiful ferry trips in the world. Your crossing starts in Wellington Harbour, and as you leave the city behind, you’ll be greeted by the dramatic cliffs of the Cook Strait. The true highlight is the last part of the journey as the ship glides through the tranquil, fjord-like channels of the Marlborough Sounds.

You will arrive in Picton, then continue by road through Havelock and along Tasman Bay. Your journey ends as you reach Nelson, a sunny city known for its arts, food, and beautiful beaches. Nelson and its surrounding areas offer a subtle but stunning Lord of the Rings connection, with nearby Mount Owen in Kahurangi National Park serving as the rugged Misty Mountains backdrop. The region’s wild forests and dramatic landscapes were used for background scenes of the Fellowship’s journey through untamed lands. While Nelson isn’t as packed with famous LOTR filming sites as other parts of New Zealand, its breathtaking scenery perfectly captures the spirit of Middle-earth’s natural beauty.

NELSON/WHAKATU – with its gardens and gorgeous sunsets, looks across Tasman Bay. Streets and Parks are named after Admiral Nelson and his exploits, as well as the names of the ships that brought the first pioneers over from England. Forestry, fruit and fishing are the main focus of Nelson’s port, while to the west, apple orchards, tobacco and hop plantations occupy the land.

Take a day of driving and relax onboard a Wilson’s Abel Tasman Ltd – Cruise/Walk – Open Day Pass This is a great way to explore Abel Tasman National Park at your own pace. You’ll enjoy a scenic boat cruise past Split Apple Rock and a fur seal colony before being dropped off at a beach of your choice. From there, you can embark on a walk of varying lengths through native forests and along golden beaches, with the shuttle picking you up at the end of your day.

This is a great journey from Nelson, that takes you west and then south down the wild West Coast. The route winds through native bush and along the rugged coast, offering some spectacular views. Stop enroute at Punakaiki, a small village famous for its unique rock formations and the blowholes that erupt with a loud roar.

Leaving the wild Pancake Rocks of Punakaiki, you’ll follow the rugged West Coast south, where rainforests meet the roaring Tasman Sea. Stop to take in the dramatic beaches, waterfalls, and lush landscapes along the way, with plenty of photo-worthy moments. Your journey ends in Franz Josef, a gateway to towering glaciers and epic adventures in the heart of the Southern Alps.

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER/WAIAU – originally named Victoria, after Queen Victoria of England, geologist Julius Von Haast, renamed it, Franz Josef, after the current Emperor of his homeland, Austria. The Glacier is pale blue/green ice that has retreated and advanced many times over the years. A walk from the carpark to the Glacier terminal will give you some impressive views and an idea of the immense size of the Glacier itself. The township of Franz Josef is a small town based around the tourist and supply trade.

You may wish to start the morning by booking our suggested optional Helicopter flight – Neve Discoverer. This is a breathtaking glacier flight with an alpine landing, offering close-up views of dazzling ice formations and ever-changing scenery guided by daily conditions.

This is a drive you’ll never forget. You’ll leave the unique rainforest environment of Franz Josef, passing through the Haast Pass, with waterfalls and lush native bush, before the landscape completely changes into the rugged high-country of Central Otago. It’s an epic journey that ends in the bustling town of Wānaka.

WANAKA – faces north across Lake Wanaka, to views of the surrounding mountains, which are often reflected on the Lake’s surface on calm days. Poplars and willows grow around the Lake’s edge, affording a colourful show during autumn. Wanaka is best known for boating, fishing and skiing at the Cardrona and Treble Cone ski-fields.

Departing from Wānaka, you will climb the Crown Range, which is New Zealand’s highest main road. You’ll pass through the Cardrona Valley and by the historic Cardrona Hotel. The journey then descends steep switchbacks, offering breathtaking views of the Wakatipu Basin. Your trip concludes as you arrive in Queenstown on the shore of Lake Wakatipu.

QUEENSTOWN/TAHUNA – is the South Island’s most popular resort, set alongside the shores of Lake Wakatipu, under the gaze of the Remarkables Ranges. See the contrast of smooth glacier rounded hills, and jagged mountain summits that reach high above the ancient ice floor. The town is renowned for its jet boating, bungy-jumping, skiing and awe-inspiring scenery. Local story has it, that the gold prospectors of the 19th century pronounced the town as “fit for any Queen”, and so she was called Queenstown.

Get ready for another incredible adventure with Nomad Safaris – Full Day Lord of the Rings tour, where you’ll journey through dramatic landscapes made famous by the iconic film trilogy! Your guide will take you to the into Tolkien’s Middle-earth and discover the mystical lands that inspired the movies. This is the ultimate tour for every Lord of the Rings true fan! Spend a full day deep in the scenic movie locations, hear tales and behind the scenes filming stories, try replica props and walk in ancient forests. Highlights include the movie settings for Isengard, The Ford of Bruinen, Gladden Fields, The Pillars of the Kings, the exodus from Edoras, Warg Battle, Misty Mountains, Ithilien Camp, Oliphants, Caradhras, Lothlorien, Fangorn, Gap of Rohan, Dunharrow and many backgrounds to the scenes.

Spend a free day in the adventure capital of New Zealand. Whether it’s adrenalin, wine, food, golf or action you want it’s all here today for you. There is so much to do in and around Queenstown that you are spoilt for choice. Choose from one of our suggested optional tours, take it easy and enjoy the town or talk to your consultant about the myriads of fun on offer in this extraordinary destination.

Leave the adventure hub of Queenstown and travel through landscapes that could have been lifted straight from Middle-earth. Cross towering Southern Alps, skirt sparkling lakes that glimmer like elven realms, and follow winding rivers through charming alpine villages. Pause in historic Arrowtown, gaze upon the turquoise magic of Lake Tekapo, and journey across the sweeping plains of Southern Canterbury before arriving in Christchurch.

CHRISTCHURCH/OTAUTAHI -Located on a level plain, Christchurch is defined by its historic past and vibrant future. The willow and oak-lined River Avon meanders through its heart, where you can enjoy a punt ride or explore the sprawling Botanic Gardens. Much of the city’s unique charm comes from its blend of old and new; elegant stone buildings sit alongside striking contemporary architecture. Following a series of earthquakes, the city has been thoughtfully and creatively rebuilt, resulting in innovative new spaces like the Transitional Cathedral and Margaret Mahy Playground. This spirit of renewal makes Christchurch an exciting hub for arts, culture, and dining, while its proximity to both the stunning Canterbury Plains and the volcanic Port Hills offers easy access to outdoor adventures

Depending on your flight time, you may wish to spend extra hours in Christchurch exploring its gardens, art scene, and charming streets. Head to Christchurch Airport and return your rental car. Safe travels, brave adventurers. Carry the magic of Middle-earth in your hearts wherever you go.