19 Day The New Zealand LOTR Trilogy Tour 

Welcome to the land of The Lord of the Rings film series and The Hobbit film trilogy! 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.

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 from downtown Auckland. Leave the city behind and as you drive south, the landscape unfolds into the lush Waikato countryside, with rolling green hills, patchwork farms, and sleepy rural towns that could have stepped straight out of the Shire. Approaching Waitomo, limestone karsts rise dramatically from the earth, guiding you into “Hairy Feet” country.

In the Waitomo region, you’ll follow in the footsteps of hobbits and experience a world where nature’s magic feels wonderfully real with a Hairy Feet Scenic Film Location Tour. Set on a working farm, this guided experience takes you to genuine filming locations from The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. Travel by minivan through rolling paddocks before walking with an expert guide to the iconic Troll and campfire sites, including the exact spot where Bilbo received Sting from Gandalf. Along the way, enjoy engaging behind-the-scenes stories about the film production and the farm, all while taking in the peaceful rural landscape.

Leaving Waitomo, you’ll follow country roads past rolling green hills, working farms, and small rural towns to Matamata – home of the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour.

This morning, you’ll journey a short distance for the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour. 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. The route continues through forested sections of highway before you arrive in Rotorua, a city celebrated for its geothermal activity and rich Māori culture.

Spend a free afternoon in Rotorua. With a myriad of tours and attractions on offer, contact your consultant to add the perfect activities to your booking.

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 as you travel south across the volcanic plateau. You’ll pass by Lake Taupo and continue through Tūrangi. 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.

Today, 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 New Zealand’s capital, Wellington.

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, fiord-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.

Nelson is also home to Jens Hansen, the goldsmith responsible for creating the 40 different rings used in production. One of the original rings is on display and copies can be bought in 9 and 18ct gold.

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 – Opt 4: Swing Bridge, ex Nelson. This full-day tour offers a seamless and unforgettable way to experience the highlights of Abel Tasman National Park directly from Nelson. Your adventure begins with a coach journey to Kaiteriteri, where you’ll board a scenic boat cruise. As you travel up the coast, you’ll pass by the iconic Split Apple Rock and the park’s beautiful golden sand beaches before being dropped off at Anchorage Bay. From there, you’ll embark on a breathtaking guided walk through lush native bush. The walk’s highlight is the spectacular Falls River Swing Bridge, which provides incredible views of the cascading river and the surrounding forest as you cross. The trail continues to Bark Bay, where you’ll be picked up for the return scenic cruise and coach journey back to Nelson.

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. The trip ends at Punakaiki, a small village famous for its unique rock formations and the blowholes that erupt with a loud roar.

PUNAKAIKI – is the gateway to the dramatic limestone country of the Paparoa National Park. It lies halfway between Greymouth and Westport on one of the most spectacular coastal highways. The Pancake Rocks that Punakaiki is famous for are limestone formations that began forming 30 million years ago. The seabed was raised above sea level by earthquakes to form the coastal cliffs and coastline. The sea, wind and rain have since etched out the soft layers to form the unusual rock formations we see today. When conditions are right, large ocean swells thunder into the caverns beneath the rocks and huge water spouts blast skywards through the blowholes creating a spectacular sight. Tourism activities in the area include canoe adventures, horse trekking, caving and guided walks to name just a few.

This is a scenic trip that takes you south along State Highway 6. You’ll be following a winding road that offers continuous views of the rugged coastline. The route passes through charming, historic towns, and plenty of places to stop for photos before you arrive in the stunning glacier country of Franz Josef.

For a peaceful way to explore Franz Josef’s stunning natural beauty, we suggest an optional kayak and nature walk on the tranquil waters of Lake Mapourika. Paddle through pristine reflections and finish with a short walk in the lush, untouched Kā Tiritiri o te Moana (Southern Alps) rainforest.

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. On the way to Queenstown, we suggest a stop in the vibrant town of Wanaka.

Tonight, jump aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship for a magical cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station for a Gourmet BBQ Dinner. This is a magical evening cruise on the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship. As the sun sets over the mountains, you’ll cross Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak, where you’ll enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant. The evening also includes a farm show, where you can see sheep dogs in action and a sheep shearing demonstration.

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 – Glenorchy 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 remote and beautiful Glenorchy area, which was transformed into iconic locations such as Isengard, Lothlorien, and Amon Hen. The tour is filled with fascinating commentary on the films and the area’s history and provides incredible photo opportunities.

Spend the afternoon 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.

This is a scenic, easy journey that heads south from Queenstown. You’ll travel along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, with fantastic views of The Remarkables mountain range, before heading inland toward Te Anau. This town is your last chance to stock up on supplies before you head into Fiordland National Park, so it’s a very important stop on your journey.

Once settle, we suggest taking the optional RealNZ Te Anau  Glowworm Caves tour at 16:30. This is a magical underground experience where you’ll cruise across Lake Te Anau and explore a hidden world of limestone passages illuminated by thousands of twinkling glowworms.

TE ANAU – the focal point of the Fiordland National Park, the country’s most rugged and remote. Lake Te Anau sprawls at the feet of high rugged mountains with its South, Middle and North fiords probing into the ranges. The Lake, New Zealand’s second largest, is 417 metres deep.

Its Milford Sound day today! A big day but an extraordinary one as you join RealNZ on their Milford Sound – Coach/Cruise/Coach Tour. Take the time to enjoy the best of Milford Sound with a leisurely cruise. Exploring the length of the fiord you’ll learn about the history of the region and benefit from the knowledge of your specialist nature guide. Experience the cool spray of a waterfall as you move in close to sheer rock faces or watch out for dolphins, seals and, in season, the rare Fiordland crested penguins. Your experienced skipper will tailor the cruise to take into consideration weather and recent wildlife sightings, ensuring you’ll see the best that Milford Sound has to offer on the day.

Today, is a long but rewarding journey that showcases the remarkable diversity of the South Island’s landscapes. Leaving the peaceful lakeside town of Te Anau, the route travels east through the rolling green hills and farmlands of Southland before heading north into the Central Otago region. The scenery becomes more dramatic as you approach the high country, with vast, open spaces and a clear, crisp atmosphere. The final leg of the journey is truly spectacular as you enter the Mackenzie Basin, with the road soon paralleling the brilliant turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. The drive ends at Lake Tekapo, another stunning glacial lake, where the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve await.

Tonight, take a Dark Sky Project – Crater Experience – At Cowan’s Private Observatory. This exclusive stargazing experience is for those who want an intimate and personal journey through the cosmos. Your private guide will take you to Cowan’s Private Observatory, where you will use a high-powered telescope to view constellations, planets, and galaxies. The tour is a perfect way to learn about the night sky in one of the world’s best stargazing locations.

LAKE TEKAPO/TAKAPŌ – located in the Mackenzie country, with fantastic views of the surrounding Alps. The Lake’s unusual turquoise colour is given by fine rock-flour, which is dust ground by glacial movement and held in suspension by the Lake’s waters. The Lake is also well known for its brown and rainbow trout.

Begin your trip at Lake Tekapo, set against the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps. Travel across Burkes Pass and descend into rolling farmland, passing through the small towns of Fairlie and Geraldine. Continue east across the Canterbury Plains, with their unique braided rivers. The journey ends as you arrive in Christchurch, the South Island’s main city.

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.

Today experience more Middle-earth magic with a full day Lord of the Rings Edoras tour with Hassle-free Tours Ltd. Embark on an unforgettable journey into Middle-earth with a thrilling tour to Edoras, the capital of Rohan. Travel by 4WD through breathtaking landscapes to the remote Mount Sunday, the stunning location transformed into the iconic city set from the film trilogy. Your guide will provide entertaining commentary and exclusive behind-the-scenes insights. Handle movie replicas and enjoy a sparkling wine picnic lunch, making it a dream experience for any fan.

Head to Christchurch Airport and return your rental car. Today, you’ll sadly leave New Zealand with a taste of what this stunning country has to offer and hopefully plans to be back to see what you didn’t see this time round.