The Best Way to Experience Lord of the Rings in New Zealand

If you're a fan of The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit trilogies, New Zealand is the ultimate destination to immerse yourself in Middle-earth. From lush forests to towering mountains, the landscapes that brought J.R.R. Tolkien’s world to life are scattered across the country. But the best part? You can visit these iconic Lord of the Rings film locations, stand where your favourite scenes were shot, and even live out your own Middle-earth adventure. Here’s how to do it.

1. Start with Hobbiton in Matamata

When it comes to Lord of the Rings locations, Hobbiton is the crown jewel. Nestled in the rolling hills of Matamata on the North Island, Hobbiton is where the Shire comes to life.

The movie set was originally dismantled after filming, but thanks to the films' success, it was rebuilt and now stands as a permanent attraction. Walking through the lush, green landscape of Hobbiton, you’ll see Bag End, the iconic home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, the Party Tree, and even the Green Dragon Inn.

What to do:

• Take a guided tour: The Hobbiton Movie Set tour is an absolute must. Your guide will walk you through the 12-acre set, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, and you’ll get to finish your Lord of the Rings tour with a pint of Southfarthing ale at the Green Dragon Inn.
• Join a feast: If you're keen to experience Hobbit life to the fullest, opt for a banquet tour. After your evening tour of the set, you'll be treated to a hearty banquet fit for a hobbit in the Green Dragon’s dining room.

2. Venture to the Tongariro National Park – Mordor Awaits

Next up, we’re heading to the dark side. Tongariro National Park on the North Island is home to Mount Doom, or as the locals call it, Mount Ngauruhoe. This otherworldly landscape served as the backdrop for Mordor and is every bit as dramatic in real life.

What to do:

• Tackle the Tongariro Alpine Crossing: This is considered one of the best day hikes in the world. The 19.4-kilometre trek will take you through the volcanic terrain of Mordor, with the option to detour up Mount Ngauruhoe if you’re feeling brave. The landscape is stunning, with emerald lakes, steaming craters, and panoramic views.
  
  
• Go on a guided Mordor tour: If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still explore Mordor with a guided 4WD tour. Local guides know the best spots for photos and can share insights into how the area was transformed for the films.

3. Wander the Forests of Rivendell in Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand's capital, is the next stop on our Middle-earth journey. Just outside the city, in Kaitoke Regional Park, you’ll find the lush forest that became Rivendell. The stunning scenery, with its towering trees and peaceful river, is a perfect stand-in for the elven haven.

What to do:

• Explore Rivendell: There are self-guided walks through the forest where Rivendell was filmed. You can even find a replica Elven archway that makes for a great photo op.
  
  
• Visit Weta Workshop: While you’re in Wellington, don’t miss a trip to Weta Workshop, the creative studio behind the Lord of the Rings films. The “Weta Cave” mini-museum is filled with props, models, and memorabilia, and the guided tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at how the magic was made.

4. Experience Edoras in Canterbury

Time to head to the South Island, where the rolling plains and dramatic mountain ranges make the perfect setting for Rohan. The highlight here is Mount Sunday, which stood in for Edoras, the capital of Rohan.

Mount Sunday is located in the remote Ashburton Lakes region, just south of Christchurch and surrounded by the towering Southern Alps. It’s easy to see why Peter Jackson chose this spot – the sweeping landscapes are absolutely breathtaking.

What to do:

• Take a guided Edoras tour: Getting to Mount Sunday is a bit tricky, so the best way to experience Edoras with a guided tour. These tours usually include 4WD transport, lunch, and plenty of time to explore the hilltop, take in the views, and imagine the Rohirrim galloping across the plains.
  
  
• Hike to Edoras: If you prefer to explore on your own, there’s a short but steep walking track that takes you to the top of Mount Sunday. The views from the top are well worth the effort.

5. Journey into Fangorn Forest in Fiordland

Our next stop is Fiordland National Park, one of the most stunning and remote areas of New Zealand. This is where you'll find the dark, mysterious forests that became Fangorn Forest, home to Treebeard and the Ents.

What to do:

• Explore Milford Sound: While the exact Fangorn Forest filming locations are tricky to pinpoint, Milford Sound is a must-visit while you’re in Fiordland. The towering cliffs, waterfalls, and deep blue waters feel like they’re straight out of Middle-earth. You can explore the Sound by boat, kayak, or on foot.
  
  
• Take a helicopter tour: For a truly epic experience, consider a helicopter tour over Fiordland. Many operators offer Lord of the Rings themed flights that take you over key filming locations, giving you a bird’s-eye view of Middle-earth.

6. Discover Pelennor Fields in Twizel

If you’re a fan of epic battles, you can’t miss Twizel in the Mackenzie Basin. This small town was transformed into Pelennor Fields for the massive battle scenes in The Return of the King. The wide-open spaces, with the Southern Alps as a backdrop, create the perfect setting for a showdown between good and evil.

What to do:

• Take a Pelennor Fields tour: Local guides offer tours that take you to the exact spots where the battle scenes were filmed. You’ll learn about how the scenes were shot, see where the actors stood, and even get to handle some replica weapons and armour.
  
  
• Explore the Mackenzie Basin: While you’re in the area, take some time to explore the stunning Mackenzie Basin. Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki are both nearby and offer incredible views, especially at sunset.

7. Finish with a Journey to the Southern Alps – The Misty Mountains

The Southern Alps stretch down the spine of the South Island, and their rugged peaks and deep valleys were used to represent the Misty Mountains in the films. The Southern Alps are the perfect place to end your Middle-earth adventure, with plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten path.

What to do:

• Drive the Great Alpine Highway: This scenic drive takes you across the Southern Alps from Christchurch to the West Coast. Along the way, you’ll pass through Arthur’s Pass National Park, where many of the Misty Mountains scenes were filmed. Keep an eye out for dramatic mountain passes, waterfalls, and the odd kea (a native New Zealand parrot).
  
  
• Go on a Misty Mountains trek: For those who love a good hike, there are plenty of trekking options in the Southern Alps. The Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, offers stunning alpine scenery and is a great way to experience the Misty Mountains up close.

Tips for Planning Your Lord of the Rings Adventure

• Rent a car or campervan: Many of the Lord of the Rings locations are in remote areas, so having your own wheels will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
  
  
• Book tours in advance: Some of the Lord of the Rings tours, especially those in popular areas like Hobbiton and Edoras, can fill up quickly. It’s a good idea to book ahead to secure your spot.
  
  
• Pack for all weather: New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. Make sure you’re prepared for everything from sunshine to rain, and even snow, depending on the season.
  
  
• Take your time: There’s so much to see and do that it’s worth spending at least two to three weeks exploring both the North and South Islands. This will give you plenty of time to visit all the key Lord of the Rings locations and enjoy everything else New Zealand has to offer.

Wrapping Up Your Middle-earth Adventure

Touring New Zealand as a Lord of the Rings fan is a dream come true. The landscapes are as breathtaking in person as they are on screen, and the chance to stand in the very spots where some of your favourite scenes were filmed is an experience you’ll never forget. Whether you’re strolling through Hobbiton, conquering Mount Doom, or gazing out over the fields of Rohan, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into Middle-earth itself. 

Our team of New Zealand Travel Specialists have put together the ultimate Lord of the Rings tours here in New Zealand, with itineraries spanning the nation that include everything from Hobbiton to the Misty Mountains! You can check out our Lord of the Rings tours here. Have some questions about travelling to New Zealand? Read our other Lord of the Rings blogs, or get in contact with us to to see how we can help. So, pack your bags, grab your copy of The Lord of the Rings, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. New Zealand is calling, and Middle-earth awaits!