Lord of the Rings Scenic Explorer
Travel north to south for two weeks exploring and experiencing Middle Earth's rugged beauty and magnificent vistas as captured in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies.
You’ll enjoy visiting some of the filming locations for the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings movies including Hobbiton Village near Matamata, and the Canterbury high country around Mt. Potts and Mt. Sunday which were transformed into Edoras. Driving through the Mackenzie country, near Mt Cook National Park, you’ll recognise many of the scenes and backdrops from the movies and in Queenstown you’ll experience a half day Nomad Safari of the Scenes tour, visiting remarkable locations such as Forest of Lothlorien and the Ithilien Camp.
Included in this New Zealand self drive holiday
- This New Zealand holiday starts at price per person (see details)
- 14 days / 13 nights from Auckland to Queenstown
- Accommodation is Motels (can be customised)
- A superb range of rental cars to choose from
- Rental car insurance with full coverage (variable excess/deductible)
- Unlimited kilometres, GPS navigation, airport and ferry fees
- Can be fully customised to suit you
- Private airport transfers
- Interislander ferry crossing
- Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, Matamata
- Hairy Feet Hobbit Scenic Film Location Tour, Tongariro
- LOTR Film Locations Tour, Wellington
- Weta Cave Workshop Tour, Wellington
- Hobbit Barrel Run Kayak Trip, Marlborough
- Lord of the Rings Edoras full day tour, Christchurch
- Dart River Wilderness Safari, Glenorchy
- Safari of the Scenes Glenorchy tour, Queenstown




Day 1 - Arrive into Auckland City, transfer to your accommodation and spend the rest of the day at your leisure
Private transfer Auckland airport to your accommodation
On arrival, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.
Itinerary information by APP & in country support
Access to our exclusive New Zealand Touring APP. The APP includes your full itinerary and reservation details, all available online and offline as well as lots of other great information such as restaurant guides, weather forecasts and local activity suggestions. Instant itinerary updates and changes are available and it's easy to keep in touch with us. The App is free and easy to download on your mobile using Android or IOS.
You also have access to our free call number and after-hours service if you require support while on tour.
Welcome to Auckland




Auckland, New Zealand's self-proclaimed "City of Sails" is the country's largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or take a drive through one of over 800 regional National Parks to see deserted beaches, waterfalls and native forest.
Fullers Auckland Harbour Cruise - suggested




Head out on the sparkling Waitemata Harbour and gain an insight into the city surrounds. This Cruise includes a complimentary return ticket to Devonport and a you'll also stop over at dormant volcano Rangitoto. Highlights of this tour include the iconic Harbour Bridge, the city skyline and Devonport’s historic naval base. You'll also see Bean Rock Lighthouse while enjoying morning or afternoon tea (a hot drink and a muffin). The harbour cruise lasts one and half hours and departs daily from the Downtown Ferry Terminal at 10:30am and 1:30pm.
Your free return ticket to Devonport can be used whenever you like - it doesn't have to be the same day. Hop across the harbour to Auckland's ‘marine suburb' and spend some time exploring its delightful shops, cafes and galleries.
Accommodation: CityLife Auckland
Accommodation type: Apartments




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10 am
- Walk time to shops/restaurants: 2-5 mins
- Parking: valet paid parking NZ$40-NZ$50 per 24 hrs
- Internet facilities: In room free access
- Restaurant on site
- Breakfast service available
- Bar on site
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Kitchen/kitchenette in room
- Room service available
- Hair Dryer
- Laundry facilities: On site
- Laundry facilities: Drycleaning service available
- Swimming pool
- Gym/fitness centre
Day 2 - Collect your rental car then explore Auckland and its surrounds
Collect your rental car




Our rental car range includes the latest vehicles from the top suppliers. Insurance is included with a small excess or deductible. All airport fees, additional driver fees and unlimited kilometres are also included. To help you navigate your way around New Zealand all rentals also come with GPS. Our range included small compact cars to mid-size saloons to large 4WD and people movers.
GPS navigation system
Use the latest GPS technology as you tour New Zealand. Your portable GPS features a simple touch screen interface with automatic route calculation and turn-by-turn voice-prompted directions including street name announcement. The automotive-grade GPS unit is easy to use and has multiple language options.
Explore Auckland City




On the edge of a natural harbour, 'City of Sails' offers the best of both worlds. Behind a vibrant urban culture are sandy beaches, native bush and lush rainforests. Start your day with a coffee in town and watch the sailboats from the Viaduct Harbour. Wander the docks and take the helm of an America's Cup Yacht for a trip across the Waitemata. If food and wine is more your thing relax on the Quickcat to nearby Waiheke Island for a five star food and wine experience. Hike the summit of Mt Eden - Auckland's highest volcano. Choose one of 800 regional national parks to explore - Hunua Falls - located within the Hunua Ranges - is one not to be missed. If relaxing is more your style, find a good book and head out to a deserted beach. Try Orewa - located an hour north of the city - or stay a little closer and head to Cheltenham Beach in Devonport. Make time to ascend the Sky Tower or The Harbour Bridge and spike your adrenaline by bungy jumping off either (or both!). Finish on a high with dinner at one of the many trendy eateries to be found on Ponsonby Road.
Accommodation: CityLife Auckland
Accommodation type: Apartments




Day 3 - Travel Auckland to Hobbiton (Matamata), take a tour of the Shire and then head on to Waitomo where you'll stay in your very own Hobbit house
Driving distance and time: 263 kms / 164 miles : 3.2 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Auckland to Matamata and Hobbiton




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.
Hobbiton Movie Set tour from Shires Rest




Become immersed in the The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films when you visit the actual Hobbiton movie set. Located just outside of Matamata - in the heart the lush Waikato farming region, your tour will begin with a drive through a picturesque sheep farm. You'll then be taken through Hobbit Holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Mill and the Party Tree while your guide shares behind-the-scenes tales and insight into the making of the films.
Matamata to Waitomo




Today you'll head towards the coast to arrive in Waitomo. Stop in historic Cambridge, home to a host of cafes, antique stores and a large village green. Cambridge has the feel of a traditional English country town and noteworthy buildings include St. Andrew's church, the old water tower and original courthouse. Cambridge is also the centre of New Zealand’s equine industry, and an impressive bronze horse sculpture pays tribute to its history.
Continue on to Otorohanga - renowned for its celebration of New Zealand's popular culture 'Kiwiana.' Stop for a visit to the ‘Kiwi House’ a native bird park owned and operated by the Otorohanga Zoological Society, Inc. Dedicated to the conservation of New Zealand's native wildlife. Within the park you will find nocturnal kiwi houses, Tuataras and many native and endangered birds. From Otorohanga it is only a short drive to the limestone hills that mark the Waitomo region and its famous cave complex.
Accommodation: Waitomo Caves Guest Lodge
Accommodation type: Bed & breakfast (B&B)




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10 am
- Walk time to shops/restaurants: 1-2 mins
- Internet facilities: On site free access
- Includes continental breakfast
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Hair Dryer
- Laundry facilities: On site
Day 4 - Continue South, stopping at Piopio on your way to tour the Hobbit film locations
Driving distance and time: 151 kms / 94 miles : 1.8 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Waitomo to Whakapapa Village




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.
Hairy Feet Scenic Film Location Tour




Visit the stunning farm location at Mangaotaki Rocks Piopio - near Waitomo - where the troll and campfire scenes in 'The Hobbit' were filmed. You'll see the towering limestone cliffs, massive rock formations and primeval forest that make up the location for Staddle Farm and Trollshaws. You can also have your photo taken in the exact spot where Bilbo received his magical sword 'Sting' from Gandalf. You'll join a personally guided tour of several key filming locations including the site where the Orcs and Wargs began attacking and the 'exit from the cave' containing the troll hoard.
Volcanic Explorer Scenic Flight by Aeroplane - suggested




Take a scenic flight over New Zealand's oldest National Park and world heritage site for a spectacular view of this unique volcanic landscape. See all three volcanoes - Mt. Tongariro, Mt. Ngauruhoe and Mt. Ruapehu as well as the iconic Emerald Lakes, the Blue Lake and the Tama lake. Climbing to 10,000 ft, you'll also view the active Mount Ruapehu crater lake, and spot some of the landscapes used in the making of The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Accommodation: Skotel Alpine Resort
Accommodation type: Hotel 3 star




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 3 pm
- Check out time: 10 am
- Parking: onsite free parking
- Internet facilities: On site free access
- Restaurant on site
- Bar on site
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Hair Dryer
- All rooms non smoking
Day 5 - Today enjoy the drive from Tongariro to Wellington and this afternoon visit the Weta Cave
Driving distance and time: 283 kms / 176 miles : 3.5 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Ohakune to Wellington




Leaving Ohakune you will first reach the military town of Waiouru - home to the National 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 into the capital city of Wellington. Plan to take most of the day for this drive.
Weta Cave Workshop Tour




Step into a world of fantasy when you visit the The Weta Cave, a mini-museum filled with props, characters and displays from well known movies including Avatar, The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. Hear stories of how these figures were brought to life and learn about the artists who created them. Watch behind-the-scenes interviews from Weta co-founders Sir Peter Jackson, Richard Taylor, Tania Rodger and Jamie Selkirk - and gain insight into the creativity and imagination that comes with crafting the art of Weta.
You'll also take a guided tour through the inner workings of Weta Workshop and learn about its processes and design elements. Please keep in mind that many of the projects that Weta Workshop has been involved in contain graphic scenes and special effects that may not be suitable for everyone.
Accommodation: CityLife Wellington
Accommodation type: Apartments




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10 am
- Walk time to shops/restaurants: 1-2 mins
- Parking: onsite paid parking NZ$20-NZ$30 per 24 hrs
- Internet facilities: In room free access
- Breakfast service available
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Kitchen/kitchenette in room
- Room service available
- Hair Dryer
- Laundry facilities: In room
- Gym/fitness centre
Day 6 - This morning explore Wellington's Lord of the Rings locations, take the afternoon to see te sights of the capital
Middle Earth Film Locations Half Day Tour




In a small group, you will head out to the Valley to explore the very best filming locations Wellington has to offer. See Rivendell where Frodo recovered from his knife attack, the River Anduin where the Fellowship voyaged to Amon Hen, the Gardens of Isengard where Gandalf rode to see Saruman and the site of the orcs felling the trees, the quarry used for the filming of Helms Deep in Rohan and Minas Tirith in Gondor. Then back to the city to visit the Mount Victoria lookout and Buckland Forest where you can find the "shortcut to mushrooms" then "get off the road" and hide where the Hobbits hid from the Black Riders before taking a run to the Buckleberry Ferry and discovering Dunharrow Rohirrim encampment along the way.
Wellington




Wellington, home to New Zealand’s centre of government has a largely cosmopolitan feel. Often referred to as ‘mini-Melbourne’, this (self described) windy city is a melting pot of art, culture, food and fashion. Quirky laneway bars, underground art shows, and hipster eateries make up its inner city vibe, while a host of sandy beaches outside the urban bustle bring a cheerful holiday feel.
Take a turn on the boardwalk en-route to Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum or catch a historic cable car from Lambton Quay and soak up the city sights. Wander the boutiques on Cuba St and check out the aptly named ‘Beehive’ off Parliament House.
Play hobbit for day and book a tour through Weta Workshop, the Oscar Award winning design studio for Lord Of The Rings. If eating is your thing, drive an hour out of town to Martinborough and experience some of the region's best food and wine. For those interested in New Zealand's native species, a trip to Zealandia is a must - the world's first fully fenced eco-sanctuary. Then kick off your evening in style - search ‘Metro Eats’ to choose from a plethora of the city’s best restaurants to dine.
Accommodation: CityLife Wellington
Accommodation type: Apartments




Day 7 - Take the Interislander ferry to Picton, then this afternoon kayak the Pelorus River where the Hobbit Barrel Run scene was shot
Driving distance and time: 0 kms / 0 miles : 0.0 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Interislander Ferry Wellington to Picton




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 you pass 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 Kaikoura 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 your cruise travels through Queen Charlotte Sound before coming to an end in the picturesque town of Picton.
Collect your rental car




Our rental car range includes the latest vehicles from the top suppliers. Insurance is included with a small excess or deductible. All airport fees, additional driver fees and unlimited kilometres are also included. To help you navigate your way around New Zealand all rentals also come with GPS. Our range included small compact cars to mid-size saloons to large 4WD and people movers.
Hobbit Barrel Run Kayak Trip




Immerse yourself in Sir Peter Jackson's 'The Hobbit' when you take this Hobbit Barrel Run River Kayaking trip. Journeying down the Beautiful Pelorus River you'll see actual filming locations including the rocks where Bilbo Baggins stood, the place where the dwarfs exited the barrels and the exact location where Kili was shot. Not just for Lord of the Rings fans, this spectacular kayaking trip will enthral anyone wanting to experience the beauty of New Zealand's rivers.
Accommodation: Harbour View Motel
Accommodation type: Motels - economy




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10 am
- Walk time to shops/restaurants: 2-5 mins
- Parking: onsite free parking
- Internet facilities: In room free access
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Kitchen/kitchenette in room
- Hair Dryer
- Laundry facilities: On site
- All rooms non smoking
Day 8 - Follow the Scenic coastal road to Christchurch
Driving distance and time: 326 kms / 202 miles : 4.0 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Picton to Christchurch




From Picton you cross the dry hills of the Marlborough ranges as 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 native wildlife such as seabirds and New Zealand fur seals. To the east is the turquoise waters of the South Pacific Ocean and to the west the towering Kaikoura Ranges. Kaikoura Township is a bustling place with many cafes, restaurants and shops - but the main reason for visiting here is the wildlife. Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand's only marine-based whale watching company offering visitors an exciting up-close encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale at all times of the year. Depending on the season you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales.
The drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch continues to follow the spectacular coastline before heading inland and through North Canterbury's major wine region, the Waipara Valley to arrive into Christchurch City.
Accommodation: Terra Vive Luxury Suites and Apartments
Accommodation type: Motels - premium




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10 am
- Walk time to shops/restaurants: 5-10 mins
- Parking: onsite free parking
- Internet facilities: In room free access
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Kitchen/kitchenette in room
- Hair Dryer
- Laundry facilities: In room
- All rooms non smoking
Day 9 - Explore the Canterbury High Country on a full day Lord of the Rings Edoras tour
Lord of the Rings Edoras Tour




Journey to the remote and beautiful Mt Potts high country station, home of Mt Sunday. See how this spectacular mountain was transformed into Edoras - the capital city of the Rohan people from the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Marvel at its rugged unspoiled beauty and breathe in the clear mountain air, while you indulge in a gourmet sparkling wine picnic.
Accommodation: Terra Vive Luxury Suites and Apartments
Accommodation type: Motels - premium




Day 10 - Today you'll enjoy a scenic drive through Canterbury and the MacKenzie Country
Driving distance and time: 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.1 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Christchurch to Mt. Cook National Park




Today you'll 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 lakeside town of 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 color. Continue along the lake to your final destination Mt Cook Village. Please note there are no food or shops at Mount Cook you will need to stock up prior to arriving in Mount Cook if you wish to self cater.
Glacier Explorers Mt. Cook - suggested




Experience 500 year old icebergs up-close on the Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand - and one of only three in the world! Very few glaciers terminate into lakes and even fewer of them are accessible. See towering ice cliffs and floating icebergs from the safety of a specially designed boat. These boats provide a safe way to view unseen and inaccessible areas of New Zealand's largest glacier - The Tasman.
Accommodation: Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
Accommodation type: Motels - premium




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10 am
- Parking: onsite free parking
- Internet facilities: On site paid access
- Restaurant on site
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Kitchen/kitchenette in room
- Hair Dryer
- Laundry facilities: On site
- All rooms non smoking
Day 11 - Journey to Queenstown, perhaps take a scenic flight to more Middle Earth filming locations
Driving distance and time: 257 kms / 159 miles : 3.0 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Mt. Cook National Park to Queenstown




Leaving the alpine region of Mount 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 the Gibbston Valley, 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.
Explore Queenstown and surrounds




Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders.
Head down the Gibbston Valley wine trail to sample some of the region’s best Pinot or catch a ride on the 100 year old Steamship - the TSS Earnslaw - to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and have lunch at Michelin star chef Josh Emett's ‘Rata.’ Check out nearby historic Arrowtown and enhance your experience with a four wheel drive trip to Macetown.
Take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking views. Venture further afield into the Fiordland National Park or head over the Crown Range to Wanaka. Drive through Lord Of The Rings country - or for the really fanatic, jump aboard one of many dedicated LOTR tours. And after all of that - if you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shotover Jet, Nevis Bungy, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge or Heli-ski.
Lord of the Rings Great Forests Scenic Helicopter Flight with Heliworks - suggested




Today you'll take a flight with the crew who were exclusively contracted for the filming of The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit Trilogies. Learn intimate knowledge about the area from your pilot and take in some of the most memorable sights of Middle-earth on this spectacular 75 minute flight.
Accommodation: Garden Court Suites and Apartments
Accommodation type: Apartments




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10 am
- Walk time to shops/restaurants: 5-10 mins
- Parking: onsite free parking
- Internet facilities: In room free access
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Kitchen/kitchenette in room
- Hair Dryer
- Laundry facilities: On site
- All rooms non smoking
Day 12 - This morning enjoy a Nomad Safari of the Scenes 4WD tour. You'll have free time this afternoon to explore
Safari of the Scenes Glenorchy Tour




For those keen on Lord Of The Rings - this is the tour for you. Go on a scenic adventure through some of the iconic locations used in the filming. Although none of the sets are left behind, the landscapes will be instantly recognisable. Follow the shores of Lake Wakatipu to the small town of Glenorchy and enjoy the spectacular views of the Remarkables Range as you drive. From Glenorchy you'll head into the beech forests of Paradise - located on the outskirts of Mount Aspiring National Park - before heading up the dart valley and back. Film locations you'll see include Isengard, Lothlorien, Ithilien Camp and the Seat of Seeing.
Accommodation: Garden Court Suites and Apartments
Accommodation type: Apartments




Day 13 - Take a day tour into Paradise and Mt Aspiring National Park, home to Beorn's house
Dart River Wilderness Jet




The Wilderness Jet journeys deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park, where myth, heritage and fantasy come to life. Here, you can experience a unique combination of breath-taking scenery and an exhilarating ride as we follow the braided, glacier-fed rivers by jet boat with exciting 360 degree spins along the way. Your guides give you their authentic touch, talking about the area’s rich history, the Greenstone trail and countless Maori legends. We’ll also take the chance to tie up the boat and let you walk amongst the ancient beech tree forests – an atmosphere you may recognise from The Lord of the Rings films.
Accommodation: Garden Court Suites and Apartments
Accommodation type: Apartments




Day 14 - Depart Queenstown today
Driving distance and time: 8 kms / 5 miles : 0.2 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Depart Queenstown today
Explore more of Queenstown before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.