New Zealand offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences for travellers, but one destination stands out from the rest for Lord of the Rings fans: the Lord of the Rings Tour. If you’re a fan of the iconic film series, you will want to take advantage of the chance to explore the landscapes that brought Middle Earth to life on the big screen. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the most notable filming locations in New Zealand and give you tips on how to make the most of your Lord of the Rings Tour.
The Lord of the Rings film series was shot all over New Zealand, but some locations are more famous. One of the must-visit locations is Hobbiton, the iconic home of Frodo and Bilbo Baggins. Located in the rolling green hills of Matamata, Hobbiton offers an immersive tour of 44 Hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and the Shire’s stunning natural beauty. Be sure to try some of the delicious local ale while you’re there.
Another must-visit location is Tongariro National Park, used as Mordor and Mount Doom in the films. We recommend hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of the best one-day hikes in the world, which takes you through the park’s stunning landscapes, including the Red Crater, Mount Doom, and the spectacular Emerald Lakes. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will make you feel like you’re wandering through Middle Earth yourself.
Another famous location is the charming town of Nelson, which was used for the Elven outpost of Rivendell. The city is surrounded by a lush countryside filled with stunning waterfalls and unique rock formations. The tour will take you to nearby Kaiteriteri Beach, where you can enjoy spectacular ocean views and relax on the golden sand beaches. This area is so breathtaking you’ll forget it’s not Middle Earth.
After exploring these iconic locations, you should head south to Queenstown, where various backdrops were used in the films. One is the ski resort of Cardrona, which played a crucial role in the winter battle between the heroes and the orcs. You can also try skiing or snowboarding here. The grand finale of the Lord of the Rings Tour is a helicopter tour that takes you up close and personal with the Southern Alps – another filming location.
The Lord of the Rings Tour is a unique and exciting way to experience New Zealand’s stunning landscapes while immersing yourself in the world of Middle Earth. Every destination on the tour is fascinating, and the country’s natural beauty adds an extra layer of depth that makes the journey even more unforgettable. So, if you’re a Lord of the Rings fan and planning to visit New Zealand, take advantage of the chance to experience the Lord of the Rings Tour.
