Looking for a Great Family Vacation?

A New Zealand Lord of the Rings tour is the perfect solution

A family vacation that captivates both parents and children can be as elusive as finding the One Ring. But a journey to the spectacular New Zealand landscapes that were the setting for Middle-earth in the film versions of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy offers a solution as elegant as Elvish craftsmanship. This amazing adventure not only brings the beloved Tolkien trilogy to life but also showcases New Zealand's breathtaking natural wonders and rich cultural history. From the rolling hills of Hobbiton to the geothermal marvels of Rotorua and the fascinating Maori cultural experiences, you can be sure this trip will enchant every member of your Fellowship.

Check out this Lord of the Rings-inspired itinerary and see what you think. Remember, any trip can be customized to your specifications. To see some of our other New Zealand trips, click here. Contact us for more information or to start planning. 

Hobbiton: a marvel of movie magic that transports you into the heart of the Shire. Photo by Kerin Gedge on Unsplash.

Hobbiton: Stepping into the Shire

Start your adventure at Hobbiton, a marvel of movie magic made real, nestled in the lush farmland of Matamata. Acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson discovered the site during an aerial search for filming locations. Its idyllic rolling hills and ancient trees made it the perfect Shire, and it was lovingly restored and maintained as a permanent attraction after filming ended. 

The 12-acre movie set is dotted with 44 brightly painted Hobbit holes. Each is intricately detailed, from the colorful round doors to miniature props that suggest an entire bustling community of hobbits. The set transports you directly into the heart of the Shire, where Bilbo and Frodo's adventures began.

On set your guide will reveal delightful anecdotes about the filmmaking process, while you and the family enjoy a taste of Middle-earth hospitality at the Green Dragon Inn. The kids will delight in the whimsical details, from tiny clotheslines to miniature wheelbarrows, while parents can appreciate the craftsmanship that went into creating this living, breathing piece of cinematic history.

Maori man in traditional dress in Rotorua.

Rotorua 

Rotorua sits directly on the Pacific Ring of Fire volcanic activity. This geothermal wonderland offers a perfect blend of Middle-earth atmosphere and authentic New Zealand experiences. Don’t miss the Mitai Maori Village, which provides an immersive cultural encounter that rivals any fantasy. Here, families can witness the haka, the traditional Maori war dance, learn about traditional Maori customs, and enjoy a hangi, a feast cooked in earth ovens using geothermal heat. The luminescent glowworm caves are magical.

Bubbling mud pools and steaming geysers embodied the fiery realm of the  Dark Lord Sauron.

Tongariro National Park

Tongariro’s otherworldly landscape of bubbling mud pools and steaming geysers provided an apt location for the evil, fiery realm of Mordor in the movie. As the base of operations of the Dark Lord Sauron, this UNESCO World Heritage site features a dramatic, barren landscape dominated by three active volcanoes: Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu.  Mount Doom, where the One Ring was forged and ultimately destroyed, was filmed at Mount Ngauruhoe, known for its distinctive conical shape. The park's volcanic terrain, emerald lakes, and rugged scenery perfectly captured the desolate atmosphere of Mordor, making it a must-visit destination for Tolkien enthusiasts.

A hike up Mount Victoria reveals the spot where Frodo and his friends hid from the Black Riders, allowing you to recreate the iconic "Get off the road!" scene. For a broader perspective on New Zealand's natural and cultural history, visit the innovative Te Papa Museum.

Mt. Ngauruhoe, aka Mt. Doom. 

Wellington: The Heart of Middle-earth Filmmaking

Ready to see firsthand the movie magic that brought Lord of the Rings to life? Welcome to Wellington, affectionately known as “Wellywood," where you can tour Weta Workshop for a behind-the-scenes look at the props, costumes, and special effects that brought Middle-earth to the big screen. Here you can expect the adults as well as the children to marvel at the intricate details of Orc armor and Elven weaponry.

South Island: Middle-earth’s Majestic Landscapes

Crossing Cook Strait to the South Island mirrors the Fellowship's epic journey, with each mile revealing new wonders. The Canterbury High Country, home to Edoras (Mount Sunday), offers a panoramic vista that showcases the raw beauty of New Zealand's alpine landscapes.

Near Twizel, the long golden grasses of Mackenzie Country set the stage for the Pelennor Fields, where the fate of Middle-earth was decided. Standing amidst this vast expanse, it's easy to imagine the thundering hooves of the Rohirrim charging into battle.

Roy's Peak, Queenstown, location for Misty Mountains, Isengard, and the Pillars of the Kings. Photo by Rashel Ochoa on Unsplash.

Queenstown: Scenic Wonder

In Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, you’ll find the locations that served as stand-ins for the Misty Mountains, Isengard, and the Pillars of the Kings of Middle-earth.

Beyond the Lord of the Rings, Queensland offers the astonishing beauty of nearby Glenorchy and aptly named Paradise Valley with opportunities for scenic hikes, gondola rides, and high-speed boating known as “jet boating. It’s a fitting finale to your Middle-earth adventure, showcasing the pristine wilderness that made New Zealand the perfect choice for bringing Tolkien's world to life.

This Tolkien-inspired trip offers a unique blend of fantasy and reality that will captivate the imagination of both young and old.

Whether you're diehard fans of the books and films or simply seeking a great family vacation, this Lord of the Rings New Zealand tour promises to create lasting memories. From the rolling hills of Hobbiton to the majestic peaks of the Southern Alps, every step of this journey brings you closer to the magic of Middle-earth and the awesome beauty of New Zealand. Embark on this quest, and you'll return with tales to rival those of Bilbo Baggins himself.

If you’re ready for an unforgettable New Zealand family vacation, we can help you plan the perfect trip.  Contact us for a free quote or just to gather more information. Remember all our trips can be customized to your specifications.