Auckland serves as the natural starting point for most international visitors and offers excellent car rental facilities. While the city itself wasn't a filming location, it provides a practical base for trip preparation. The city's waterfront and cultural attractions can fill a day if you have time, and the Wētā Workshop Unleashed exhibit offers an introduction to the movie magic you'll encounter throughout your journey.

Before departing Auckland, it's worth familiarizing yourself with New Zealand's driving conditions. The quality of the road network is generally very good, but rural areas feature narrow, winding roads that can slow progress considerably. Roundabouts are common, and driving on the left requires attention for visitors from countries where you drive on the right.

Car rental options at Auckland Airport are extensive, with major international and local companies represented. Consider your route requirements when selecting a vehicle – while most locations are accessible with standard cars, some gravel roads and mountain passes are better done with SUVs or 4WD vehicles, particularly during winter months. Keep in mind, that even SUVs and 4WD vehicles aren't allowed to be taken on certain roads (and beaches). If in doubt, ask the rental company beforehand.

If you plan to make your trip a one-way trip (flying out from Christchurch or Queenstown Airports), then you should also make sure the rental company you choose allows this and how much it will cost. The easiest way to do this is the search using your desired pick-up and drop-off locations by comparing car rental deals in New Zealand.

Keep in mind, though, that you'll need to take the Interislander ferry to get between the North and South Islands. Some rental companies will let you take a vehicle onboard the ferry. Others, though, have cars on both sides of the Cook Strait and require that you drop your car off in Wellington at the ferry and pick one up when you reach Picton. So make sure you find this information out in advance.

• Driving Tip from a DiscoverCars.com Renter: "Taking main roads and not going on the expressways was a way to see a lot more." Also keep in mind when not traveling don't he highway, many roads are curvy and distances may take longer to cover than you're used to.
• Seasonal Planning: Winter months (June-August) bring shorter daylight hours and potential weather challenges on mountain roads. Summer (December-March) offers the best weather but requires advance booking for accommodations and tours due to peak season demand. Spring and autumn provide moderate weather with fewer crowds, often creating ideal conditions for road travel.
• Money-Saving Tip: If you're considering traveling after the high season and planning a one-way trip, you may be able to save a considerable amount by doing this iternary in reverse — that is, picking up a car on the South Island and returning it to the North Island. Many more travelers go the other direction, so at the end of the tourist season, rental companies have many vehicles they need to relocate back to the North Island — many often completely waive any one-way fee in these cases. For more options and deals in different car rental locations, check the latest offers before planning your trip.
• For more tips about renting a car in the country, don't miss our guide to renting a car in New Zealand.

Departing the Shire, your route continues south to Tongariro National Park, approximately 210-220 kilometers from Matamata. This 2.5-3-hour drive typically includes a stop in Taupō, situated beside New Zealand's largest lake. The town offers excellent facilities and the nearby Huka Falls provides a scenic break with its distinctive turquoise waters.

As you approach Tongariro National Park, the landscape transitions to alpine terrain dominated by three volcanic peaks: Ruapehu, Tongariro, and the distinctively cone-shaped Mount Ngauruhoe. In the films, Mount Ngauruhoe served as Mount Doom, while the surrounding volcanic plateau represented the Plains of Gorgoroth in Mordor.
This UNESCO World Heritage area offers several ways to experience the filming locations:

• Tongariro Alpine Crossing: This 19.4-kilometer track ranks among the world's premier day hikes, traversing volcanic terrain between Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe. The track passes emerald crater lakes and offers optional side trips to the base of Mount Ngauruhoe. The crossing requires 6-8 hours and a level of fitness. Winter conditions (May-September) make the track dangerous without proper equipment and experience, so summer months (October-April) are recommended for most visitors. You need to book in advance to make the crossing (this is separate from the shuttle mentioned below).
• Shorter Walking Options: The Tawhai Falls Walk takes 20 minutes and leads to the waterfall used as Gollum's pool in The Two Towers. The Whakapapa area provides vehicle access partway up Mount Ruapehu, offering excellent views of Mount Ngauruhoe. The Desert Road section of State Highway 1 features official viewpoints showcasing the volcanic landscape used extensively in Mordor scenes.
• Cultural Considerations: Mount Ngauruhoe holds sacred significance for local Māori communities. While hiking to the rim area is generally accepted, climbing to the summit is discouraged out of cultural respect.

Accommodation options include lodges in Whakapapa Village, National Park Village, or Turangi at Lake Taupō's southern end. Staying overnight positions you well for the next day's journey to Wellington.

• Travel Information: The drive from Matamata to Tongariro National Park typically takes 3 hours, while continuing to Wellington adds another 350 kilometers. Consider overnight stops to break up longer driving days.
• Access and Fees: The national park has no entry fees, but Tongariro Alpine Crossing requires shuttle transport arrangements (NZ$30-40 per person) unless you have two vehicles. Guided crossing tours include equipment and transport but cost considerably more.
• Seasonal Factors: Winter transforms the area into a skiing destination with potential road closures during heavy snow. Summer hiking requires sun protection and adequate water, as the volcanic landscape offers little shade. Weather conditions change rapidly at altitude, making layered clothing essential year-round.
• Photography Opportunities: The Desert Road viewpoint often captures all three volcanoes in a single frame, it's a particularly striking view during sunrise or sunset. Lake Taupō's shoreline provides foreground interest with the volcanoes in the distance.

Wellington, known as "Wellywood" for its significant film industry, lies approximately 330-350 kilometers south of Tongariro National Park. This 4-4.5-hour drive passes through rural towns including Bulls (famous for its pun-based signage) and follows the scenic Kapiti Coast into the capital city.

As home to Peter Jackson's production facilities and much of the Lord of the Rings post-production work, Wellington offers both filming locations and behind-the-scenes experiences:

• Wētā Workshop & Wētā Cave: Located in Miramar, this Oscar-winning effects studio offers public access through the Wētā Cave, a free museum and retail space featuring props and collectibles. Guided workshop tours (approximately NZ$55-60 for 90 minutes) provide insight into the creation of costumes, weapons, and creatures. Advance booking is recommended, particularly during peak seasons.
• Mount Victoria: These urban hills provided the forest setting for scenes just outside the Shire in Fellowship of the Ring. The location where the hobbits hide from the Black Rider can be reached via short walking tracks from nearby roads. Even without specific scene hunting, Mount Victoria offers pleasant walks and panoramic city views from the lookout.
• Kaitoke Regional Park (Rivendell): Located 45 minutes northeast of Wellington near Upper Hutt, this park served as the filming location for Rivendell. While the movie sets were removed, the park features an installed replica Elven archway and informational displays marking filming areas. The short Rivendell Walk loop takes approximately 15 minutes through native forest alongside a clear river. Entry is free.
• Additional Wellington Attractions: The Embassy Theatre hosted the world premieres of the Lord of the Rings films and remains an elegant cinema worth viewing. Te Papa National Museum occasionally displays film-related exhibits. Various virtual reality experiences and themed escape rooms operate seasonally in the city.
• Reccomendations from a DiscoverCars.com Customer: Recommend walk around Wellington CBD (Cuba St / quays), Te Papa, Zealania also well worth a visit - and for a trip out of town try driving around the Miramar peninsular and visiting the very funky Maranui cafe - or if you want to go futher visit the Wairarapa/Remutaka Range to visit beautiful smalls towns of Greytown are Martinsville.

Many visitors choose specialized tours covering multiple Wellington filming locations, including Mount Victoria, Kaitoke Regional Park, and other sites used for Minas Tirith scenes. These guided experiences typically include expert commentary and behind-the-scenes information.

Wellington warrants at least two nights to adequately cover film-related attractions and experience the city's renowned dining and cultural scene. When ready to continue south, you'll take the Interislander ferry to cross Cook Strait.

• Travel Details: The drive from Tongariro to Wellington covers approximately 350 kilometers over 4 hours. Within Wellington, most film locations are easily accessible, though Rivendell requires a separate half-day trip.
• Ferry Information: The Cook Strait ferry connects Wellington to Picton on the South Island, with the journey taking 3-3.5 hours. Many rental car companies permit taking their vehicles on the ferry, though some require that you drop off your vehicle at the port in Wellginton and pick a different one up in Picton. Advance booking is essential, particularly during summer months and for vehicles. Arrive at the terminal at least one hour before departure.
• Weather Considerations: Wellington's windy reputation is well-earned, and Cook Strait crossings can be rough during winter months. Morning sailings generally experience calmer conditions. Have motion sickness medication with you if you're susceptible to seasickness.

Arriving in Picton marks the beginning of your South Island adventure. The journey to Edoras (Mount Sunday) covers substantial distances, so consider breaking the trip up with stops, perhaps even overnighting somewhere along the way.

The route from Picton to the Canterbury region offers several options:

• Marlborough Wine Region: The area immediately around Picton and Blenheim produces world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc. Wine enthusiasts might consider tastings in Blenheim, located 30 minutes from Picton.
• Kaikōura Coastal Route: State Highway 1 follows the spectacular coastline through Kaikōura, approximately 2 hours south of Picton. This town offers exceptional marine wildlife viewing, with sperm whales, dolphins, and fur seals commonly spotted offshore. The Ohau Point seal colony provides easy roadside viewing with minimal walking required.
• Alternative Film Locations: Kahurangi National Park features Mount Owen, which appeared as the exit from Moria. The town of Nelson serves as a base for helicopter tours to this remote filming site.

The journey continues inland toward Canterbury, passing through wine regions around Waipara before reaching Christchurch. This city provides comprehensive services and accommodation if you need to break up the journey.

Mount Sunday, the filming location for Edoras, sits approximately 160 kilometers west of Christchurch in the Rangitata Valley. The drive takes 2.5 hours each way, with the final 15-20 kilometers on gravel roads through Hakatere Conservation Park. While most vehicles can handle these roads in dry conditions, cautious driving is essential to avoid stone damage. Most rental companies allow you to drive on this road, but you may want to ask in advance just to be sure.

Mount Sunday stands alone in an expansive valley, surrounded by Southern Alps peaks and braided rivers. This location perfectly captured the isolated majesty of Rohan's capital. A 15-30 minute hike from the parking area leads to the summit where the Golden Hall once stood. While no trace of the film set remains, the 360-degree mountain views are spectacular.

The site offers no facilities – no toilets, food services, or mobile phone coverage. Plan accordingly by fueling vehicles, using facilities, and bringing food and water before entering the conservation park. Respect the environment by packing out all waste and observing any livestock on the access roads.

• Travel Planning: Direct driving from Christchurch to Mount Sunday takes 2.5 hours each way. Consider guided tours (around NZ$250+ per person) if you prefer not to drive on gravel roads or want expert commentary.
• Road Conditions: Gravel roads require reduced speeds and careful driving. Stream crossings are typically shallow but should not be attempted if water levels appear high after heavy rain. Winter conditions may bring ice or snow to higher elevations.
• Nearby Attractions: The Canterbury high country features stunning alpine lakes including Lake Clearwater and Lake Camp. Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki offer turquoise glacial waters with Mount Cook visible in the distance. Lake Pukaki served as Lake-town's backdrop in The Hobbit films.

Continuing south through the Mackenzie Basin brings you to Twizel, the base for visiting the Pelennor Fields filming location. This journey from the Mount Sunday area covers 250-300 kilometers, taking approximately 4 hours depending on your chosen route.

The drive through the Mackenzie Country showcases some of New Zealand's most dramatic landscapes. State Highway 8 passes brilliant turquoise lakes created by glacial sediments, with Lake Pukaki offering particularly spectacular views of Mount Cook on clear days. Peter's Lookout provides an excellent stopping point for photography.

Twizel, originally built to house hydroelectric project workers, now serves as a base for tourists exploring the region. The Battle of Pelennor Fields was filmed on the grassy flats of Ben Ohau Station, a private farm near town.

Accessing the exact filming location requires a guided tour, as the land remains privately owned. Local operators, some run by former film extras, offer 2-3 hour experiences including replica weapons, behind-the-scenes stories, and location re-enactments. Tours typically cost NZ$75-150 depending on group size and inclusions.
Independent travelers can gain appreciation for the location's scale by driving nearby public roads such as Canals Road or Glen Lyon Road. These routes provide views over the expansive plains used for the battle scenes, though you won't access the specific filming areas without a tour.

The filming involved up to 1,700 people over 32 days, with many Twizel locals volunteering as Rohirrim cavalry. This community involvement adds authenticity to local tour guides' stories and enhances the experience for visitors.
Twizel's location provides easy access to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, just 45 minutes away. If time permits, viewing New Zealand's highest peaks offers a spectacular complement to your Middle-earth exploration. The region also forms part of a Dark Sky Reserve, making it exceptional for stargazing on clear nights.

• Travel Information: Twizel to Queenstown covers approximately 200 kilometers via Lindis Pass, taking 2.5 hours. The pass road winds through high country and can experience snow during winter months.
• Tour Recommendations: Book Pelennor Fields tours in advance, particularly during peak season. Local operators provide the only access to actual filming locations on private property.
• Seasonal Considerations: Lindis Pass may require snow chains during winter. Check road conditions and carry appropriate equipment if traveling between May and September. Ask you car rental company if snow chains are available.
• Photography Stops: Kawarau Gorge between Cromwell and Queenstown provided the setting for the Argonath (Pillars of the Kings) scene. While the giant statues were computer-generated, the river gorge offers excellent photo opportunities.

Your epic road trip concludes in the Queenstown region, a fitting finale with arguably some of the most breathtaking scenery in New Zealand. Queenstown itself is a vibrant resort town on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by towering peaks (the Remarkables, Cecil Peak, etc.). Several LOTR scenes were filmed in the area around Queenstown and the nearby village of Glenorchy, which lies at the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu. In our itinerary, we’ll focus on Queenstown as a base and Glenorchy/Paradise as the final Middle-earth destinations: the settings for Lothlórien, Isengard, and more. Fiordland, not far from here, is also home to the iconic Fangorn Forest, where the breathtaking scenery doubled as the ancient woods of the Ents and Gandalf’s meeting place in the film trilogy.

Queenstown: While the town is known as the “Adventure Capital” (with bungee jumping, jet boating, skiing, etc.), it also has ties to LOTR. Around Queenstown you can find where the Ithilien camp scenes were filmed (at Twelve Mile Delta, a campground 12 km from town on the Glenorchy road – where Frodo and Sam first see the Oliphaunts with Faramir’s), and where Arwen’s Flight to the Ford was shot (Arrow River by Arrowtown, about 20 minutes from Queenstown). If you have extra time or interest, you can self-drive to these spots: Arrowtown’s Ford of Bruinen site is along a river bed track (best visited with a local tour or a suitable vehicle), and Twelve Mile Delta has a walking track to the filming location with some signage. However, the primary focus here will be the journey to Glenorchy and Paradise Valley, which offer the grand landscapes seen as Lothlórien and Isengard.

The Glenorchy Drive: From Queenstown, the road to Glenorchy is a destination in itself. It’s a 46 km drive that takes about 45 minutes without – but you will want to stop. The route winds along the edge of Lake Wakatipu, offering jaw-dropping views at every turn. There are multiple scenic pullouts – one must-stop is at Bennett’s Bluff Lookout (about halfway) for a panoramic vista of the lake and mountains. The road is well-paved but curvy; take your time and enjoy it. Early morning or late afternoon light can make the mountains glow, so aim for those times if photography is a priority. Upon reaching Glenorchy, you’ll find a small rustic town with a few cafes, a general store, and a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Don’t miss the famous red Glenorchy boatshed by the wharf – it’s an iconic photo spot (with or without LOTR context). The scenery around Glenorchy is really amazing, with dramatic landscapes that feel straight out of Middle-earth.

From Glenorchy, head further north a short distance to the area known as Paradise Valley. This is where some of the most enchanted scenes were filmed:

• Lothlórien Forest: The beech forests around Glenorchy (particularly in the Paradise/Bean Burn area) were used to portray the serene forest of Lothlórien. There’s a specific spot often referred to as the Paradise forest where you can walk among tall silver beech trees with filtered light – instantly you feel like an elf might greet you. It’s easy to see how these mossy, ancient woods became the home of Galadriel. (These woods were also reused in The Hobbit for Beorn’s house approach, etc.) No formal trail is needed – just a wander in the forest off Paradise Road can transport you to Lothlórien in your mind’s eye. Keep an eye out for any signs noting “LOTR filming took place here” – sometimes local landowners put up info boards for visitors.
• Isengard / Ithilien Lookout: A bit further along the rural road past a locality aptly named “Paradise,” you come to Diamond Lake and the Dart River area. Here, a large flat meadow with the backdrop of the Humboldt Mountains served as the Isengard valley. When Gandalf rides to Isengard in Fellowship, or when the Ents flood Isengard in The Two Towers, the surrounding shots of the fortress in a valley were filmed here (Orthanc itself was added in digitally). This area is often called the “Isengard Lookout” by tour companies. It’s on private property (Arcadia Station), but the views can be appreciated from the road. You’ll recognize the vista: a wide valley floor with a river (Dart River) running through, framed by steep forested mountains – the perfect spot where Orthanc tower was imagined to stand. If you go with a 4WD tour (like Nomad Safaris or Pure Glenorchy Tours), they will take you right to these viewpoints and even to some forest locations not easily accessible by normal car. Otherwise, driving the gravel road as far as it’s open to public access will give you a similar experience.
• Amon Hen (bonus): The very end of Lake Wakatipu (near Glenorchy) was used for some glimpses of Amon Hen – specifically, a place called Closeburn near Glenorchy provided the site where the Fellowship splits (though most Amon Hen scenes were done at Mavora Lakes further south). If you do a guided tour, they might point out some Amon Hen spots around here as. For an independent traveler, this is less obvious to find, so it might not be worth hunting without a guide.

Adventure options: If simply driving isn’t enough, you can spice up your Glenorchy visit with some adventure that coincidentally shows you LOTR scenery. A popular choice is the Dart River Wilderness Safari – a jet boat tour up the Dart River into Mount Aspiring National Park, combined with a guided forest walk. It’s thrilling and the guides do point out LOTR locations (like where Isengard was) as you go. There’s also horseback riding tours in Glenorchy that take you through “Middle-earth” (riding on the very fields used for the films – imagine riding where the Fellowship once walked). These are offered by local stables (e.g., Dart Stables). Such tours often let you feel part of the movie – some even provide capes for that authentic look on horseback in Paradise Valley. There are really a wide variety of trips available from Queenstown, ranging from guided LOTR tours to adventure excursions and scenic journeys that let you explore the region’s most iconic locations.

After exploring Glenorchy and Paradise, you’ll return by the same road to Queenstown. Queenstown is a great place to unwind at the end of your journey. Enjoy the lively town center, perhaps ride the Skyline Gondola for a last panoramic view (you’ll see Lake Wakatipu and the setting of Lothlórien from above). In the evenings, you have countless dining options to celebrate the journey’s end – from casual burger joints to lakeside restaurants. If you’re still up for a final LOTR-themed activity, in Queenstown you can visit bars like The Green Dragon (name of a pub here) or simply toast to your successful road-trip through Middle-earth.

• Driving Distance: Queenstown to Glenorchy ~46 km each way (about 45 minutes one-way). The road is paved to Glenorchy. Beyond Glenorchy toward Paradise, the road becomes gravel. Drive slowly on the gravel sections and be mindful of weather – heavy rain can sometimes make parts muddy, but generally it’s manageable in a 2WD in dry conditions. Always obey any signage about private roads or closures.
• Entry & Tours: All the Glenorchy/Paradise sites themselves are in open nature (no entry fees). If you do a Queenstown LOTR tour, expect about NZ$180–$250 per person for a half-day 4WD tour that hits multiple locations (often including Glenorchy and Arrowtown sites). These tours can be a great wrap-up because the guides often carry movie stills to compare and have behind-the-scenes stories. If self-driving, you can stop freely at pull-offs to take photos – you’ll likely recognize many views from the films just from memory.
• Nearby Attractions: Apart from LOTR, Glenorchy is gateway to great hikes (the Routeburn Track starts near here) and other activities like kayaking. Queenstown offers literally everything from vineyards in Gibbston Valley (if you fancy wine tasting) to skydiving. But those might be beyond our scope – just know you’re in an outdoor paradise. For a more relaxed addition, a drive to Arrowtown (a historic gold mining village) is lovely – while there you could check out Arrow River locations (Ford of Bruinen). In winter (July–Sept), Queenstown/Glenorchy region is often dusted with snow on the peaks – absolutely gorgeous, but bring warm clothes (temperatures can drop to 0°C at night). In summer, it stays light until 9-10pm, giving you ample time in the evening to explore.

Your Middle-earth journey concludes in the Queenstown region, widely regarded as showcasing New Zealand's most spectacular alpine scenery. Queenstown sits on Lake Wakatipu's shores, surrounded by dramatic peaks including the Remarkables and Cecil Peak.

While Queenstown itself offers various adventure activities, the primary filming locations lie around nearby Glenorchy at Lake Wakatipu's northern end. Several scenes were shot around Queenstown, including Ithilien camp sequences at Twelve Mile Delta and Arwen's flight at Arrow River near Arrowtown.

The Glenorchy Drive: The 46-kilometer route from Queenstown to Glenorchy ranks among New Zealand's most scenic drives. Following Lake Wakatipu's edge, the road provides numerous viewpoints, with Bennett's Bluff Lookout offering particularly stunning panoramas. Allow 45 minutes driving time, though you'll want to stop frequently for photography.

Glenorchy village features basic services and the famous red boatshed, an iconic photography subject. From here, continue north toward Paradise Valley, where several key sequences were filmed:

• Lothlórien Forest: The silver beech forests around Paradise Valley portrayed the serene realm of Lothlórien. Walking among these moss-covered trees with filtered light creates an immediately recognizable atmosphere from the films. The area also appeared in The Hobbit as Beorn's house approach.
• Isengard Valley: The flat meadow near Diamond Lake and the Dart River, backed by the Humboldt Mountains, served as Isengard's valley setting. While Orthanc tower was digitally added, the natural amphitheater perfectly captured the fortress's dramatic setting. This area sits on private Arcadia Station property, though views are available from public road access points.
• Access Options: Standard vehicles can reach Glenorchy on sealed roads, with gravel roads continuing toward Paradise. Four-wheel-drive tours (companies like Nomad Safaris or Pure Glenorchy Tours) provide access to specific filming locations on private land, often including forest walks and detailed scene explanations.

Adventure Activities: The region offers numerous ways to experience the filming locations actively. Dart River Wilderness Safaris combine jet boat tours with guided forest walks, covering filming areas while providing thrilling river navigation. Local stables offer horseback riding through the "Middle-earth" landscapes, sometimes providing costume elements for authentic photos.

There are really a wide variety of trips available from Queenstown, ranging from guided LOTR tours to adventure excursions and scenic journeys that let you explore the region’s most iconic locations.

After exploring Glenorchy and Paradise, you’ll return by the same road to Queenstown. Queenstown is a great place to unwind at the end of your journey. Enjoy the lively town center, perhaps ride the Skyline Gondola for a last panoramic view (you’ll see Lake Wakatipu and the setting of Lothlórien from above). In the evenings, you have countless dining options to celebrate the journey’s end – from casual burger joints to lakeside restaurants. If you’re still up for a final LOTR-themed activity, in Queenstown you can visit bars like The Green Dragon (name of a pub here) or simply toast to your successful road-trip through Middle-earth.

• Driving Distance: Queenstown to Glenorchy ~46 km each way (about 45 minutes one-way). The road is paved to Glenorchy. Beyond Glenorchy toward Paradise, the road becomes gravel. Drive slowly on the gravel sections and be mindful of weather – heavy rain can sometimes make parts muddy, but generally it’s manageable in a 2WD in dry conditions. Always obey any signage about private roads or closures.
• Entry & Tours: All the Glenorchy/Paradise sites themselves are in open nature (no entry fees). If you do a Queenstown LOTR tour, expect about NZ$180–$250 per person for a half-day 4WD tour that hits multiple locations (often including Glenorchy and Arrowtown sites). These tours can be a great wrap-up because the guides often carry movie stills to compare and have behind-the-scenes stories. If self-driving, you can stop freely at pull-offs to take photos – you’ll likely recognize many views from the films just from memory.
• Nearby Attractions: Apart from LOTR, Glenorchy is gateway to great hikes (the Routeburn Track starts near here) and other activities like kayaking. Queenstown offers literally everything from vineyards in Gibbston Valley (if you fancy wine tasting) to skydiving. But those might be beyond our scope – just know you’re in an outdoor paradise. For a more relaxed addition, a drive to Arrowtown (a historic gold mining village) is lovely – while there you could check out Arrow River locations (Ford of Bruinen). In winter (July–Sept), Queenstown/Glenorchy region is often dusted with snow on the peaks – absolutely gorgeous, but bring warm clothes (temperatures can drop to 0°C at night). In summer, it stays light until 9-10pm, giving you ample time in the evening to explore.

Congratulations – by following this itinerary, you’ve effectively “walked” in the footsteps of the Fellowship across New Zealand! From Hobbiton’s cozy hills to the windswept summit of Edoras, you’ve experienced the diversity of Middle-earth within one country.
Before we conclude, here are some practical tips and reminders to ensure your road trip is as smooth as it is memorable:

New Zealand is best enjoyed at your own pace, and a rental car is the way to go. Book in advance (especially in high season Dec–March) for the best choice and price. A compact car is fine for most of this route, but if you’re visiting in winter or want to tackle gravel roads more confidently, an SUV could be better for you. Automatics are common (easier if you’re not used to driving on the left side of the road, so using your left hand to shift gears). Insurance is important too – gravel dings and windshield chips can happen — most rental companies' included coverage don't cover glass and the undercarriage, but our Full Coverage does.

• Driving Safety: Always drive on the left side of the road in NZ. The roads in rural NZ can be narrow and winding. Speeds might average lower than you’re used to – don’t rush, and use pull-over bays to let faster cars pass. At one-lane bridges, yield to oncoming traffic as indicated by the signs. In winter, carry snow chains if heading to alpine areas (Tongariro, Lindis Pass, etc.) and know how to use them (you should be able to get them from your rental company, though make sure to request them in advance). Black ice can be a morning hazard on shaded roads – if it’s frosty, drive later in the day after the sun has warmed the roads. Also, watch out for livestock on country roads (especially near Edoras and Paradise, where sheep or cows might be on the road).
• Weather: New Zealand’s weather can change quickly. Even in summer, a sunny morning can turn into a wet afternoon. Always have a light rain jacket and some warm layers handy, particularly in mountain areas like Tongariro or Glenorchy. Wear sturdy shoes for walks/hikes. Insect repellent is useful in wet forested areas (sandflies can be pesky near lakes and rivers in South Island). And sunscreen is a must – NZ’s UV is strong.
• Booking Tours & Activities: For Hobbiton, Wētā Workshop, and the ferries, pre-book to guarantee your spot. Same goes for any specialty LOTR tours (Edoras, Pelennor, Queenstown 4WD) – they often have limited capacity. If you’re traveling in shoulder or low season, you might have more flexibility booking a day or two ahead when you see how your schedule and the weather look.
• Entry Fees & Hours: Keep some cash or cards on hand for entry fees or parking. Hobbiton and Weta we covered (paid tours). National parks and most outdoor sites are free. Kaitoke/Rivendell has no fee. Parking in central Wellington or Queenstown often is metered – carry coins or use parking apps where available. Most tourist sites open by 9am and close around 5–6pm; plan your days so you don’t miss the last tour (for example, the last Hobbiton tour of the day tends to start around 3pm depending on season).
• Accommodation: While this itinerary doesn’t dictate stops per night, common overnight stops are as follows. These break up the driving well. Book accommodations in advance during peak season, especially in small towns (limited options in places like Twizel or Methven). Holiday parks and motels are plentiful if you’re driving a camper or on a budget. Here are ideas of where you may want to plan staying along the way:

Finally, remember that a road trip in New Zealand is as much about the journey as the destinations. Allow time for those spontaneous stops – a cool viewpoint, a country cafe, or a roadside stand selling fresh fruit (in summer, you’ll see these in Otago). Some of the best memories might come from unplanned moments. And if you’re a LOTR fan, consider bringing a few soundtracks or audiobooks for the drive – nothing beats cruising along a mountain road with Howard Shore’s music playing to set the mood!

By the end of this trip, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the work that went into bringing Middle-earth to life, and you’ll have a new love for New Zealand’s incredible landscapes and hospitality. Whether you’re photographing yourself “running from Orcs” on Mount Victoria, standing victorious on Edoras, or simply gazing at a golden sunset over Lake Wakatipu, you’ll create your own unforgettable tale.

As they say in Middle-earth, “not all those who wander are lost” – in fact, the wanderers often find the greatest adventures. Safe travels, and happy road-tripping through Middle-earth!

While your Lord of the Rings road trip takes you to iconic filming locations, New Zealand's diverse landscapes offer countless opportunities that, let's be honest, if you're flying all the way there, you shouldn't miss. From thrilling hikes to serene water activities, these experiences allow you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery that inspired the films and that our customers rank among the most beautiful locations in the world.

• Hiking: Beyond the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which traverses volcanic landscapes reminiscent of Mordor, New Zealand boasts numerous trails through native forests, mountain ranges, and national parks. There are many options to choose from on both islands ranging from short walks for the novice, to advance, multi-day treks including scrambling for the experienced tramper.
• Water Activities: The South Island's pristine lakes, such as Lake Wakatipu and Lake Pukaki, offer perfect settings for kayaking and peaceful boat rides. For those seeking excitement, white-water rafting on rivers like the Shotover near Queenstown is highly recommended. There are many outfitters in Queenstown to choose from. And if you have the appropriate experience, there you could also rent a kayak or packraft in Queenstown.
• Scenic Cruises: With its fjords, bays, and other large bodies of water, New Zealand is the perfect place to take a cruise to enjoy some of the word's best natural scenery. Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park is perhaps the most popular, but Akaroa Harbour near Christchurch or Marlborough Sounds near Picton are also excellent choices.
• Cultural and Historical Exploration: Venture into charming towns like Arrowtown, where gold mining history adds a layer of intrigue to your trip. Wander its preserved streets or try your hand at gold panning in the Arrow River.. There are countless other small and larger charming towns dotted all over the country that are worth going through slowly.

Don't make the mistake of running from filming location to filmining location, and plan some time to enjoy New Zealand's great outdoors — it'll make sure your trip is one of a lifetime!