Many people only dream of exploring the rolling countryside of Middle‑earth™. Follow in the footsteps of Fili & Kili and take a trip to the Lonely Mountain to reclaim treasures from Smaug. Or journey through vast plains along alpine peaks and rocky outcrops before descending into the depths of New Zealand's underground. 

Seek out the secret entrance to Rivendell

Pure distinctive light reflects off the alpine tussocks and grasses, the lake shines an amazing turquoise blue and sharp alpine landscapes rise from the distant horizon. It's no wonder that Braemar Station at Lake Pukaki(opens in new window) was chosen as the location for the 'Warg Chase' and approach to Rivendell. Take a moment to imagine yourself discovering the secret entrance to Rivendell before immersing yourself in the depths of Middle‑earth™.

Seeking the entrance to Rivendell at Braemar Station in the Canterbury region.
Christchurch - Canterbury
Dwarves at Braemar Station, Christchurch - Canterbury
christchurch-canterbury

Christchurch - Canterbury

Discover great activities in Christchurch(opens in new window)

Highlights

  • Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
  • International Dark Sky Reserve
  • Lake Tekapo

Proximity

Explore ancient bluffs in Piopio

The looming cliffs, unusual limestone rock formations and prehistoric forests at Mangaotaki Rocks in Piopio look as though they've been created especially as a backdrop for Middle‑earth™. Explore below the Denize Bluffs with a guided walk with Hairy Feet Waitomo(opens in new window) and keep your eyes peeled for the Stone Trolls.

Film location in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
Waikato
Film location in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, Waikato

Highlights

  • Film location of Trollshaws Forest
  • Mangaotaki Scenic Reserve
  • Guided walk to Denize Bluffs

Proximity

  • by car:

    1hr 40min from Hobbiton

  • by car:

    2hr 45min from Auckland

An underground like the Glittering Caves of Algarond

Waitomo Caves offer underground caverns so surreal they rival the Glittering Caves of Aglarond. Discover immeasurable halls, filled with the everlasting music of water that tinkles into distant pools. Or explore pitch-black caverns only lit by the glittering rooftop stars of glowworms.

Waitomo Caves
Waikato
Waitomo Caves, Waikato
hamilton-waikato

Waikato

Learn more about the Waitomo Caves in the Waikato region.

Highlights

  • Glowworm cave tours
  • Blackwater rafting

Proximity

Make like Dwarves in Barrels

Pelorus River, half way between Blenheim and Nelson in the north of the South Island, is the setting for the barrel escape scene in The Hobbit:The Desolation of Smaug. Peter Jackson chose the setting for its solid rock shoreline surrounded by native New Zealand forest, and a sandy beach for the barrels to come ashore. This is arguably one of New Zealand's most beautiful rivers. Visit the river as part of a guided tour.(opens in new window)

The Barrel Run - Pelorus RIver
Marlborough
Barrel Run - The Hobbit Trilogy, Marlborough
marlborough

Marlborough

Discover more things to do in Marlborough.

Highlights

  • Kayaking the Pelorus River
  • Cycle the vineyards
  • Queen Charlotte Track

Proximity

Lead your company to Beorn's House

Paradise - a real town in New Zealand's Southern Lakes region is a picture of glorious isolation and natural grandeur. It's no wonder Peter Jackson chose this as the location for Beorn's House in The Hobbit Trilogy, as well as Isengard, Lothlorien and Amon Hen in The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Come here to experience the giant snow-capped mountains, hanging alpine valleys and twisting braided rivers!

There are hiking trails to suit all levels of fitness in Glenorchy, near Queenstown.
queenstown

Queenstown

Find out more about Paradise and Glenorchy.

Highlights

  • Paradise Cycle Trail
  • The Lord of the Rings Filming Locations
  • Horse riding

Proximity

Or have an ale at the Green Dragon Inn

Meet your Hobbit friends in the Green Dragon Inn(opens in new window) and swap tales of your recent adventures. Gather in the warm surroundings with the rest of your company and reflect on a journey through the real Middle‑earth™, experience it all in New Zealand.

 

Pickles asleep in The Green Dragon Inn
Pickles asleep in The Green Dragon Inn, New Zealand
hamilton-waikato

Waikato

Find out more about Hobbiton in the Waikato Region.

Highlights

  • Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata
  • Surfing in Raglan
  • Visit kiwi at the Ōtorohanga Kiwi House

Proximity

Journey as another character