Tour of Middle Earth by Road & Rail Itinerary

Mae Govannen! (Elvish) Greetings!
Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand’s vibrant harbour city, where sparkling waterfronts meet volcanic hills and a lively dining scene. After transferring to your accommodation, step into cinematic legend at Wētā Workshop for the Unleashed Tour. 

Wētā Workshop Unleashed Tour
A must for Lord of the Rings fans, this immersive experience reveals the artistry behind Middle-earth’s weapons, armour, creatures, and miniatures. Discover how movie magic was crafted and gain insider insight into the creative genius that helped bring Tolkien’s epic world to life.

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

This small-group, fully guided tour combines three of the North Island’s most iconic attractions into one seamless journey from Auckland to Rotorua. Travel comfortably at a relaxed pace as your knowledgeable guide brings each destination to life. Step into the magical world of Hobbiton Movie Set, explore the limestone wonders of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and discover Rotorua’s highlights. Blending fantasy, natural beauty, and rich cultural storytelling, this immersive tour delivers an unforgettable day showcasing the best of New Zealand’s North Island.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 Nights

Discover Māori culture and geothermal wonders with a Te Puia experience that combines day and evening exploration. By day, tour the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, watch master carvers and weavers at work, and explore the dramatic geothermal valley—home to bubbling mud pools and the famous Pōhutu Geyser. As evening falls, enjoy Te Pō, a rich cultural experience featuring a traditional welcome, kapa haka performance, and a delicious hāngī-style feast. This immersive experience offers a deep connection to Māori heritage and Rotorua’s unique geothermal landscape.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Fly to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital and the creative heart of Middle-earth. Meet your expert guide in the city centre and begin near the iconic Embassy Theatre. Climb Mt Victoria for sweeping harbour views before exploring the forested “Outer Shire,” where scenes from The Fellowship of the Ring were filmed. Visit the Miramar Peninsula, home to Wellywood and Weta Workshop, uncovering the movie magic behind the trilogy before a scenic coastal drive back.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Wellington - 1 Night

This morning, transfer to Wellington Airport and fly to Blenheim, the heart of New Zealand’s renowned wine region. Surrounded by sun-drenched plains and rolling hills, Blenheim is famed for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc and vibrant vineyard culture. Take time to explore the charming town centre, local cafés, and boutique shops. The region’s blend of scenic beauty, award-winning wineries, and relaxed pace makes Blenheim a perfect introduction to Marlborough, setting the stage for your next adventure in New Zealand’s South Island.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Blenheim - 2 Nights

Today is yours to savour. Wander through sun-drenched vineyards and sample world-famous Sauvignon Blanc at cellar doors like Cloudy Bay or Nautilus Estate. Cycle quiet country lanes, indulge in a long lunch among the vines, or explore the fascinating Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. Whether you’re sipping, strolling, or simply soaking it all in—Blenheim is pure New Zealand charm, wrapped in golden light and vineyard grace.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Today’s journey from Blenheim to Kaikoura by train promises a spectacular experience through some of New Zealand’s most captivating scenery. Departing Blenheim, enjoy views of world-famous vineyards and rolling hills before the track hugs the wild Pacific coastline, where waves crash against rugged shores. Relax in comfortable seating and soak in the scenery through panoramic windows. As the journey continues south, the dramatic Kaikoura Ranges rise into view, offering a stunning contrast of sea and mountains. This is one of the South Island’s most memorable and picturesque rail experiences.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Note: The Coastal Pacific Train does not run from April - August. If you plan to travel over this period we will arrange alternative transportation.

Accommodation: Kaikoura - 1 Night

This morning begins with a Wings Over Whales scenic flight. Sit back as your small plane skims the Kaikōura coast, where dusky dolphins slice through the water and sperm whales surface far below, with mountains rising sharply behind them. Later, board the Coastal Pacific train and travel south to Christchurch. This journey showcases both towering mountains and surging ocean, the train ventures along the Kaikoura Coast on the edge of the South Island and gets breathtakingly close to both the surging Pacific and the soaring Kaikoura Ranges. 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Christchurch - 2 Nights

Just a short drive away lies Methven, a charming village known for its scenic beauty and role in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, serving as a base for cast and crew. Nearby, the capital of Rohan—Edoras—was brought to life at Mount Potts. Journey into this remote high country for a 4WD tour of Mount Sunday, complete with expert commentary, breathtaking alpine views, and a gourmet champagne picnic. This unforgettable full-day experience is a must for Middle-earth fans and nature lovers alike.

Included Meals: Lunch

Take a scenic half-day tour from Christchurch to breathtaking Aoraki / Mount Cook. Travel through the fertile Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo and admire the Church of the Good Shepherd beside its striking turquoise lake. Continue into the Southern Alps and arrive at Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest peak. Enjoy time to explore the village, soak up alpine views, or opt for lunch at the Hermitage Hotel. For a truly unforgettable experience, take a scenic flight over the stunning glacier-carved landscape (optional, weather permitting).

Included Meals: Dinner

Accommodation Mt Cook - 1 Night

Travel from Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park to Queenstown, enjoying one of New Zealand’s most scenic road journeys. Pass dramatic alpine landscapes, turquoise glacial lakes, and rolling tussock plains. Stop along the way for photo opportunities at Lake Pukaki with iconic views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, and explore quaint towns nestled in the Southern Alps. With an expert guide sharing local stories and insider knowledge, the journey blends breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and a touch of Kiwi charm before arriving in Queenstown for your next adventure.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Queenstown - 3 Nights

Explore Queenstown’s backcountry on a thrilling jet boat adventure into Mount Aspiring National Park. Navigate isolated valleys and ancient native forests, frozen in time, then enjoy an easy guided walk along the ‘Heritage Trail’ at Paradise, learning about local flora, fauna, and Maori and colonial history. Travel by 4WD along scenic back roads, stopping at breathtaking locations featured in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, including Isengard, Lothlórien, and Amon Hen. This wilderness safari blends adrenaline, natural beauty, and cinematic magic into a memorable Middle-earth experience.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Set out from Queenstown on a full-day journey into the spectacular landscapes of Glenorchy, transformed into Middle-earth on screen. Visit iconic filming locations including Isengard, Lothlórien, and Ithilien, surrounded by soaring peaks, braided rivers, and ancient beech forests. Hear behind-the-scenes stories and discover how these wild landscapes became the backdrop for epic battles and unforgettable moments. With opportunities for short walks and photos, this immersive experience lets you stand where the Fellowship once stood.

Included Meals: Breakfast

We know you will love the Tour of Middle Earth New Zealand and it is time to leave the fellowship of New Zealand and head home with a memory card overflowing with locations to sleuth when rewatching the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit Trilogies. 

Today you will be transferred to the airport in time for your onward flight. Flying out of Queenstown airport is spectacular – the grand Southern Alps seen from high above is an incredible view that you’ll never forget. Returning to Auckland to connect to your international departure flight. 

Included Meals: Breakfast