Discover stunning landscapes from LOTR and The Hobbit filming locations in New Zealand, including maps, tours, and insider tips for film fans.
New Zealand is synonymous with Middle-earth, thanks to the breathtaking landscapes featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
From the rolling hills of Hobbiton to the dramatic peaks of Queenstown, these filming locations are a must-visit for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic tales.
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Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit Filming Locations & Tours
This guide explores iconic sites, offers fascinating behind-the-scenes insights, and highlights tours to enhance your journey and plan your ultimate adventure.
#1. Hobbiton Movie Set, Matamata: The Shire
Director Peter Jackson selected Matamata for its lush, rolling hills, perfectly capturing Tolkien’s description of the Shire. The site was rebuilt as a permanent attraction after filming The Hobbit trilogy, allowing fans to explore the whimsical world of the Hobbits.
What to Explore:
- Walk through the Shire’s iconic Hobbit holes, including Bag End.
- Relax with a drink at the Green Dragon Inn.
- Book an evening tour to experience the Shire under starlight.
Insider Tip: Guided tours provide fascinating details about the set’s construction, such as how real vegetables were planted to make the gardens authentic.
Tours to Book: The Hobbiton Movie Set Tour is highly recommended and includes transportation from nearby cities.
- Lord of the Rings 7-day North Island Grand Tour
- Private Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
- Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Auckland
- Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland
- Hobbiton Movie Set Tour & Glowworm Cave Day Tour
#2. Tongariro National Park: Mordor & Mount Doom
The volcanic terrain of Tongariro National Park provided the perfect setting for Mordor and Mount Doom, where Frodo and Sam face their final challenge.
What to Explore:
- Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of New Zealand’s most famous treks, through Mordor’s desolate landscape.
- See Mount Ngauruhoe, which served as the inspiration for Mount Doom.
Insider Tip: The park is a dual UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural significance and natural beauty.
Tours to Book: Guided hikes are available for those seeking a deeper understanding of the area’s geology and movie history.
#3. Mount Sunday: Edoras
The isolated beauty of Mount Sunday made it the perfect location for Edoras, the capital of Rohan, in The Two Towers. The hill’s panoramic views capture the spirit of the Rohirrim.
What to Explore:
- Hike to the summit of Mount Sunday for stunning vistas.
- Imagine the golden halls of Meduseld, which were constructed on-site for filming.
Insider Tip: The set was dismantled after filming, but the location remains a breathtaking tribute to the world of Rohan.
Tours to Book: Pure Glenorchy Scenic Lord of the Rings Tours offers a comprehensive visit to Mount Sunday with knowledgeable guides.
#4. Queenstown: Multiple Locations
The dramatic landscapes around Queenstown were used for several scenes, including the Argonath (Pillars of Kings) and battle scenes at Twelve Mile Delta.
What to Explore:
- Visit Deer Park Heights, a site used for the Warg attack scenes.
- Explore Twelve Mile Delta, where Frodo and Sam camped during their journey to Mordor.
- Enjoy Queenstown’s adventure activities, from bungee jumping to jet boating.
Insider Tip: Queenstown is a hub for Lord of the Rings tours, many of which include exclusive access to private land.
Tours to Book: Queenstown-based Lord of the Rings tours include behind-the-scenes insights and scenic stops.
- All Queenstown Tours & Excursions
- Lord of the Rings Scenic Half-Day Tour from Queenstown
- Half Day in Middle Earth: Lord of the Rings Tour
- Glenorchy Scenic Lord Of The Rings Tours Queenstown
- Lord of the Rings and Glacier Helicopter Tour
#5. Fiordland National Park: Fangorn Forest
Fiordland’s dense, moss-covered forests made it the ideal backdrop for Fangorn Forest, where Merry and Pippin encounter Treebeard.
What to Explore:
- Wander through lush trails and towering trees that echo scenes from The Two Towers.
- Visit nearby Milford Sound, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic fjords and waterfalls.
Insider Tip: Many guided tours offer props and costumes, making it easy to recreate your favorite movie moments.
Tours to Book: Combine your trip with a scenic cruise of Milford Sound for a full-day adventure.
- Cruise Milford NZ Small Boutique Cruise Experience
- Milford Sound Fly Cruise Fly Ex-Queenstown
- Half-Day Milford Helicopter Flight & Cruise from Queenstown
- Milford Sound Cruise with Round-Trip Flights from Queenstown
LOTR & The Hobbit Filming Locations Map
An interactive map of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit filming locations can make planning your trip easier. Highlights include:
- North Island: Hobbiton, Tongariro National Park
- South Island: Fiordland National Park, Queenstown, Mount Sunday
New Zealand’s stunning landscapes bring the magic of Middle-earth to life. Whether you’re a casual fan or a Tolkien enthusiast, visiting The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings filming locations is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
With these filming location maps, insider tips, and tours, you’ll uncover the stories behind the scenes and create your epic journey.
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