21 Day Lord of the Rings Guided Tour

Plan an unforgettable Lord of the Rings tour with New Zealand Guided Tours. Explore the filming highlights with a private guide.

We offer the best flexible Lord of the Rings New Zealand escorted tours with no date or itinerary restrictions. If you came to New Zealand to fulfil a dream of discovering Middle-earth in real life, this is the Lord of the Rings tour you can’t miss. See the best filming locations at a leisurely pace.

From Hobbiton to Weta Workshop, our Lord of the Rings New Zealand tours cover the best of Middle-earth.

Read on to learn more about our 21 Day Lord of the Rings New Zealand Tours.

21 Day Lord of the Rings New Zealand Tours Itinerary

Day 1 Auckland

Auckland is a multi-cultural urban oasis of food, music, arts and culture. Your guide will greet you at Auckland Airport and your Lord of the Rings Locations Tour will commence.

Explore Auckland with your guide.

Auckland Museum offers a great introduction to New Zealand. With internationally significant Māori and Pacific collections to explore, the Auckland Museum is a must-see place to experience our rich culture.

If you would like to get straight into nature; skipper an America’s Cup yacht or experience whale watching. Or visit top attractions such as the Sky Tower and Mt Eden’s volcanic crater.

In the evening the fairy lights of Federal Street will lure you into some of the finest restaurants in Auckland or head down to The Viaduct, a food and drinks hub in central Auckland.

Stay 1 night in Auckland.

Day 2 Bay of Islands + Waitangi Maori Hangi and Concert

Travel time Auckland to Bay of Islands – 3.5 hours 

Discover the stunning northern reaches of New Zealand today with your guide. The Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region made up of 144 islands known for its stunning beauty & history.

New Zealand’s newest Marine mammal sanctuary Te Pēwhairangi (Bay of Islands) boasts an abundance of marine life, which includes whales, dolphins, penguins, fur seals and a large variety of sea birds. For those that love nature, beaches and water activities, it’s paradise.

The bustling seaside town of Paihia has an extensive choice of activities, accommodation and delicious dining options. Paihia is the perfect base for discovering the coves and beaches of the Bay of Islands.

This afternoon visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a cultural experience. You have the option to take part in a guided tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and a Cultural Performance. Before dinner you will experience a traditional Maori performance including the haka and a waiata a ringa. Finally, to finish off your evening, enjoy a four-course dinner with traditional hangi mains, where food is cooked underground long and slow from stones that are heated in a pit.

An absolute must-do for all visitors to New Zealand and to Northland, Waitangi offers an authentic and interactive cultural experience. Discover the story of New Zealand’s history and the story of two peoples coming together as one under the Treaty of Waitangi, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, at this award-winning national attraction.

Stay 2 nights in Paihia, Bay of Islands.

Day 3 Discover the Bay Cruise + Russell

Board your premium cruise ‘Discover the Bay’ and see for yourself the best of what the Bay of Islands has to offer. Journey to the Hole in the Rock and if weather permits, sail through it. See marine wildlife including Dolphins and stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island to have a swim, go for a walk, enjoy a BBQ lunch and relax.

In the afternoon, you might like your guide to take you to Russell. Russell is a significant place in New Zealand’s history, being New Zealand’s first European settlement and sea port. Russell is also home to the Duke of Marlborough, New Zealand’s first licensed hotel and pub.

Day 4 Cambridge

Travel time Bay of Islands to Cambridge – 5 hours 

Nestled in the heart of the Waikato region, Cambridge is a charming, historic town known for its picturesque streets lined with heritage buildings, vibrant gardens, and a rich equine culture. Often referred to as the “Town of Trees and Champions,” Cambridge offers a welcoming atmosphere with easy access to outdoor activities, including cycling, walking trails, and nearby lakes. A visit here provides a perfect blend of small-town charm, rich history, and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination in New Zealand.

Stay 1 night in Cambridge.

Day 5 Hairy Feet Scenic Film Location Tour + Hobbiton Movie Set Tour + Rotorua

Travel time Cambridge to Waitomo – 1 hour 

Venture off the beaten track as your guide takes you on a scenic drive to Waitomo. Embark on a personally guided tour of this beautiful family farm, which many directors and actors have fallen in love with.

Witness for yourself the untouched beauty of the Denize Bluffs, strange rock formations and lush native bush. Your guide will escort you through locations used for Middle-earth, telling stories from the days of filming and helping to get your photos just right, including getting a photo exactly where Bilbo receives the famous sword “Sting” from Gandalf. All tours are fully guided, starting with a short drive through farmland before taking an easy walk around the sites used for filming.

Travel time Waitomo to Matamata – 1.5 hours

Experience the real Middle-earth™ at the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, where you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire™, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Your guide will escort you around the set, pointing out famous locations and explaining how the movie magic was made. You will be fully guided around the 12 acre set; past Hobbit Holes™, the Mill and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn. You will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth™ adventure.

Travel time Matamata to Rotorua – 1 hour 

Enjoy the scenic drive through rolling farmland to Rotorua, the geothermal capital of New Zealand.

Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 6 Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa + Te Pā Tū – Evening Cultural Experience & Hangi Dinner

In the morning, step into Wai Ariki, a place where Ngāti Whakaue culture, healing traditions, and warm hospitality converge. Nestled by the captivating Lake Rotorua, its name, ‘Chiefly Waters,’ reflects the majesty it holds. Owned and curated by the local iwi, you’ll discover the Wai Whakaora, a path to restoration, and the exclusive sanctuary, Āhuru Mōwai, both deeply rooted in Māori values. Experience a world of uniqueness that transcends borders and touches hearts. Wai Ariki awaits to embrace you with its magic.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Māori culture with the Te Pā Tū Evening Cultural Experience & Hāngi Dinner. Enjoy traditional storytelling, song, and dance before sharing a delicious seasonal hāngi feast cooked in an earth oven. This unforgettable evening celebrates Māori heritage, connection, and hospitality in a truly authentic setting.

Day 7 Mount Doom Scenic Flight + Rapids Jet + Taupo

Travel time Rotorua to Taupo – 1 hour 

Your geothermal experience will continue as you enjoy the short drive to Taupo, a small town set beside New Zealand’s largest lake. With the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park looming in the distance, and the lake itself formed from an ancient volcanic crater, you will get a close-up look at the immense forces that shaped New Zealand. 

Lift-off high above Lake Taupo to soar around the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park, flying over Mt Doom as you explore the craters and colourful volcanic lakes on a scenic floatplane flight.

This afternoon, strap in, hold tight, and get ready for high-speed action on the Waikato River. Climb aboard a custom Kiwi-built jet boat as your expert driver powers through tight turns, rapid spins, and heart-racing bursts of speed. Surf the waves of Nga Awa Purua Rapids and experience the dramatic Aratiatia Dam release from water level. In just 35 minutes, you will skim narrow channels, race past geothermal scenery, and return to the jetty smiling, soaked in adrenaline, and ready to go again.

Stay 1 night in Taupo.

Day 8 Gollum’s Pool + Mordor + Wellington

Travel time Taupo to Wellington – 5.5 hours 

Enjoy the scenic drive from Taupo to Wellington. Along the way, you will come across Tongariro National Park, which boasts an impressive collection of volcanoes. For Lord of the Rings fans your guide will take you to view Gollum’s Pool and show you Mordor!

Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, has so much to offer. Set on the edge of a stunning harbour, surrounded by rolling hills, it’s a city rich in culture waiting to be explored. From shopping and picturesque walks to concerts, live theatre, exhibitions, festivals, Te Papa Tongarewa: the Museum of New Zealand, and more – Wellington has something for everyone.

Tour Wellington’s top attractions with your guide, popular options include Te Papa Tongarewa: The Museum of New Zealand, Weta Workshop, Wellington Cable Car, Mt Victoria Lookout and Zealandia – an ecosanctuary in the heart of Wellington.

Stay 2 nights in Wellington.

Day 9 New Zealand Lord of the Rings Tour + Weta Workshop

Step into the magical world of The Lord of the Rings on an unforgettable full-day adventure around Wellington, the capital of Middle-earth™. Explore iconic filming locations from across the region and go behind the scenes with a guided tour of the world-famous, multi-award-winning Wētā Workshop.

Wander through the enchanting Elven refuge of Rivendell, stand at the Fords of Isen, and follow in the footsteps of Gandalf the Grey and Saruman the White in the Gardens of Isengard. Visit the dramatic landscapes that brought Helm’s Deep and the River Anduin to life, and relive tense moments as you hide from the Nazgûl at the “Shortcut to Mushrooms” and “Get Off the Road” scenes on Mt Victoria.

Soak up breathtaking views of Wellington City and Harbour from Mt Victoria, enjoy a scenic drive through the charming eastern suburbs, and uncover even more cinematic secrets along the way. A must-do experience for every Lord of the Rings fan.

Day 10 Cook Strait Ferry – Wellington to Picton (Private Cabin) + Things To Do In Kaikoura

Sailing time Wellington to Picton – 3.5 hours 

Embark on a scenic cruise through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds to Picton. Unwind in your private cabin and arrive refreshed, ready for the next leg of your journey.

Travel time Picton to Kaikoura – 2.5 hours 

Upon reaching the South Island, your guide will take you on a scenic drive through the Marlborough wine region. You have the option to stop at a winery (or two!) along the way for samples of the award-winning wines.

Kaikoura’s special talent is marine mammal encounters – whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in the coastal waters. Whale watching trips can be taken by sea or air and the local seal colony is always entertaining.

Spend the evening in Kaikoura, a stunning coastal town with a backdrop of majestic mountains. Be sure to sample the superb local seafood at dinner!

Stay 1 night in Kaikoura.

Day 11 Christchurch

Travel time Kaikoura to Christchurch – 2.5 hours 

Discover the vibrant and picturesque garden city, renowned for its natural beauty, lively entertainment scene, and strong cultural heritage. With its stunning botanical gardens and tree-lined avenues, Christchurch is both a sophisticated city and beautiful place to relax.

Explore Christchurch with your guide. Recommended activities include the Christchurch Gondola, Tramway, Punting on the Avon River, Riverside Market and the Botanical Gardens.

In the evening option to add dinner aboard the Christchurch Tram, enjoy a three-course meal whilst touring the inner city, the perfect way to experience Christchurch City.

Stay 2 nights in Christchurch.

Day 12 Edoras Tour, Lord of the Rings Filming Locations

Depart Christchurch and travel to the remote backcountry region of Mount Potts by 6WD vehicle. Discover first-hand how the peaceful mountain location was transformed into Edoras, the capital of the Rohan people in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Get back to nature and soak up the unspoiled beauty as you encounter lakes of sparkling water and rivers that glisten blue. Breathe in the crisp mountain air, and take a short guided walk to stand on the mountain summit for exceptional views.

Get the chance to take souvenir photos of movie prop swords and flags, and listen to an informative commentary from your guide along the way.

Day 13 Lake Tekapo + Star Gazing at Mt John Observatory

Travel time Christchurch to Lake Tekapo – 3.5 hours 

Your scenic journey through the Mackenzie Basin begins today. As the Southern Alps loom before you, there will be photo opportunities around every corner.

Picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it the perfect spot for stargazing.

Lake Tekapo has many things to do and explore. Visit the historic Church of the Good Shepherd, one of the most photographed places in the country. One of the most popular attractions in town is Tekapo Springs with hot pools, spas, water slides, steam rooms and saunas.

In the evening prepare for an awe-inspiring evening on a magical star gazing tour. Your expert astronomy guides bring the night sky to life, sharing the science and the stories of our Southern skies. Stargaze using the naked eye guided by lasers. Then proceed to explore deeper through up to 16″ optical telescopes, including in the private observatory dome. Take in the incredible Milky Way, far off planets, star clusters, solar systems, and even distant galaxies. Every night sky beholds something different.

Stay 2 nights at Lake Tekapo.

Day 14 Lake Tekapo + Mount Cook + Glacier Explorers Tour

Travel time Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook – 1 hour 15 minutes (each way)

Mount Cook Village is nestled at the base of the Southern Alps, with stunning views of Mount Cook and the surrounding mountains. At 3,724 metres, New Zealand’s highest mountain (Aoraki / Mount Cook) is dazzling, yet there are 27 other mountains in this alpine backbone which peak at over 3,050 metres, and hundreds of others not far short of that, all making up the famous Southern Alps.

Mountain walks lead to alpine tarns, herb fields, spectacular glacier views and encounters with cheeky kea (mountain parrots).

Join the Glaciers Explorers Tour. The only tour of its kind in New Zealand and one of the only accessible glacial lakes containing icebergs in the world. Explore and learn about the ever-changing glacial landscape as you journey across the terminal lake with experienced guides. Icebergs of every shape and size periodically tear away from the face of the glacier into the rapidly growing lake.

Day 15 Pelennor Fields + Wanaka

Travel time Lake Tekapo to Wanaka – 2.5 hours 

The scenery remains just as spectacular as ever while you continue your tour south to Wanaka, an alpine town boasting panoramic views and a relaxing atmosphere. Along the way you can make a short trip to the filming location for Pelennor Fields, at Ben Ohau.

Explore Wanaka with your guide. You may want to visit Puzzling World, Wanaka’s illusional attraction. The National Toy and Transport Museum. Or the Wanaka Lavender Farm located just a few minutes from Wanaka, where you can experience 20 acres of beautiful lavender fields, farm animals & display gardens.

Test out your fishing skills at “Hook”, Wanaka’s very unique interactive Lake to Plate dining experience. Catch a Chinook salmon from the scenic spring-fed fishing lakes and then relax as the team prepares it for you. No experience is necessary and fishing equipment can be hired on the day.

Stay 2 nights in Wanaka.

Day 16 Wanaka + Mou Waho Cruise and Scenic Walk

Enjoy a luxury cruise on the crystal clear waters of Lake Wanaka to the remote Mou Waho Island nature reserve, home of the lake on an island in a lake. Mou Waho is a predator free Department of Conservation reserve and home to many native birds not seen on mainland NZ. Here you can see first-hand results of conservation efforts including the rare flightless Buff Weka (extinct on the mainland since 1920), the wood pigeon and the native falcon. A one hour guided bush walk is included which takes you up to a lake right on top of the island, with magnificent mountain and lake scenery in every direction. On returning to your luxury 55 foot catamaran, you can enjoy afternoon tea aboard as the guides share some of the fascinating history of this entrancing island (Duration 3.5 hours).

Enjoy Wanaka this afternoon. You may like to get an aerial perspective of the region and take a scenic flight. Stroll the streets and be inspired by galleries and stylish shops, or indulge in a delicious meal from the excellent selection of cafés and restaurants.

In the evening you have the chance to catch a film at Cinema Paradiso, Wanaka’s quirky local theatre (hint: the homemade cookies and ice cream at half time are delicious).

Day 17 Te Anau + Woodstone Farm & Fiordland Jet Combo

Travel time Wanaka to Te Anau – 3.5 hours

Your scenic tour will continue as you enjoy the drive over the Crown Range. Stop at the Cardrona Distillery along the way. Te Anau is the hub of Fiordland National Park and offers visitors a great base for visiting Milford Sound.

Step into rural Southland for a relaxed, hands-on farm experience. Meet friendly, hand-reared animals, snap photos, and feed them a handful of nuts. Hosted by a local farmer, enjoy an engaging chat about life on the land, New Zealand farming history, modern practices, animal welfare, and sustainability—honest insights with plenty of laughs. Watch skilled sheep shearing and dog muster demonstrations, then explore the scenic grounds, complete with a vineyard, lavender plots, and seasonal flowers.

This afternoon blast down the mighty Waiau River on a thrilling jet boat ride to breathtaking Lake Manapouri, where ancient beech forests meet towering glacial-carved mountains. Discover iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, explore pristine wilderness in Fiordland National Park, then hold tight for high-speed spins on the ride back.

Stay 1 night in Te Anau.

Day 18 Milford Sound Overnight Cruise

Travel time Te Anau to Milford Sound – 2.5 hours

This overnight cruise through the heart of Fiordland provides astonishing views and the ultimate Milford Sound experience!

The Milford Road (between Te Anau and Milford) is one of the finest alpine drives in the world.

You’ll start by departing from the Milford Sound wharf in the late afternoon before cruising through Milford Sound accompanied by your specialist nature guide. They’ll explain the history and geology of the area and be on hand to answer your questions.

This cruise style is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife – you’re bound to encounter seals and, if you’re lucky, maybe dolphins and penguins too.

The Milford Mariner then anchors in a sheltered cove. From here you can join the guide and explore in the vessel’s tender craft (small boat) or kayaks.

As evening falls, you’ll enjoy a delicious carvery buffet in the dining saloon – a feast prepared freshly by our on-board chef.

The next day you’ll be able to dig into a hearty breakfast before heading back out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) and exploring more of the fiord.

Day 19 Argonath + Misty Mountains + Ford of Bruinen + Queenstown

Travel time Milford Sound to Queenstown – 4.5 hours 

Journey around Queenstown’s Lake Wakatipu to reach Queenstown your final destination and Lord of the Rings Location Capital!

Visit Arrowtown prior to reaching Queenstown. Arrowtown is charming and quirky. The heart of its history is Buckingham Street, a procession of heritage buildings that stretches into a tree-lined avenue of tiny miner’s cottages. The buildings in this lovely precinct house shops, galleries, bars and restaurants. Your guide will show you the filming locations for the Argonath, the Misty Mountains, and the Ford of Bruinen.

Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.

Day 20 Dart River Jet Boat + Lord of the Rings Locations, Isengard & Ithilien Camp

Start your time in Queenstown on a high with a fantastic wilderness jet boat safari.

Your guide will drive you to the stunning township of Glenorchy, nestled at the head of Lake Wakatipu, stopping for views along the way. The jet boat safari continues past Glenorchy up the Dart River, which passes into the Paradise Valley (easily recognisable as Isengard). Stop for a nature walk through the forest used as Lothlorien, and marvel at the snow-capped mountain peaks and stunning turquoise river.

Afterwards, relax and explore Glenorchy with your guide. You have the option to enjoy a forest walk, visit further filming locations (including the Ithilien Camp, the location of the Battle of Amon Hen, and the setting for Beorn’s house from The Hobbit), or take a scenic drive to Kinloch Lodge for a coffee or lunch overlooking the wild reaches of Lake Wakatipu.

Day 21 Half Day In Middle Earth Tour + Queenstown

Step into Middle-earth on this unforgettable half-day adventure from Queenstown. Travel through dramatic landscapes to iconic filming locations including the Ford of Bruinen, Gladden Fields and the Pillars of the Kings, with expert guides bringing the magic of The Lord of the Rings to life through behind-the-scenes stories and authentic props.

From rugged canyons to sweeping river valleys, this immersive journey blends epic scenery, movie magic, and pure adventure into one legendary experience.

In the afternoon, you have the option to add on a helicopter flight to see remote filming locations tucked in spectacular mountain valleys and ridges throughout the region, or to enjoy a steamship cruise and high country farm dinner with the TSS Earnslaw.

Day 22 Depart Queenstown

Your guide will deliver you to Queenstown Airport for your departing flight.

Plan Lord of the Rings Tours of New Zealand

We help create unforgettable Middle-earth memories with private, personalised tours and spectacular filming destinations. Highlights of this 21-day tour include:

• Hobbiton Movie Set
• Weta Workshop
• Isengard
• Rivendell
• Edoras

As we plan your Lord of the Rings tour, we can tailor your itinerary to match your interest. Let us know what you want to see and do, and we will make it happen.

See More Lord of the Rings Tours of New Zealand

https://www.newzealandguidedtours.com/14-day-lord-of-the-rings-guided-tour/

https://www.newzealandguidedtours.com/10-day-middle-earth-guided-tour/

https://www.newzealandguidedtours.com/10-day-lord-rings-guided-tour/

https://www.newzealandguidedtours.com/7-day-lord-of-the-rings-guided-tour/

https://www.newzealandguidedtours.com/category/10-day-new-zealand-guided-tours