21 Day Lord of the Rings Private Guided Tour

Explore New Zealand with a private guided New Zealand LOTR tour personalised to suit your group. Our private guided tours are hosted by one of New Zealand’s leading tour guides. Your guide will meet your group at the airport and chauffeur your group to explore the destinations and activities included in your personalised New Zealand LOTR tour package. They will tend to your needs and share valuable local knowledge with your group to enhance your holiday experience. We can cater for groups between 1-40 people.

Our private guided New Zealand LOTR tour packages are flexible. In addition, all tours are booked to suit your group’s travel dates and interests.

This New Zealand LOTR tour includes numerous filming locations, from Hobbiton and Weta Workshop to Edoras and Isengard.

Read on for the full details of this 21 Day Private Guided New Zealand LOTR Tour.

21 Day Private Guided New Zealand LOTR Tour

Day 1 Arrive Auckland

Arrive in Auckland – the “City of Sails” is New Zealand’s largest city and is bordered by two stunning harbours. Your tour guide will meet you at the airport and take you to your Auckland City accommodation.

In the afternoon explore Auckland City with your tour guide. You might like to visit the Sky Tower, Auckland Zoo or Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World; venturing to one of Auckland’s stunning beaches or West Auckland wineries; or doing a spot of shopping.

Stay 1 night in Auckland.

Day 2 Bay of Islands

Travel time Auckland to Bay of Islands – 3.5 hours

Leave the city behind as your tour continues north to the Bay of Islands. This stunning stretch of coastline boasts secluded beaches, forested hills, and fantastic marine wildlife.

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 is 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, with cruises departing from Paihia wharf.

Stay 2 nights in Paihia, Bay of Islands.

Day 3 Discover the Bay Cruise + Bay of Islands

In the morning, board the premium Discover the Bay Cruise 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 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, while Okiato, near Russell, was New Zealand’s first capital. Russell is also home to the Duke of Marlborough, New Zealand’s first licensed hotel and pub, which has been refreshing rascals and reprobates since 1827! The pub is located on the waterfront in Russell—why not sit back and relax on the verandah overlooking the bay?

Day 4 Hamilton

Travel time Bay of Islands to Hamilton – 5 hours

Journey to Hamilton, New Zealand’s largest inland city, situated on the banks of the Waikato River. Hamilton’s warm and welcoming spirit, rich history and contrasting splendours ensure visitors are spoilt for choice for places to relax and enjoy. From magnificent parks and gardens to a thriving cultural precinct, the city offers a vibrant combination of fine dining, leisure and activity choices.

Explore attractions with your guide such as Raglan’s surf coast; relax at a beachside café and enjoy the scenery or get amongst it and learn to surf! Soak in the natural, silky mineral water that has made Te Aroha Mineral Pools famous for over 100 years. Meander through the Hamilton Gardens and discover paths delivering mysterious surprises; step from a peaceful Sung Dynasty Chinese Scholar’s garden into an Italian Renaissance Garden, before being enthralled by the grandeur of the Indian Char Bagh ‘four quartered’ Garden.

Stay in a Hobbit Hole New Zealand

Stay in a Hobbit Hole New Zealand. If staying in a Hobbit Hole, Hobbit Hole House or Hobbit Hotel is on your bucket list, we can arrange this for you. We often get asked whether you can rent a Hobbit Hole in New Zealand! There are two properties in New Zealand that offer this experience. Underhill offers hobbit-style accommodation hand crafted with rustic native timbers and ironwork and caters for couples. Huge timber doors open wide to overlook a picturesque pond and farmland beyond. Woodlyn Park offers a Hobbit Motel offering two motels beamed beneath a hill where sheep and donkey wander for grazing. From the exterior, these units look like a perfect Hobbit Hotel. In total, each motel can sleep up to 6 people making it ideal for families. Ask us to include your very own stay in a Hobbit Hole New Zealand!

Stay 1 night in Hamilton or stay in a Hobbit Hole New Zealand.

Day 5 Waitomo Glowworm Caves & Ruakuri Cave Combo > Rotorua

Travel time Hamilton to Waitomo Caves – 1 hour

Venture off the beaten track as your guide takes you on a scenic drive to the Waitomo Caves. The land is wilder around here, with limestone outcroppings emerging from farmland and densely forested hills rising all around, but the wildest landscape of all lies underground.

Witness the marvels of these vast caverns as you explore two fantastic caves – the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you will be dazzled by a galaxy of glowworms overhead and the Ruakuri Cave, home to a dizzying array of cave formations.

Travel time Waitomo Caves to Rotorua – 2 hours

Enjoy the scenic drive through rolling farmland to Rotorua, the geothermal capital of New Zealand. This diverse city will put on a display as you encounter dramatic geysers, bubbling mud pools, crystal-clear streams, magical forests and 18 beautiful fresh water lakes.

Stay 2 nights in Rotorua.

Day 6 Hobbiton Movie Set Tour + Rotorua

Travel time Rotorua to Matamata – 1 hour (each way)

Make your way to Matamata to discover the real Middle-Earth on the most picturesque private farmland. Near Matamata, visit the Hobbiton Movie Set from the Lord of the Rings films in a fascinating two-hour guided tour. The set has been completely rebuilt and will remain as it was seen in the films. There are spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges from the rolling green hills of the movie set, which is still a working sheep and beef farm. You can relax and soak up the unique atmosphere with a great cup of coffee or a light meal in The Shire’s Rest Café.

In the afternoon, tour the exciting geothermal attractions in Rotorua with your guide, visiting sulphur springs, mud pools, geysers, and sinter terraces. You have the option to add on dinner at the top of the Skyline Gondola or a Maori Cultural Experience including a Hangi dinner.

Day 7 Mount Doom Scenic Flight + 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. Visit Huka Falls with your guide and relax on the lakefront.

In the afternoon, lift 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. Flight Time is approximately 60 minutes.

Stay 1 night in Taupo.

Day 8 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, an impressive collection of volcanoes which stretches from the southern shore of Lake Taupo.

Continue south to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city. Your guide will help you become acquainted with this charming city – you could visit the Te Papa Museum, ride the Wellington Cable Car, or take in the views from the top of Mt Victoria. You may also like to visit Zealandia, located a 10-minute drive from downtown Wellington. Hidden in a suburban valley, this project aims to return a 225 hectare section of bush to its pre-human state. Take a walk and hear the songs of the flourishing native bird population.

Stay 2 nights in Wellington.

Day 9 Wellington Lord of the Rings Tour

Today, join a Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour! Follow in the footsteps of Hobbits, Dwarfs, Elves and Men. You will be collected from your Wellington accommodation and head for the hills. After admiring the view from the top of Mt Victoria you head into the “Outer Shire” for your first stop the Hobbit’s hideaway.

Then it’s onto the Weta Cave in Miramar where you tour the museum, before viewing a short documentary showing the film making exploits of Peter Jackson and his remarkable team. This is followed up with a fascinating ”Window into the Workshop” exhibition, showing film props and weaponary with the artists themselves describing how the artefacts were created. You will have lunch locally at a seaside café, then head north into the Hutt Valley following the River Anduin and taking in the sights of Helms Deep, before stopping at the Gardens of Isengard for afternoon tea. The final destination is Rivendell and the Legolas tree before returning to Wellywood at 4.30 pm.

In the evening enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants that Wellington has to offer.

Day 10 Wellington to Picton Ferry + Marlborough Wine Region Tour > Kaikoura

Sailing time Wellington to Picton – 3.5 hours
Travel time Picton to Kaikoura – 2.5 hours

It’s all about the journey today as you board the Cook Strait Ferry, which will transport you on a scenic cruise to Picton. Upon reaching the South Island, your guide will take you on a scenic drive through the Marlborough wine region. Along the way, you have the option to stop at a winery (or two!) for samples of the award-winning wines.

Recognised internationally for its distinctive, herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest winemaking region, home to about 65 wineries, 290 grape growers, and over 4,000 hectares planted in grapes – mainly Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer.

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

The impressive scenery of the coastal ranges accompanies your journey from Kaikoura to Christchurch today.

Christchurch is a vibrant, energetic city where urban regeneration, creativity, and innovation thrive. Picture amazing street art, innovative projects, a booming hospitality scene and state-of-the-art architecture that is changing the way the city looks, feels and functions – all the while staying true to its heritage and traditional English feel.

Explore Christchurch with your guide, options include; experiencing Christchurch Tramway, Gondola, Botanic Gardens, Punting on the Avon River, visiting the International Antarctic Centre, venturing to Sumner Beach or dining and shopping at the Riverside Market.

Stay 2 nights in Christchurch.

Day 12 Lord of the Rings Edoras Tour + Christchurch

Setting out from Christchurch, you will travel via four-wheel drive to the remote and beautiful Mt Potts high country station. Here, peaceful Mt Sunday was transformed into Edoras, home to the Riders of Rohan in the Lord of the Rings film trilogy.

On your guided walk you’ll learn how the set was built on top of sheer cliffs, see exclusive photos from the film set’s construction, and enjoy the awe-inspiring 360-degree views from the summit (just like Eowyn did in the movies!). As you take in the pristine beauty and breathe in the crisp mountain air, you’ll understand why the actors and crew fell in love with this stunning location.

During your tour you’ll also see the famed Misty Mountains and the area which formed the backdrop to the terrifying battle of Helm’s Deep, while enjoying informative and entertaining commentary from your local guide.

Day 13 Mount Cook Village + Tasman Glacier

Travel time Christchurch to Mt Cook Village – 4.5 hours

Depart Christchurch and travel south to Mount Cook. This far-reaching road adventure takes you from sea level to the mountains. You will begin with the flat green tranquillity of the Canterbury Plains, but it won’t be long before you climb through the tussocky wilds towards the Southern Alps. You will pass an amazing smoky turquoise lake, which is called Lake Tekapo.

Take a break in Lake Tekapo if you wish and visit the most photographed church in New Zealand – the famous Church of the Good Shepherd. Other attractions in Lake Tekapo include the spa complex Tekapo Springs and of course the world-famous Mt John Observatory. Continue your travels across the barren Mackenzie Country to reach Mt Cook Village.

Your guide will take you to a viewpoint over Tasman Glacier, lying at the base of the spectacular Tasman Valley.

Stay 1 night in Mt Cook Village.

Day 14 Wanaka

Travel time Mt Cook Village to Wanaka – 3 hours 

The scenery remains just as spectacular as ever while you continue your tour south to Wanaka. This alpine town boasts panoramic views and a relaxing atmosphere. Along the way, your guide will take you to sample the fresh fruit from the orchards of Cromwell.

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.

Stroll the streets and be inspired by galleries and stylish shops, visit ‘That Wanaka Tree’ for the perfect photo, or enjoy one of the many famous walking tracks such as Mt Iron.

Stay 1 night in Wanaka.

Day 15 Te Anau

Travel time Wanaka to Te Anau – 3.5 hours

Your scenic tour will continue as you enjoy the drive over the Crown Range to Queenstown. Your guide will stop along the way for photos at fantastic viewing points.

Visit Arrowtown with your guide on your way through Queenstown, and explore the quaint historic mining settlement. If there are any Lord of the Rings fans in the group, your guide will show you the filming locations for Minas Tirith, Argonath, the Misty Mountains, and the Ford of Bruinen.

In the afternoon, make your way past Lake Wakatipu on your way to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Nestled on the edge of a lake, the picturesque township of Te Anau is the main visitor base for the glacier-carved wilderness that is Fiordland National Park. Restaurants are plentiful and give visitors the opportunity to sample delicious local far like venison, lobster and seafood.

Stay 2 nights in Te Anau.

Day 16 Milford Sound Cruise + Te Anau

Enjoy a scenic coach journey through heartland New Zealand to reach Milford Sound. The Milford Road (between Te Anau and Milford) is one of the finest alpine drives in the world. The scenery is exceptional, ranging from broad grassy flats, dense rainforest, and towering mountains through to glacial lakes and alpine herb fields. No other road in Fiordland offers such a diverse glimpse into New Zealand’s alpine zone. The schedule includes plenty of time for short nature walks and photo opportunities along the way.

When you take a boat trip with Cruise Milford, you’ll be getting close to New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks, massive rock faces rising for hundreds of metres out of the sea and see waterfalls cascade from ancient rainforest high in the mountains.

With Cruise Milford, you’ll be travelling on smaller boats, which are less crowded and where their local crew offer an informative and personal tour of Milford Sound. The crew really love showing visitors this amazing place.

Day 17 The Catlins > Dunedin

Travel time Te Anau to Dunedin via the Catlins – 5 hours 

Along the way to Dunedin, your guide will take you on a tour of the remote Catlins coast, where you will find pounding waterfalls, an iconic lighthouse at Nugget Point, lush native bush, a petrified forest, and maybe even penguins and dolphins! Stop for a number of nature walks and photo opportunities along the way, and soak in the wild natural beauty.

Continue the scenic drive and go through to the coast along Brighton, Waldronville and Tunnel Beach. You will end up at Saint Clair Beach in Dunedin, which may be the perfect spot for a late lunch.

In the evening, relax in Dunedin, where you will find a number of striking historic buildings in the compact town centre.

Stay 2 nights in Dunedin.

Day 18 Larnach Castle

Today, venture to Larnach Castle which is situated on the spectacular Otago Peninsula. This castle was built by William Larnach in 1871 offering scandalous and tragic stories, incredible tower views and a exquisite Victorian interiors complete this magical castle. 

The gardens at Larnach Castle have been rated by the New Zealand Gardens Trust as a Garden of International Significance. This garden makes up 7 acres of the grounds and with that in mind is well worth exploring! Enjoy the sheer beauty that has been put into this magical venue!

In the afternoon, your guide will show you around Dunedin – you have the option to visit the Speight’s Brewery, or the Otago Peninsula.

Day 19 Queenstown – The Adventure Capital of New Zealand!

Travel time Dunedin to Queenstown – 4 hours 

Your adventure continues through the ever-changing hills of Central Otago, past bluffs and gorges, farmland and vineyards, to reach Queenstown.

Tour Queenstown with your guide in the afternoon, with the option to ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu. At the top, you may like to take a thrilling ride on the Skyline Luge. The purpose-built Luge carts put you in complete control as you take on over 800 metres of banked corners, tunnels and dippers. Once you’ve conquered the course, hop on the chairlift and do it all again and again. Gentle and leisurely or steep and adventurous, you’ll be hooked. Once is never enough.

Relax and explore the city independently in the evening, or add on a cruise and high country dinner with the TSS Earnslaw.

Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.

Day 20 Dart River Jet Boat Safari + Isengard

Explore the Lord of the Rings locations around Queenstown with your guide today on an excursion to the stunning Glenorchy region, nestled at the head of Lake Wakatipu.

From there, join a Jet Boat Safari which continues past Glenorchy up the Dart River, passing 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 Queenstown Lord of the Rings Tour

Visit the historic mining settlement of Arrowtown and explore the Lord of the Rings locations around Queenstown with your guide today on a relaxing scenic drive. Several locations you’ll see are the Argonath (the Pillars of the Kings), the Misty Mountains, the Ford of Bruinen, and Deer Park Heights (where the Battle of the Wargs and the Refugees of Rohan were filmed).

Continue your quest for adventure and choose from any adventure activity on offer in Queenstown; bungy jumping, skydiving, paragliding, quad biking, zip lining, heli flights, 4WD off-roading, you name it we can book it. If you’re looking for a slightly slower pace there’s plenty of recreational activities like the Kiwi Birdlife Park, or spa and wellness options to help you truly feel worlds away.

Enjoy your last evening in Queenstown and celebrate a fantastic New Zealand Guided Tour!

Day 22 Depart Queenstown

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

Plan a New Zealand LOTR Tour

Perfect for fans of the Lord of the Rings films, this New Zealand LOTR Tour offers a comprehensive Middle Earth experience. Visit easily recognisable filming locations on both islands, plus tour the Hobbiton Movie Set and Weta Workshop.

For additional options for your New Zealand LOTR tour, you may wish to browse the selection offered by our New Zealand Guided Tours brand.

Contact New Zealand Travel Organiser today to begin planning your privately guided tour.