21 Day Epic Lord Of The Rings Motorhome Adventure

21
Days

Experience Middle-earth and the best sites from the LOTR trilogy in this epic New Zealand road trip.

designed by
Shaun Jeffers
Self-Guided Trip

The Story

An epic road trip adventure that will transport you to the breathtaking landscapes that served as the backdrop for The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Crafted in collaboration with Shaun Jeffers, the renowned official photographer of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, this trip promises to awaken your inner adventurer.

Beginning your adventure in Auckland and concluding in Christchurch, this self-drive adventure will lead you to unforgettable destinations, including a visit to the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, a hike to the fabled land of Mordor, exploration of Hairy Feet and the legendary Weta Workshop, an award-winning film effects company where the movie's magic came to life. Then, you'll set sail on a ferry to the South Island, where the stunning Abel Tasman National Park awaits. As you continue your journey southward, you'll be captivated by iconic locations like Edoras, the majestic Anduin River, and the regal Gondor.

Package Inclusions:

  • 21-day Motorhome hire
  • Hairy Feet Trollshaw Forest Tour
  • Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tour
  • Tamaki Māori - Evening experience
  • Rotorua Global Pass
  • Tongariro Alpine Crossing - Shuttle Bus
  • Full Experience + Kai (Lunch) - Weta Workshop
  • Blueridge Interislander Ferry
  • Mt Cook sea plane and heli experience
  • Lake Tekapo Hot Springs - public pools
  • Te Anau Glowworm Experience
  • Milford Sound Nature Cruise
  • Milford Sound Campervan Site
  • Camp Glenorchy Eco Campervan site
  • Jet boat Shotover river (shotoverjet)
  • Franz Josef Glacier Hot pools
  • Access to Digital Travel Guide with Free Activities, Hikes and Food Recommendations


This road trip is customisable, allowing you to tailor the adventure to your preferences.

Reserve your trip

Distance

3,650 km

(

)

21

Days,

20

Nights

Travel By

Motorhome

Sleep

Motorhome

Price From

$4,170 AUD

Questions? Text or call us

+61 402 552 918

Click Map To Enlarge
STORYTELLER

Shaun Jeffers

Why Shaun's Trip?

Lord of the Rings Magic: Shaun Jeffers, an award-winning photographer, is your gateway to Middle-earth. With an expert understanding of the Lord of the Rings film locations in New Zealand, his journey will transport you into the iconic landscapes that served as the backdrop for this beloved film trilogy. You'll have the unique opportunity to step into scenes from the movies, capturing your own epic moments in the heart of Middle-earth.

Captivating Photography: Shaun possesses a unique skill for capturing the heart and soul of New Zealand's landscapes. With access to his road trip, you'll have the opportunity to visit his favourite photography locations and follow in the footsteps of of a masterful photographer. Shaun's local tips will elevate your travel experience, ensuring you return home with breathtaking photos that vividly portray the magic of New Zealand.

Exclusive Access to Hidden Wonders: As a New Zealand local, Shaun possesses an insider's knowledge of New Zealand's hidden gems. His journey takes you off the beaten path, revealing lesser-known destinations that offer incredible photographic opportunities. By choosing Shaun's trip, you'll explore the uncharted beauty of New Zealand, capturing unique and memorable moments that few others have the privilege to experience.

Day by Day

Itinerary

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Experience

"I would rather be a hobbit in New Zealand than a king anywhere else."
- Peter Jackson
Tasmania // Aotearoa
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FAQ

Questions?

What's included?
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Motorhome hire options
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Optional extras
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Can I personalise this trip?
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Which style of trip is right for me?
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Are your trips family friendly?
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REVIEWS

What Our Travellers Say

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5 Star

"Thank you for your help in putting together our trip to the Northern Territory. Everyone agreed that it was the best family holiday we'd ever had and - even better - everyone nominated something different as 'the best thing'."

Elizabeth
Elizabeth
Australia
5 Star

"The trip with Airguides was magic. Paul was our kind and patient guide, Mark Fitz was our talented and positive photographer/storyteller. It was a perfect mix of activity and relaxation and I’m already planning my next Airguides trip."

Lisa Thomas
Lisa Thomas
Australia
5 Star

"I recently visited Lady Musgrave Island with Airguides. They have a unique and meaningful approach to travel and travelling with and learning from a world-class photographer, who was on the trip, was incredible."

Katie
Katie
Australia
5 Star

"I cannot say enough amazing things about Airguides and the amazing honeymoon they planned for us. We began our trip planning by being overwhelmed with travel blogs, not knowing what was actually the best plan for us."

Ashley Ferrel
Ashley Ferrel
Australia
5 Star

“Just had an amazing trip to Heron Island organised by the Airguides team. Perfect balance of activity and relaxation, they made it so easy. Can't wait until I can do another trip!“

James Crowley
James Crowley
Australia
5 Star

“ We recently organised our trip to Heron Island with Bibi and Paul as a last minute getaway. Seamlessly dealt with and an added bonus of having a world-class photographer/ free-diver as our story teller. The trip has only whet our appetite for more positive and relaxing experiences with the Airguides team- Awesome “

Damon Faint
Damon Faint
Australia
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21 Day Epic Lord Of The Rings Motorhome Adventure

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Trip Summary

An epic road trip adventure that will transport you to the breathtaking landscapes that served as the backdrop for The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Crafted in collaboration with Shaun Jeffers, the renowned official photographer of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, this trip promises to awaken your inner adventurer.

Beginning your adventure in Auckland and concluding in Christchurch, this self-drive adventure will lead you to unforgettable destinations, including a visit to the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, a hike to the fabled land of Mordor, exploration of Hairy Feet and the legendary Weta Workshop, an award-winning film effects company where the movie's magic came to life. Then, you'll set sail on a ferry to the South Island, where the stunning Abel Tasman National Park awaits. As you continue your journey southward, you'll be captivated by iconic locations like Edoras, the majestic Anduin River, and the regal Gondor.

Package Inclusions:

  • 21-day Motorhome hire
  • Hairy Feet Trollshaw Forest Tour
  • Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tour
  • Tamaki Māori - Evening experience
  • Rotorua Global Pass
  • Tongariro Alpine Crossing - Shuttle Bus
  • Full Experience + Kai (Lunch) - Weta Workshop
  • Blueridge Interislander Ferry
  • Mt Cook sea plane and heli experience
  • Lake Tekapo Hot Springs - public pools
  • Te Anau Glowworm Experience
  • Milford Sound Nature Cruise
  • Milford Sound Campervan Site
  • Camp Glenorchy Eco Campervan site
  • Jet boat Shotover river (shotoverjet)
  • Franz Josef Glacier Hot pools
  • Access to Digital Travel Guide with Free Activities, Hikes and Food Recommendations


This road trip is customisable, allowing you to tailor the adventure to your preferences.

$4,170 AUD
Enquire
Storyteller

Shaun Jeffers

Shaun Jeffers is an award-winning photographer from Auckland who captures the magic of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, delighting Lord of the Rings fans with his stunning imagery. His expertise in commercial tourism and landscape photography earned him the prestigious title of ‘New Zealand Geographic Landscape Photographer of the Year.’ Despite being originally from England, Shaun has an exceptional knowledge of New Zealand and is a masterful storyteller who brings fictional worlds to life through his lens. With a passion for adventure, his trips are full of excitement and discovery, just like him!
What's included

Included

  • 21-day Motorhome hire
  • Hairy Feet Trollshaw Forest Tour
  • Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tour
  • Tamaki Māori - Evening experience
  • Rotorua Global Pass
  • Tongariro Alpine Crossing - Shuttle Bus
  • Full Experience + Kai (Lunch) - Weta Workshop
  • Blueridge Interislander Ferry
  • Mt Cook sea plane and heli experience
  • Lake Tekapo Hot Springs - public pools
  • Te Anau Glowworm Experience
  • Milford Sound Nature Cruise
  • Milford Sound Campervan Site
  • Camp Glenorchy Eco Campervan site
  • Jet boat Shotover river (shotoverjet)
  • Franz Josef Glacier Hot pools
  • Access to Travel Guide with Free Activities, Hikes and Food Recommendations

Excluded

  • International or internal flights unless specified
  • Airport transfers, taxes and excess baggage charges unless specified
  • Meals other than those specified
  • Visa and passport fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional activities and all personal expenses.
itinerary

DAY 1

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Auckland to Waitamo

Travel time: 2 hr 45 mins
Distance
: 220 km

Pick up your campervan and make your way to Waitomo for a tour to Hairy Feet and Trollshaw forest . Visit the stunning farm location at Mangaotaki Rocks Piopio, near Waitomo, where the troll and campfire scenes in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey were filmed. Towering limestone cliffs, massive rock formations and a primeval forest on the Denize family farm became the location for Staddle Farm and Trollshaws.

DAY 2

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Waitomo to Rotorua

Travel time: 2 hr 15 mins
Distance
: 175 km

Before heading to Rotorua, you will experience the famous Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tour! Rotorua is a dream photography location. Known as the geothermic capital of New Zealand, you’ll have plenty of options to explore. Head out to the magical Redwoods Forest before experiencing a cultural show and dinner at the traditional Tamaki Māori Village.

DAY 3

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Rotorua

On your second day in Rotorua, you are armed with the Diamond Pass. This gives you access to Te Puia, Skyline Rotorua Gondola, Agrodome, Polynesian Spa and a choice of either Rainbow Springs or Paradise Valley Springs. We highly recommend that you don’t miss the mighty Te Puia!

DAY 4

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Rotorua to Taupo 

Travel time: 1 hr
Distance
: 80 km

Make your way to Taupo to visit Gollum’s Pool (Tawhai Falls), where the famous scene of The Lord of the Rings movie was filmed.  Another must-see is the Huka Falls. This incredible spectacle is the most-visited natural attraction in New Zealand – it’s hard to tear your gaze away from the endless, mesmerising torrent.

Day 5

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Taupo 

Today, you get to experience Mordor! Tongariro Alpine Crossing is the filming location of Mordor and also known as the country’s best day walk. This 19-km hike through landscape made famous in The Lord of the Rings trilogy is well worth the effort. A shuttle bus from Taupo will take you to the start of the hike. Shorter walks to Mordor are also available. 

DAY 6

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Taupo to Wellington

Travel time: 5hrs

Distance: 400 km

On your way to Peter Jackson's home town of Wellington, you come across another Lord of the Rings film location, the Putangirua Pinnacles. Doubled as the Dimholt Road in The Return of the King, don’t miss your chance to walk the Paths of the Death! Then it’s time to visit Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. This vibrant city is full of trendy restaurants, cafes and breweries and has a great live music scene.  

DAY 6

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Taupo to Wellington

Travel time: 5hrs

Distance: 400 km

On your way to Peter Jackson's home town of Wellington, you come across another Lord of the Rings film location, the Putangirua Pinnacles. Doubled as the Dimholt Road in The Return of the King, don’t miss your chance to walk the Paths of the Death! Then it’s time to visit Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. This vibrant city is full of trendy restaurants, cafes and breweries and has a great live music scene.  

DAY 7

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Wellington

Embark on a journey through Wellington's award-winning Weta Studio & Workshop. Immerse yourself in blockbuster behind-the-scenes magic from Lord of the Rings, Hobbiton and countless other Hollywood blockbusters. Enjoy a 5-hour experience with 2 film effects tours, a 2-course lunch and drink on the waterfront. You will also receive a souvenir to remember your Weta experience.

DAY 8

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Wellington to Kaikoura

Travel time: 6 hrs (including ferry)

Distance: 258 km

Take the morning ferry from Wellington to Picton via the incredible Marlborough Sounds, before driving down to Kaikoura. Depending on the time of year, you have the option to go whale watching, swimming with dolphins or meeting Kaikoura’s furriest residents, the wild New Zealand Fur Seal. 

DAY 9

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Kaikoura to Methven

Travel time: 3 hrs 30 mins
Distance
: 270 km

Methven is a snow sports town in winter and has many outdoor adventure activities all year round. It’s a great little town to stop for the night. Before you arrive in Methven, you have the chance to visit Edoras, another The Lord of the Rings location. Go for a walk up the hill and look out over the stunning views that the citizens of Rohan were privy to.

DAY 10

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Methven to Mt Cook Village

Travel time: 5 hr
Distance
: 370 km

Make your way to Mt Cook Village and stop at Lake Tekapo along the way. The colour of the water will blow your mind, together with the imposing Mt Cook in the background. Take a dip in the Tekapo hot springs before finishing your day in Mt Cook Village. 

DAY 11

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Mt Cook Village

Mt Cook National Park makes you feel like you’re living in Middle-earth. Without a doubt the best way to experience the raw power off this landscape is onboard a ski plane and a helicopter! Top off this unforgettable experience with a snow landing on the Tasman Glacier.

DAY 12

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Mt Cook Village to Dunedin

Travel time: 3 hrs 45 mins
Distance
: 320 km

Leave Mt Cook behind and make your way towards the coast. Along the way, you will come past Gondor and relive the Battle of the Pelennor Fields as you wander through the grassy plains of Twizel and the Mackenzie country.

Trip Images
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frequently asked questions

Which style of trip is right for me?

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We cater to diverse travel preferences! Whether you're a family, a couple, or a solo traveler, we offer a variety of trips to suit your needs. While we strive to create inclusive experiences that are enjoyable for most, some trips may require more physical activity than others. Contact us to receive personalised assistance in finding your dream adventure.

Are your trips family friendly?

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Most of our self-guided trips are designed with families in mind and can be personalised to suit children of all ages.

How do I pay for my trip?

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Once we receive your inquiry, we'll send you a personalised itinerary and quote. When you're happy with the trip plan, a deposit is required to confirm your booking. Full payment must be received no later than 60 days before your arrival at the destination.

Do I get any free time during the trip?

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Absolutely! Our aim is to assist you in crafting your own unique adventure, and that includes making time for independent exploration. While we're happy to provide recommendations and guidance, we also understand that some of the most memorable moments during a trip come from unplanned and spontaneous experiences.

Can you help with flights?

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For assistance in booking your flights or the best routes to take, please get in touch and we're more than happy to assist!

Can I speak to someone about this trip?

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We'd love to chat with you about this trip and answer any questions you have! Just give our friendly team a call at (+61) 0402 552 918. When you call, you'll talk to a real person from Airguides who will be happy to help you. We're all about personal service, so we'll be with you every step of the way, from planning your trip to getting you home safe and sound!

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