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
Experience Middle-earth and the best sites from the LOTR trilogy in this epic New Zealand road trip.
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.
This road trip is customisable, allowing you to tailor the adventure to your preferences.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
There is plenty of time to relax in this boutique city. Home to the steepest street in the world, spend the day exploring Dunedin’s historical buildings and the surrounding beaches. If you’re feeling adventurous, head down to Nugget Point Lighthouse to watch the sunrise.
Travel time: 3 hrs 20 mins
Distance: 290 kms
After leaving Dunedin, head towards the mountainous West Coast of the South Island. Te Anau is known as the ‘Gateway to Fiordland’, being the closest town to Milford Sound, and a beautiful place to stop and explore. You will join a tour to experience a mysterious underground world of rushing water before drifting in silent darkness beneath the luminous shimmer of hundreds of glowworms.
Travel time: 2 hrs
Distance: 120 km
While the world famous Milford Sound needs no introduction, the drive to Milford Sound is an adventure in itself. Travel through the mountain range via the Homer Tunnel for spectacular views. Park the campervan at your campsite, amidst the beauty of the area, and jump aboard a ship to experience the mighty Milford Sounds. This Nature Cruise will guide you through the Fjords via incredible scenery.
Travel time: 4 hrs 40 mins
Distance: 350 kms
This day involves one of the most incredible driving of this trip (and that’s saying something!). Head back through the Homer Tunnel, drive through Queenstown and along the road to Glenorchy. There are plenty of spectacular photo opportunities along the way. After checking in at the Camp Glenorchy Eco Retreat, there is time to discover Isengard, the hidden gem where Gandalf rode to meet Saruman.
Travel time: 45 mins
Distance: 60 km
Queenstown is the extreme sports capital of New Zealand. Experience the thrill of a gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak before enjoying 3 luge rides back down the mountain. In the afternoon, you have time to explore Queenstown. Make sure you don’t miss the famous Fergburger!
Travel time: 1 hrs
Distance: 65 km
Start the day with a shot of adrenaline! Wake up early for a Jet Boat experience down the Shotover River, before making the short drive to Wanaka. Stop for a photograph with the most photographed tree in New Zealand, the Wanaka Tree, and enjoy all that Wanaka has to offer, including some of New Zealand’s best hikes and wineries.
Travel time: 3 hrs 45 mins
Distance: 290 km
Time to experience the West Coast. From Wanaka, make your way to the incredible Haast Pass. It will blow your mind. Stop at the Blue Pools, before making your way up to Franz Josef Glacier. End the day on a high note with a soak in the hot springs.
Travel time: 3 hrs
Distance: 230 km
After leaving Franz Josef Glacier, take the time to stop at Lake Matheson to marvel at the perfect reflections of the lake with surrounding mountains. Visit Hokitika Gorge, which must be seen to be believed! You will spend the night in Arthur’s Pass, home of the stunning Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall.
Travel time: 2 hrs
Distance: 150 kms
On your final day, you get to drive on one of the most famous roads in New Zealand. Stop at Castle Hill where The Chronicles of Narnia was filmed. Arrive back in Christchurch in the afternoon to drop off your motorhome.
"I would rather be a hobbit in New Zealand than a king anywhere else."
"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'."
"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."
"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."
"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."
“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!“
“ 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 “
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.
This road trip is customisable, allowing you to tailor the adventure to your preferences.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Most of our self-guided trips are designed with families in mind and can be personalised to suit children of all ages.
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.
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.
For assistance in booking your flights or the best routes to take, please get in touch and we're more than happy to assist!
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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