From the hills of Hobbiton, to the expansive wastes of Mordor, go on a journey through Middle Earth
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
What's included
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- All tours mentioned in the itinerary
- Private transfers
- An expert local guide
- Full support from your Travel Concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
Your family can follow in the footsteps of Bilbo, Frodo and their companions as you explore New Zealand and the breathtaking locations that doubled for some of the most iconic places in Middle Earth in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.
Your epic journey begins in Queenstown with an exhilarating helicopter trip over some of the breath-taking scenery featured in the film trilogy. Touch down in some of the hard-to-reach spots and get a closer look at some of the props used on set. While in the region, you will also have the chance to explore some of the rugged terrain near Walter Peak on an electric trail bike and learn more about your stunning surroundings. Then a wilderness tour will introduce you to even more of New Zealand’s spectacular scenery, and more hidden film locations.
From Queenstown, you’ll fly to Wellington where a half-day tour will allow you to explore some of the most fascinating filming locations used for the Lord of the Rings films in the region. You’ll discover how the scenery was transformed into Middle Earth. From the Great River Anduin to the Gardens of Isengard and Helm’s Deep and beyond, it’s a wonderful way to relive your favourite big screen moments. And a tour of the Weta Studios just adds an extra layer of excitement for any film lover. You’ll see some of the props, weapons and armour that were created specifically for the Tolkien adaptations, as well as some of Peter Jackson’s other films.
Finally, you’ll head to Taupo where you’ll get to stroll along the winding pathways of the delightfully quaint Hobbiton near Matamata. Admire views of the imposing Mount Doom or Mount Ruapehu, and walk to the edge of an active crater lake. Your family will never watch the Lord of the Rings film the same way again, having had the opportunity to explore so much of Middle Earth yourselves.
Example trip itinerary
Queenstown
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Queenstown
Accommodation in Queenstown
Queenstown and Wanaka
Overview
With beautiful lake and alpine views, this luxury hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu is just a short stroll from the town centre of Queenstown. It is named after the founder of Queenstown, William Gilbert Rees, who established the tradition of hospitality in the town almost 150 years ago.
The spacious and luxurious accommodation options include 60 rooms and 90 apartments. In each of them you can relax on a private balcony overlooking Lake Wakatipu and out towards the Remarkable Mountain range.
At True South Dining Room the seasonal menu is created using the freshest ingredients from suppliers in Central Otago and is tweaked according to what is available. The chef’s team puts together creative dishes with a focus on flavour. Enjoy fine wines from around the world in the Bordeau Lounge Bar as you catch up with your fellow guests in front of the fire.
→ Find out moreQueenstown and Wanaka
Overview
Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, The Spire Hotel offers award-winning luxury combining genuine hospitality, serenity and style.
Ten spacious suites boast fine contemporary furnishings and design elements, large balconies and roomy bathrooms.
Enjoy outstanding local produce prepared with a Mediterranean twist at the in-house bar and restaurant No5 Church Lane. Choose from a variety of Otago and international wines, and signature cocktails. Featuring work by local artists and contemporary furnishings, the restaurant offers a chic yet casual place to relax.
The five-star hotel is located within walking distance of the city’s vibrant cultural scene. There are plenty of shops and cafes to explore, as well as an active nightlife and a variety of lake and mountain activities to make your stay a memorable one.
→ Find out moreQueenstown and Wanaka
Overview
With a history intertwined with the region’s gold rush, the building of Eichardt’s Private Hotel carries with it the understated and classic elegance of a bygone era. With sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu’s emerald blue waters and eminent mountain peaks, it is a gateway to Queenstown and the untouched wilderness beyond.
Choose from Eichardt’s lake view or mountain view suites, or the one- or two-bedroom apartments. For more privacy, or for those looking for a group getaway or family foray, there is the stand-alone three-bed Eichardt’s Residence which has a spacious kitchen, private dining area and sweeping balconies.
The hotel bar has been considered a town favourite since 1867, providing the perfect environment in which friends and colleagues can sit down for a refreshing cocktail or a refined vintage from the famed Otago wine region. For those feeling peckish, there are comprehensive tapas menus to suit every palate, with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. The bar also serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a cosy dining area with a fireplace.
From the hotel you can treat yourself to an extensive range of in-room spa treatments provided by a local spa, wander down to the lake edge or head into the heart of the action in bustling Queenstown.
→ Find out moreQueenstown and Wanaka
Overview
Sat on the shores of the deep Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge is a tranquil haven of serene blue waters and sweeping mountain landscapes. Snow-capped peaks reach towards the sky, providing a backdrop like no other to this incredible luxury establishment.
Modern, bright and with plenty of room, the 16 suites have been styled by the highly celebrated designer Virginia Fisher. Four suites are found in the main lodge section while others have been built in a native forest with alpine panoramas. All have their own private balcony, lounge area and decadent bathroom, not to mention the cosy fireplace. The sizeable Owner’s Cottage is an idyllic getaway for larger groups or families.
Boasting a menu that changes constantly with the availability of seasonal produce, the kitchen at Matakauri Lodge focuses on a clean and fresh experience for the palate. There are a number of settings in which to savour this modern New Zealand cuisine, from the privacy of your own patio to the property’s spacious courtyards.
Located near great pine thickets, the spa provides an exclusive space where you can rejuvenate and reinvigorate your body with completely personalised treatments. Fall in love with the heated pool, let off some steam in the sauna or enjoy a leisurely time in the hot tub.
Whether you arrive to the long, warm days of summer or to a winter wonderland of snow, there is always so much to do during your stay at Matakauri. Walks and hikes dominate the area, as do scenic horse riding trails and wine tours. Avid golfers will rejoice to know a PGA-rated course is nearby; The Hills is surely one of the most stunning and gorgeously isolated round of 18 you can play anywhere in the world.
→ Find out moreQueenstown and Wanaka
Overview
Set against a gorgeous mountain background among lush parkland, the Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel is an upmarket, eco-friendly hotel.
With a fresh and modern aesthetic, all 22 rooms and suites are furnished with a discerning eye. Stylish and modern, the Gondola rooms enjoy a private outdoor area while those in the spacious Remarkable rooms and suites can lounge on balconies, savouring beautiful views of the Remarkables mountain range.
The Tower Suite, operating as a private penthouse, is spread across two levels and features a kitchen, lounge and dining area enjoys panoramic views from the verandah and private garden. There is also a two-bedroom tower suite with a kitchen, lounge and dining area which opens onto a balcony.
The guest lounge is the perfect place to enjoy complimentary pre-dinner drinks and canapes, before sitting down to enjoy a meal made using ingredients grown in the hotel’s herb and vegetable garden.
→ Find out moreQueenstown and Wanaka
Overview
A relic of stately Victorian elegance, Hulbert House is a luxury villa that operates as one of Queenstown’s oldest residences. Built in 1888, this boutique hotel offers historic charm with contemporary comforts and modern amenities.
Transformed by an award-winning designer, the interiors are vibrant while paying tribute to the antiquity of the property. The six luxury suites are all individually designed, carrying through a feeling of old-world opulence with extravagant, bold and fresh furnishing. Each has views over either Lake Wakatipu, Skyline Hill or the well-kept gardens.
A scrumptious breakfast of fresh and delicious ingredients waits those early morning risers, while the kitchen can provide tasty snacks throughout the day. Ideally placed, Hulbert House is found in close proximity to many of the attractions of Queenstown, with popular cafes, restaurants and shops all within walking distance. It is also only 450m from the banks of the large Lake Wakatipu and just a little further from the Skyline Gondola and Luge.
→ Find out moreFrom the towering alpine ranges that envelop Queenstown, to its laidback lakeside sister Wanaka, this is easily one of the most spectacular regions of the country. Seek out one of the endless thrills on offer here from skiing, white water rafting, canyon swinging, jet boating, mountain biking and bungy jumping, or slow down to the cosmopolitan pace of life in Queenstown and cool Wanaka and you’ll discover its flourishing arts scene, excellent vineyards, fine dining and quiet lakeside shores where you can take in the incredible scenery.
Experience the landscape of Queenstown and the Southern Alps from the air. Every moment is breath-taking - every direction a Lord of the Rings location. Touch down in hard to reach locations and fly over otherwise inaccessible terrain, before the land-based second half of the day where you'll get up and close at a final location getting hands on time with weapons and costumes used in the film.
Explore the rugged country terrain at Walter Peak on an electric trail bike. Start by boarding the historic TSS Earnslaw vintage steamship for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak, where you’ll meet your guide who will go through everything you need to know about the bikes.
This unique experience is exciting and provides a fun, low-impact activity in peaceful and stunning surroundings. You will be guided through gentle rolling farmland, then climb 'The Hill' and take in the views of the Colonel's Homestead and beautiful Lake Wakatipu below. Then ride the undulating tracks towards the lakeside peninsula at Beach Point reserve. Here there is a stop for refreshments and time for you to learn about the history of Walter Peak and high country farming. Your guide will also update you on the conservation efforts to remove the invasive wilding pine trees, replacing them with pockets of native plant and bush.
Return back to the farm after riding the flat natural terraces overlooking the lake, soaking in the stunning alpine scenery. There's time to visit the gift shop and take photos before boarding the TSS Earnslaw for your return cruise to Queenstown Bay.
Get up close to the natural beauty of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery. On this wilderness tour, your local guide will take you on a thorough exploration of the history-rich gold rush hot spot of Arrowtown, to the vast wilderness of Glenorchy and Paradise. Begin the day meandering through the charming cobblestone streets of Arrowtown. A quaint township with a vivid history, you'll explore an old Chinese settlement and enjoy browsing local boutiques and shops. You'll also enjoy a spectacular scenic drive, in the comfort of your Land Rover Discovery or Mercedes van, as you then make your way towards Glenorchy. The road hugs the bright blue waters of Lake Wakatipu as it winds through valleys and around mountain peaks, its not hard to see why it is known as one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
You'll stop at the famous Bennett’s Bluff Lookout for panoramic views across Lake Wakatipu before lunch at a charming local café in the iconic Glenorchy shed. After indulging you'll hop aboard an exhilarating and authentic Dart River Jet Boat, where you'll delve deep into the world-famous Mount Aspiring National Park. Your guide will teach you the region’s rich history before you wander among ancient beech tree forests, a hidden location you might recognize from The Lord of the Rings films. Heading back along the breathtaking Glenorchy Road, enjoy take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque and historic Bob’s Cove, before journeying back to Queenstown.
Transfer
Private transfer to Queenstown Airport
Flight
Flight from Queenstown to Wellington
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Wellington
Wellington
Accommodation in Wellington
Wellington
Overview
Lose yourself in a world of vintage bronze and golds and rich textures at Sofitel Wellington.
The 129 rooms and suites, some of which offer views out over the surrounding hillsides, are designed to be luxurious havens in which to unwind after busy days adventuring in the city and surrounds.
Go on a gastronomic journey at the sophisticated Jardin Grill, where the botanical theme of the décor combines perfectly with the gourmet menu. Dine inside, or stay warm beside the outdoor fire pit in the courtyard.
Apart from the comfortable rooms, the hotel has various other welcoming spaces for guests to enjoy. Curl up in front of a fire in the chic Lounge, or enjoy a light meal a chat with your fellow guests in The Green Room.
→ Find out moreWellington
Overview
Immerse yourself in a world of colour and texture at QT Wellington. This design-driven hotel boasts a fascinating collection of high and low-brow art.
The harbourside hotel offers guests 163 luxurious rooms and apartments to choose from. Sophisticated décor in muted tones offer a calming juxtaposition with the busy public spaces in the hotel.
A meal at French-inspired Hippopotamus Restaurant and Cocktail Bar is an experience not to be missed. The menu features a mix of comfort food and fine-dining. Or tuck into Asian-inspired dishes at Hot Sauce, where you’ll find traditional Vietnamese, Japanese, Korean and Thai flavours with a contemporary twist.
→ Find out moreWellington
Overview
Within walking distance of the New Zealand capital’s harbour waterfront and popular tourist attractions, the revampled InterContinental Wellington makes for a sophisticated city base.
234 chic rooms offer views of the cityscape and harbour, modern features and walk-in showers. Muted tones and soft fabrics make for a haven of inner-city tranquillity with a focus on luxury.
Arizona has been serving visitors and locals alike for over 24 years with speedy, professional and friendly service. The detailed and atmospheric bar and restaurant specialises in quality American-themed cuisine and drinks served the traditional way. The Lobby Lounge, the perfect place to relax over a variety of teas, coffee and light meals. To experience truly local flavours created by expert chefs, dine at Chameleon Restaurant.
Emerge Health Club provides a fully-equipped gym with a hot tub, sauna and one of the largest indoor heated hotel swimming pools in Wellington. With extensive sports and fitness experience, the Emerge team is on hand for all your training needs. Then let go of day-to-day stress as you enter the oasis of Spa InterContinental with a wide range of luxurious rituals and therapeutic treatments from which to choose.
→ Find out moreWellington
Overview
Located in the centre of the city, close to cafes, shops, restaurants and Wellington’s vibrant waterfront, the independent Bolton Hotel is a fine choice in the city.
Offering a choice of 139 stylish and comfortable rooms, from elegant studios to one- and two-bedroom suites, there’s something to suit everyone, including large and small groups.
The restaurant, Artisan, offers a creatively suave dining experience with Executive Chef McLean Fraser’s food carefully created dishes celebrating local cuisine, traditions and produce.
Also within the hotel is a fully equipped fitness room with the latest cardio and weight training equipment, a heated lap pool, spa pool and sauna.
→ Find out moreNestled on rolling green hills that spill down to a charming harbour, New Zealand’s capital is an epicentre of culture and creativity - renowned for its arts, gastronomy, heritage and bohemian character. The CBD is a creative hub and easy to get around by foot. Wander pedestrianised Cuba Street to get a taste of what makes this city tick with its theatrical street performers, colourful sculptures, cafes spilling out into the road, boutique shops and numerous watering holes to sample the local craft beers and coffee that the city is renowned for. Wellington is also home to New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa, which is well worth a visit for an interactive account of the country's history and insight into Maori culture and traditions.
Operated by an expert Lord of the Rings guide, this half-day tour explores the very best filming locations the Wellington region has to offer. Leave the city behind and seek out the beautiful, natural settings that made New Zealand into Middle Earth. Although no sets remain on any of the locations, you will be astounded how these places were transformed into some of your favourite scenes from the films. Starting at the Hutt River, see where the Fellowship voyaged down the Great River Anduin towards Amon Hen after leaving Lothlorien. Then the Gardens of Isengard where Gandalf sought advice from Saruman the White about the Ring. Continuing up Highway 2, you'll then visit Kaitoke Regional Park, a stunning New Zealand rainforest that became Rivendell. Wander the paths walked by Elrond and Arwen, and the newly formed Fellowship of the Ring.
You'll then pause for a moment with a refreshing morning/afternoon tea before heading back to the city, passing by the quarry used for Helm’s Deep and Minas Tirith on the way. Making your way up Mt Victoria, stop to see the Outer Shire. You'll also see where Aragorn and Theoden overlook their troops at the Dunharrow Encampment before finishing the tour at the fantastic Mt Victoria lookout with breathtaking views of Wellington City, region, and 'Wellywood', the home of the Wellington Film Industry.
A must for any film lover, this tour allows you to get up close to the props, weapons, armour and vehicles crafted for The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, District 9, King Kong, The Chronicles of Narnia and more.
You'll also enjoy a three-course meal at CoCo at the Roxy and dine among incredible artworks, movie memorabilia and sculptures.
Transfer
Private transfer to Wellington Airport
Flight
Flight from Wellington to Taupo
Taupo
Accommodation in Taupo
Rotorua and Taupo
Overview
Set in the tranquil 254-hectare grounds of the Kinloch Club course on the shores of Lake Taupo, is The Kinloch Club.
This modern, luxury lodge was designed to emulate a Scottish castle but with a distict, 21st-century feel. The main lodge with its schist stone exterior looks out over the magnificent golf course and Lake Taupo. On arrival, guests will pass through the central courtyard with outdoor fireplace and reflecting pool. Inside, the great room, dining room, bar and den are cosy and luxurious with splashes of velvet and cowhide and a warm and inviting colour scheme.
A short walk from the main lodge are one- and two-bedroom villas as well as suites, each offering magnificent views. Freestanding bath tubs and sumptuous handmade New Zealand rugs ensure a comfortable stay, and those staying in the villas will enjoy use of their own private terrace.
The Kinloch Spa is the perfect escape and when hunger strikes, the restaurant offers gourmet cusine to be enjoyed with New Zealand’s world-class wine. You can also choose to dine in the comfort of your own villa or suite.
→ Find out moreRotorua and Taupo
Overview
On the shores of Lake Taupo sits the Acacia Cliffs Lodge, in an enviable position overlooking this most scenic of waters.
The four boutique suites are stylish and modern, without compromising on the charm of a holiday retreat. Each room is large and spacious, coming with either a large private deck with breath-taking lake views or a private garden courtyard.
The communal areas drink in the landscape through vast glass walls, with the dining area particularly spectacular, a fitting setting for wonderful meals complimented by local wines.
Acacia Cliffs Lodge is a great base from which to explore everything Taupo has to offer, whether a scenic flight over the lake and nearby active volcanoes, fly fishing, golf, hiking and more. The nearby town of Taupo has a great selection of cafes, galleries and restaurants, easily reachable by bike, and you can look forward to returning to a selection of in room spa treatments.
→ Find out moreRotorua and Taupo
Highlights
- 18 rooms
- Restaurant
- Pool
- Fly fishing
- Hiking
- Horse riding
- Kayaking
Overview
Since 1924, Huka Lodge has maintained the spirit of generous hospitality as was espoused by its charming founder, Irishman Alan Pye. Originally harbouring a reputation primarily as a trout fishing paradise, it is now known as an exceptional luxury retreat, and regarded among the best in the world.
The lodge sits upon the banks of the exceedingly picturesque Waikato River, its rushing waters on the literal doorsteps of 20 spacious junior suites.
The Owner’s Cottage enjoys a muted woodland palette and is upmarket and refined, white wooden beams arching over comfortable living spaces which are warm and rustic.
Constructed with strong cedar, heart timbers, stone and brick, The Alan Pye Cottage is a nod to early 20th-century architecture with a reinterpretation of contemporary design.
The kitchen at Huka Lodge upholds a tradition of generous cuisine, changing daily to accommodate all palates and preferences. Raw honey is collected from the numerous bee hives from the local breeding programme on the property, ideal for deserts as it’s not too sweet.
Outside the lodge, activities abound. Enjoy anything from white water rafting to the lodge’s gorgeous namesake of nearby Huka Falls. Traverse the horse riding trails or similarly embark along hiking trails through this volcanic region.
→ Find out moreSteaming mud pools, erupting geysers and Maori traditions all make this a special area to visit and one that is distinctively unique to the rest of New Zealand. Explore geothermal parks before heading into nearby native forests for hiking or mountain biking the numerous world-class trails. Lake Taupo is actually a volcano crater, the lake’s deep blue waters draw visitors with its idyllic swimming holes, reputable fishing and adventure sports. On a clear day the views stretch out over the glassy water to the snowcapped volcanoes of Tongariro National Park in the distance.
With your guide, you will trek across a volcanic alpine landscape of dramatic contrasts - steaming vents, glacial valleys, ancient lava flows, alpine vegetation and vivid crater lakes, all with stunning views.
Rated as one of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular hiking tracks. The Tongariro National Park is a World Heritage site which has the distinction of dual status, as it has been acknowledged for both its natural and cultural significance
Visit the Hobbiton movie set near the rural town of Matamata, made famous as the original setting of Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Your tour gives an astonishing insight into how these movies were made and which parts were filmed here. You will see Hobbit Holes, The Green Dragon Inn, The Mill, the iconic double arched bridge and other structures and gardens built for the films. Spectacular views extend across to the Kaimai Ranges from the rolling green hills of the movie set, which is still a working sheep and cattle farm.
Transfer
Private transfer to Auckland airport
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
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Into the World of Lord of the Rings: A Family Adventure
How we work
Your family can follow in the footsteps of Bilbo, Frodo and their companions as you explore New Zealand and the breathtaking locations that doubled for some of the most iconic places in Middle Earth in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. Your epic journey begins in Queenstown with an exhilarating helicopter trip over some of the breath-taking scenery featured in the film trilogy. Touch down in some of the hard-to-reach spots and get a closer look at some of the props used on set. While in the region, you will also have the chance to explore some of the rugged terrain near Walter Peak on an electric trail bike and learn more about your stunning surroundings. Then a wilderness tour will introduce you to even more of New Zealand’s spectacular scenery, and more hidden film locations. From Queenstown, you’ll fly to Wellington where a half-day tour will allow you to explore some of the most fascinating filming locations used for the Lord of the Rings films in the region. You’ll discover how the scenery was transformed into Middle Earth. From the Great River Anduin to the Gardens of Isengard and Helm’s Deep and beyond, it’s a wonderful way to relive your favourite big screen moments. And a tour of the Weta Studios just adds an extra layer of excitement for any film lover. You’ll see some of the props, weapons and armour that were created specifically for the Tolkien adaptations, as well as some of Peter Jackson’s other films. Finally, you’ll head to Taupo where you’ll get to stroll along the winding pathways of the delightfully quaint Hobbiton near Matamata. Admire views of the imposing Mount Doom or Mount Ruapehu, and walk to the edge of an active crater lake. Your family will never watch the Lord of the Rings film the same way again, having had the opportunity to explore so much of Middle Earth yourselves.
| Whats included?
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Days 1-4 |
Queenstown |
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Queenstown |
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Accommodation in Queenstown
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The Rees Apartments - $$$$$
With beautiful lake and alpine views, this luxury hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu is...
•
The Spire Hotel Queenstown - $$$$$
Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, The Spire Hotel offers award-winning luxury combining...
•
Eichardt’s Private Hotel - $$$$$
With a history intertwined with the region’s gold rush, the building of Eichardt’s Private...
•
Matakauri Lodge - $$$$$
Sat on the shores of the deep Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge is a tranquil haven of serene...
•
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel - $$$$$
Set against a gorgeous mountain background among lush parkland, the Queenstown Park Boutique...
•
Hulbert House - $$$$$
A relic of stately Victorian elegance, Hulbert House is a luxury villa that operates as one of...
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Four days exploring Queenstown From the towering alpine ranges that envelop Queenstown, to its laidback lakeside sister Wanaka, this is easily one of the most spectacular regions of the country. Seek out one of the endless thrills on offer here from skiing, white water rafting, canyon swinging, jet boating, mountain biking and bungy jumping, or slow down to the cosmopolitan pace of life in Queenstown and cool Wanaka and you’ll discover its flourishing arts scene, excellent vineyards, fine dining and quiet lakeside shores where you can take in the incredible scenery. |
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Helicopter Experience: Lord of the Rings Experience the landscape of Queenstown and the Southern Alps from the air. Every moment is breath-taking - every direction a Lord of the Rings location. Touch down in hard to reach locations and fly over otherwise inaccessible terrain, before the land-based second half of the day where you'll get up and close at a final location getting hands on time with weapons and costumes used in the film. |
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Walter Peak electric trail bikes Explore the rugged country terrain at Walter Peak on an electric trail bike. Start by boarding the historic TSS Earnslaw vintage steamship for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak, where you’ll meet your guide who will go through everything you need to know about the bikes. This unique experience is exciting and provides a fun, low-impact activity in peaceful and stunning surroundings. You will be guided through gentle rolling farmland, then climb 'The Hill' and take in the views of the Colonel's Homestead and beautiful Lake Wakatipu below. Then ride the undulating tracks towards the lakeside peninsula at Beach Point reserve. Here there is a stop for refreshments and time for you to learn about the history of Walter Peak and high country farming. Your guide will also update you on the conservation efforts to remove the invasive wilding pine trees, replacing them with pockets of native plant and bush. Return back to the farm after riding the flat natural terraces overlooking the lake, soaking in the stunning alpine scenery. There's time to visit the gift shop and take photos before boarding the TSS Earnslaw for your return cruise to Queenstown Bay. |
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Queenstown wilderness tour Get up close to the natural beauty of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery. On this wilderness tour, your local guide will take you on a thorough exploration of the history-rich gold rush hot spot of Arrowtown, to the vast wilderness of Glenorchy and Paradise. Begin the day meandering through the charming cobblestone streets of Arrowtown. A quaint township with a vivid history, you'll explore an old Chinese settlement and enjoy browsing local boutiques and shops. You'll also enjoy a spectacular scenic drive, in the comfort of your Land Rover Discovery or Mercedes van, as you then make your way towards Glenorchy. The road hugs the bright blue waters of Lake Wakatipu as it winds through valleys and around mountain peaks, its not hard to see why it is known as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. You'll stop at the famous Bennett’s Bluff Lookout for panoramic views across Lake Wakatipu before lunch at a charming local café in the iconic Glenorchy shed. After indulging you'll hop aboard an exhilarating and authentic Dart River Jet Boat, where you'll delve deep into the world-famous Mount Aspiring National Park. Your guide will teach you the region’s rich history before you wander among ancient beech tree forests, a hidden location you might recognize from The Lord of the Rings films. Heading back along the breathtaking Glenorchy Road, enjoy take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque and historic Bob’s Cove, before journeying back to Queenstown. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Queenstown Airport |
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Flight from Queenstown to Wellington | |
Private transfer to your hotel in Wellington | |
Days 4-6 |
Wellington |
Accommodation in Wellington
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Sofitel Wellington - $$$$$
Lose yourself in a world of vintage bronze and golds and rich textures at Sofitel...
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QT Wellington - $$$$$
Immerse yourself in a world of colour and texture at QT Wellington. This design-driven hotel...
•
InterContinental Wellington - $$$$$
Within walking distance of the New Zealand capital’s harbour waterfront and popular tourist...
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Bolton Hotel - $$$$$
Located in the centre of the city, close to cafes, shops, restaurants and Wellington’s...
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Three days in Wellington Nestled on rolling green hills that spill down to a charming harbour, New Zealand’s capital is an epicentre of culture and creativity - renowned for its arts, gastronomy, heritage and bohemian character. The CBD is a creative hub and easy to get around by foot. Wander pedestrianised Cuba Street to get a taste of what makes this city tick with its theatrical street performers, colourful sculptures, cafes spilling out into the road, boutique shops and numerous watering holes to sample the local craft beers and coffee that the city is renowned for. Wellington is also home to New Zealand’s national museum, Te Papa, which is well worth a visit for an interactive account of the country's history and insight into Maori culture and traditions. |
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Lord of the Rings location tour Operated by an expert Lord of the Rings guide, this half-day tour explores the very best filming locations the Wellington region has to offer. Leave the city behind and seek out the beautiful, natural settings that made New Zealand into Middle Earth. Although no sets remain on any of the locations, you will be astounded how these places were transformed into some of your favourite scenes from the films. Starting at the Hutt River, see where the Fellowship voyaged down the Great River Anduin towards Amon Hen after leaving Lothlorien. Then the Gardens of Isengard where Gandalf sought advice from Saruman the White about the Ring. Continuing up Highway 2, you'll then visit Kaitoke Regional Park, a stunning New Zealand rainforest that became Rivendell. Wander the paths walked by Elrond and Arwen, and the newly formed Fellowship of the Ring. You'll then pause for a moment with a refreshing morning/afternoon tea before heading back to the city, passing by the quarry used for Helm’s Deep and Minas Tirith on the way. Making your way up Mt Victoria, stop to see the Outer Shire. You'll also see where Aragorn and Theoden overlook their troops at the Dunharrow Encampment before finishing the tour at the fantastic Mt Victoria lookout with breathtaking views of Wellington City, region, and 'Wellywood', the home of the Wellington Film Industry. |
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Weta Studios tour A must for any film lover, this tour allows you to get up close to the props, weapons, armour and vehicles crafted for The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, District 9, King Kong, The Chronicles of Narnia and more. You'll also enjoy a three-course meal at CoCo at the Roxy and dine among incredible artworks, movie memorabilia and sculptures. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Wellington Airport |
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Flight from Wellington to Taupo | |
Days 6-9 |
Taupo |
Accommodation in Taupo
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The Kinloch Club - $$$$$
Set in the tranquil 254-hectare grounds of the Kinloch Club course on the shores of Lake...
•
Acacia Cliffs - $$$$$
On the shores of Lake Taupo sits the Acacia Cliffs Lodge, in an enviable position overlooking...
•
Huka Lodge - $$$$$
Since 1924, Huka Lodge has maintained the spirit of generous hospitality as was espoused by...
|
|
Four days exploring Lake Taupo Steaming mud pools, erupting geysers and Maori traditions all make this a special area to visit and one that is distinctively unique to the rest of New Zealand. Explore geothermal parks before heading into nearby native forests for hiking or mountain biking the numerous world-class trails. Lake Taupo is actually a volcano crater, the lake’s deep blue waters draw visitors with its idyllic swimming holes, reputable fishing and adventure sports. On a clear day the views stretch out over the glassy water to the snowcapped volcanoes of Tongariro National Park in the distance. |
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Tongariro Alpine Crossing With your guide, you will trek across a volcanic alpine landscape of dramatic contrasts - steaming vents, glacial valleys, ancient lava flows, alpine vegetation and vivid crater lakes, all with stunning views. Rated as one of New Zealand’s ‘Great Walks’, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular hiking tracks. The Tongariro National Park is a World Heritage site which has the distinction of dual status, as it has been acknowledged for both its natural and cultural significance |
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Hobbiton tour Visit the Hobbiton movie set near the rural town of Matamata, made famous as the original setting of Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Your tour gives an astonishing insight into how these movies were made and which parts were filmed here. You will see Hobbit Holes, The Green Dragon Inn, The Mill, the iconic double arched bridge and other structures and gardens built for the films. Spectacular views extend across to the Kaimai Ranges from the rolling green hills of the movie set, which is still a working sheep and cattle farm. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Auckland airport |