What to do and see in New Zealand, New Zealand: The Best Movie & TV Tours

August 13, 2021 Marlin Saiz

New Zealand (/njuːˈziːlənd/ ( listen); Māori: Aotearoa [aɔˈtɛaɾɔa]) is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. The country geographically comprises two main landmasses—the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui), and the South Island (Te Waipounamu)—and around 600 smaller islands. New Zealand is situated some 1,500 kilometres (900 mi) east of Australia across the Tasman Sea and roughly 1,000 kilometres (600 mi) south of the Pacific island areas of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga. Because of its remoteness, it was one of the last lands to be settled by humans. During its long period of isolation, New Zealand developed a distinct biodiversity of animal, fungal and plant life. The country's varied topography and its sharp mountain peaks, such as the Southern Alps, owe much to the tectonic uplift of land and volcanic eruptions. New Zealand's capital city is Wellington, while its most populous city is Auckland.
Restaurants in New Zealand

1. Hobbiton Movie Set Tour and Te Puia Geysers in Rotorua

Fenton Street, Victoria, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand New Zealand Discovery Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Combine two of New Zealand's most popular attractions on this full-day small group tour from Rotorua. We make our way to Te Puia, where you will be submerged in the Maori stories, arts and traditions. Get up close to the Pōhutu Geyser, jumping mud-pools, and live kiwi birds; watch master carvers and weavers at work, and hear the guides share stories passed down from their ancestors. We then visit the Redwood Forest to experience these giants and the peaceful atmosphere they create, along with a drive by of Rotorua highlights. A tour of Hobbiton Movie Set is an experience to tantalise the senses of visitors from all across the globe, as guests find themselves engulfed in the sights, smells, sounds and tastes of The Shire, at the home of the Hobbits, as featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. Plenty of time for photo's and souvenir shopping at both attraction Pick-up from your hotel or place of accomodation!  

Inclusions: Driver/Tour escort/host, Transport by modern air-conditioned vehicle, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Alcoholic Beverages

Exclusions: Lunch

Reviewed By Kerry G

Amazing scenery, friendly staff. Very well laid out facility and so clean. Everyone that visits Rotorua should visit this place.

2. Hobbiton Afternoon Tour in Luxury Minibus from Auckland to Auckland

FlexiToursNZ
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

After leaving Auckland we travel through the Waikato region, which is well known for cattle and dairy farming. You will also pass some sheep farms on your way to Hobbiton. On arrival at Hobbiton you will have time get something to eat (own expense) or explore the Shires Rest Souvenir shop before joining Hobbiton Tours for a group walking tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set including a complementary drink at the Green Dragon before boarding our coach to return to Auckland This tour starts later than most (at 12 noon) and we guarantee departure. We have no minimum numbers and will travel for one person Guaranteed departure - We do not cancel on the rare occasions we have low numbers. We will travel for one person

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Luxury seating with Leather seats and extra leg room, Extra wide VIP seating in back row of coach, pickup from non central locations for a small fee, Guaranteed departure - we do not cancel even if you are the only passenger

Exclusions: Opportunity to buy own lunch if neeeded at Shires Rest CAfe at Hobbiton

Reviewed By anthonystewarth

A brilliant trip from the guides to the actual locations which were stunning in everyway. Everything was done with ease and the guides were just wonderful with their knowledge of the various locations. Driving was safe and enjoyable. I couldn't recommend more. Well done Flexi

3. Private Group Tour of Hobbiton Movie Set, Rotorua & Waitimo Glowworms Caves

Black Car Transfers & Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Travellers with limited time will enjoy this action packed day of visiting three attractions in a private day tour from Auckland. You will enjoy your visit to the sets of ‘Lord of The Rings’ and Hobbit movies, discover how a 12 acre sheep farm was turned into a movie set, getting a glimpse of behind the scenes secrets of how the movies were made, then enjoy the countryside of scenic hills and valleys to the wonderland of Rotorua. The sight, sound and colours of the volcanic areas are amazing. The Pohutu geyser is stunning when it erupts. Waitimo Glowworm Caves is mesmerising with its thousands of Glowworms unique only to New Zealand. Your journey through the countryside of New Zealand takes in the lush greenery of rolling hillsides and scenic mountains and valleys with its different animals following New Zealand’s longest river ‘Waikato River’ to Auckland City and your Hotels.

Inclusions: WiFi on board, Bottled water, Snacks, All Fees and Taxes, Private transportation, Return transfers to Auckland

Exclusions: Lunch

Reviewed By fcard

Excellent service by Black Car Transfers & Tours!!! Kris Lal is the epitome of what anyone could ever want and more. Kris picked us up at the airport in a beautiful, immaculately clean car. Not only does he give excellent service but with a warm, kind, friendly experience he would give to his own family. We were in NZ when our cruise ship was cancelled and the ports were closed. Kris took care of us by giving us a short tour of Auckland and then getting us to the airport to return home to the USA I don't know what we would have done without him. And to add to that, he and his lovely wife even offered to put us up in their home if we could not get a flight home What more could anyone ask for. Thank you again, Kris! Frank & Kathy

4. 5-Day Bay of Islands, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua & Hobbiton Tour from Auckland

Leisure Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

A five day independent tour departing Auckland daily and taking in most of the key tourism destination in the North Island of New Zealand. You will visit the Bay of Islands, with a tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the historic township of Russell, and a cruise to the famous 'Hole in the Rock'. Your day in Auckland includes a full day sightseeing with both a harbor cruise and admission to the Sky Tower. On day four travel to Rotorua, via Waitomo Glowworm Caves, with a guided tour of the glowworm grotto. Day five includes admission to the main attractions in Rotorua, including Te Puia, the Agrodome, and Rainbow Springs along with a tour of Hobbiton on your return journey to Auckland. The tour includes four nights in 4 star accommodation and all transport and tours listed.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off for Auckland, Paihia, and Rotorua., Commentary by local guides, Two nights accommodation in Auckland and one nights accommodation in Paihia and Rotorua, Admission fees and all transport/tour fees listed in itinerary, All transport to and from activities/accommodation

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities (optional)

Reviewed By ClosesOnTour

Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.

5. Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour incl BBQ Buffet Lunch from Auckland

Cheeky Kiwi Travel
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5.0 based on 30 reviews

Experience the world-famous Lord of The Rings Hobbiton Movie Set plus the Waitomo Glowworm Caves all in one day. This unforgettable combo tour takes you to the top tourist attractions in the North Island. Highlights: • Hobbiton & Alexander Family Sheep Farm • Waitomo Glowworm Caves • Secret Animal Viewing Stops • Waikato Farming Region While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. This tour is less rushed than others, making it the ultimate Auckland day tour, and is led by our passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Entry Tickets, Bottled water, Snacks, BBQ Buffet Lunch, Optional extra - One-way option from Auckland to Waitomo

Exclusions: Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Reviewed By M6828DUlisao

We enjoyed this tour from start to finish. It was a fantastic day out. Our tour guide Mani was amazing. He had such a wealth of knowledge and was so friendly and involved in our whole experience. I would have to say he has been the best tour guide we have ever had. The highlight of the day was our visit to Cathedral Cove ( such a breathtaking place) and Hot Water Beach. A very different experience for us

6. Hobbiton & Rotorua Small Group Tour incl Te Puia, Hangi Buffet Lunch & Concert

Cheeky Kiwi Travel
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

Experience the world-famous Lord of The Rings Hobbiton Movie Set plus the geothermal and Maori cultural wonders of Te Puia all in one day. This unforgettable combo tour takes you to two of the top tourist attractions in the North Island. Highlights: • Hobbiton & Alexander Family Sheep Farm • Te Puia Geothermal Park & Pohutu • Maori Cultural Village and Arts School • Rotorua City Highlights While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. Our tours are led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in a modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Bottled water, Snacks, Entry Tickets, Traditional Maori Hangi Buffet Lunch, Optional extra - One-way option from Auckland to Rotorua

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By M6828DUlisao

We enjoyed this tour from start to finish. It was a fantastic day out. Our tour guide Mani was amazing. He had such a wealth of knowledge and was so friendly and involved in our whole experience. I would have to say he has been the best tour guide we have ever had. The highlight of the day was our visit to Cathedral Cove ( such a breathtaking place) and Hot Water Beach. A very different experience for us

7. Hobbiton Movie Set Small Group Tour from Auckland

Auckland Scenic Tours
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5.0 based on 27 reviews

Make the most of your time in Auckland with a small-group tour to the magical and enchanting Hobbiton - Lord of the Rings Movie Set. Enjoy the trip of a lifetime to one of the most iconic New Zealand attractions in an idyllic location, all in just one day from Auckland. See how this beautiful piece of farmland has been transformed into the Shire from Middle Earth.Our simply magical and enchanting tour takes place over 8 hours and with the insight of our highly knowledgeable local tour guide, it truly will be a day to remember. No trip to New Zealand’s North Island is complete without a visit to this iconic attraction, so don’t hesitate to book your trip with us as our tours fill up quickly! Take photos in front of your favourite places like the Hobbit Holes, The Mill and the Green Dragon Inn. Afterwards visit the Shire Store, which features an extensive selection of souvenirs to remind you of your visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set.

Inclusions: Beverage at The Green Dragon, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Local taxes, Knowledgeable tour guide

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By 144cinematicc

Absolute knowledgable & friendly guide with excellent photography skills for the best interest of my tour experience on a stunning day, it’s simply incredible! The effort of putting a customised plan for a solo trip is beyond what was paid, greatly appreciated. Two big Thumbs-up to David, you are amazing as :))

8. Lord of the Rings Tours - One Day in Middle Earth

The Station - Home of Adventure in Queenstown, Corner of Shotover & Camp Streets, 25 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand Lord of The Rings Tours
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5.0 based on 71 reviews

• Take in the diverse landscape of an ancient beech forest, braided rivers and glacier-carved valleys. • Explore the unique flora and fauna and get up close to animals and birdlife. • Explore Gladden Fields, Ford of Bruinen and Argonath, Isengard, Amon Hen, the Misty Mountains and Ithilien in one day • Handle and photograph $15000 worth of weapon and costumes • View "Top Secret" items from the movies • Entertaining and Knowledgeable guides. Your guide will help you relive the action for your camera • Travel in small groups for a personal and interactive experience

Inclusions: Lunch, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Air-conditioned vehicle, Guided Tour

Exclusions: Alcoholic Beverages, No Smoking

Reviewed By Ettykaryati

We had fun during our "Middle Earth" tour. We visited the LOTR filming locations in Arrowtown, Kawarau Gorge and Lake Hayes. Shane is very knowledgeable guide. Fully recommended!

9. Glenorchy & Paradise Half-Day Explorer

The Station - Home of Adventure in Queenstown, Corner of Shotover & Camp Streets, 25 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand Altitude Tours
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4.9 based on 104 reviews

No visit to Queenstown is complete without a trip to picturesque Glenorchy, located about 50 minutes away, nestled on the northern shores of Lake Wakatipu, home to some of New Zealand’s best scenery and not to mention Middle‑earth magic. Whether you’re a Lord of the Rings fan or just want to see the absolutely amazing scenery Glenorchy has to offer. The tour visits numerous scenic locations and shares facts, stories and history about the region including Maori history. On tour enjoy time at the Glenorchy wharf and a drive through the quaint township before continuing on to beautiful Paradise, passing Diamond Lake and viewing Lord of The Rings film locations. A delicious kiwi style morning or afternoon tea is included and the opportunity to pose as a Lord of the Rings character while you’re there! Travel in style in luxury Mercedes vans with unique onboard videos and complimentary water and wifi.

Inclusions: Kiwi-style morning tea at a scenic location, Professional guide & live commentary onboard, Complimentary central Queenstown transfers, On board Kiwi music (download our Spotify playlist!), Complimentary NZ Greenstone, Maori storytelling and history, WiFi on board, Bottled water

Exclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By Mei F

I celebrated my birthday in Queenstown for 4days/3nights. My partner and I decided to visit Milford sound by booking a tour from altitude tours. I am writing this review to commend our most energetic, friendliest and awesome driver Tanya ( the crazy cat lady). She made our whole tiring and rainy day experience, the perfect day we had in Queenstown. From start until the end of the day, she never fails to entertain us with her life story and the tour itself. Aside from her enthusiastic attitude and expert driving, the highlights of our tour was the magnificent refreshing waterfalls, swimming dolfins, sunbating furseal, rainbow beside the waterfall, and windsurfing Keith the ?bird on the top of a van. I highly recommend you to book with them if you want your tour in Queenstown be the highlight of your vacation. Cheers to the crazy cat lady!????????

10. Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour

The Station - Home of Adventure in Queenstown, Corner of Shotover & Camp Streets, 25 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand Pure Glenorchy Scenic Lord of the Rings Tours
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4.9 based on 160 reviews

Take a journey with us deep into Middle Earth and explore unique Lord of the Rings filming locations from Queenstown to Glenorchy and Mt Aspiring World Heritage N.P. Feel the trilogy come to life as you visit the breathtaking and magical landscape that inspired Peter Jackson’s film locations for The Lord of the Rings movies. We are the only company with EXCLUSIVE ACCESS to the filming locations on Arcadia Station, where scenes from the Hobbit & Wolverine were filmed. Travel in small groups with local guides who have a real passion and knowledge of the area. Take in the diverse landscape of ancient beech forest, braided rivers and glacier carved valleys. Explore the unique flora and fauna and get up close to the New Zealand animals and birdlife. We are a Local family owned & operated tour company that offer the real experience. Operating since 2005! We are one of the few companies that hold Department of Conservation Concessionaire permits to access Mt Aspiring National park.

Inclusions: Free Delicious morning or afternoon picnic to satisfy a hungry hobbit!, Central Queenstown hotel pick up/ drop off, Umbrellas provided, Professional, friendly & local guides, Live Commentary, Optional Lord of the Rings costumes/ replica swords, Coffee and/or Tea, Snacks, Exclusive access to the Arcadia Station Filming locations in the Paradise valley!

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Reviewed By Fossani11

As Joel said, "it's just like being on a roadie with the boys." Great experience seeing all the places where Lord Of The Rings and other movies were filmed. The views of the New Zealand scenery are amazing. Probably the best part of the trip was having a friendly tour guide, the whole time we were having a yarn.

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