The 14 Day Scenes of New Zealand Self Drive is ideal for fans of Lord of the Rings, blending epic film locations with stunning natural beauty. Start in Auckland and journey through the glowworm-lit Waitomo Caves, the rolling pastures of Hobbiton, and the geothermal power of Rotorua. In Wellington, explore Weta Cave and take a full-day tour of key Middle-earth locations from the capital.
The South Island brings dramatic contrasts with a visit to the windswept plains of Edoras near Christchurch, followed by alpine lakes and mountain ranges featured in scenes filmed around Queenstown and Glenorchy. Alongside iconic sets, enjoy coastal drives, wildlife encounters and charming towns like Dunedin. With the freedom to explore at your own pace, this journey combines the fantasy of film with the magic of real-life New Zealand.
All itineraries can be amended or combined with other itineraries. Please advise amendments when requesting a quote.
Tour code: GONZ14DSNZSD
On your arrival in Auckland, the City of Sails, you will collect your car hire at the airport. Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the city.
Overnight in Auckland
Travel south through Waikato’s lush farmland, stopping in Hamilton along the way. Continue to Waitomo, where you have the afternoon free to explore. Take a glowworm cave tour and see the grotto illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms, or try black water rafting for a more adventurous experience.
Overnight in Waitomo
Drive to Matamata for a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the famous film location and a glimpse into rural life. After the tour, stop at The Shire’s Rest Café for refreshments or a “Second Breakfast” before continuing to Rotorua, a city rich in Māori culture and history.
Stay 2 nights Rotorua
Included
Enjoy a free day to explore Rotorua, a geothermal hotspot located on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Visit bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and learn about the rich traditions of New Zealand’s Māori people. With activities available year-round, there’s plenty to see and do in any weather.
Optional activities include adventure experiences at Velocity Valley Adrenaline Park, a relaxing soak at Polynesian Spa, Hells Gate, or Wai Ora Spa, or exploring the region’s impressive geothermal attractions.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Māori cultural performance followed by a hāngī feast, where food is cooked underground in the traditional way.
Included
Drive south through steam clad Wairakei, to Taupo. Skirt Lake Taupo, across the volcanic plateau past the cones of Tongariro, Ngaruahoe and Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park. Cross the Manawatu plains then along the rugged Kapiti coastline to our capital city, sprawled over the hills surrounding Wellington Harbour.
Stay 2 nights Wellington
Today, explore iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies on a guided tour filled with behind-the-scenes insights. Visit key sites like Helm’s Deep, Rivendell, and the Hobbiton Woods, where your guide will share fascinating details about each location. Enjoy an exclusive tour at Weta Workshop to see how props and weapons were made, then stop at the Weta Cave for photos with iconic characters. Take in breathtaking views from Mount Victoria Lookout before finishing with a drive past the Embassy Theatre, home to The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit premieres.
Included
Sit back and enjoy the stunning views as you cruise across Cook Strait and through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds on your Interislander Ferry journey to Picton. From there, follow the coastal road south between the Kaikōura Ranges and the Pacific Ocean. After Kaikōura, the route winds inland through North Canterbury’s sheep farming country before reaching Christchurch.
Stay 2 nights in Christchurch
Included
Take a tour of The Lord of the Rings filming locations in Canterbury, including the stunning Mt Potts high country station, home to Mt Sunday. This peaceful mountain was transformed into Edoras for the films, and you’ll have the chance to walk to its summit, just as Éowyn did, to admire the breathtaking views. See exclusive behind-the-scenes photos of Edoras under construction and the Misty Mountains backdrop used for Helm’s Deep. Enjoy a picnic lunch on tour and get hands-on with movie replicas, including Aragorn’s sword, King Théoden’s sword, Gimli’s axe, Gandalf’s staff, and the Flag of Rohan.
Included
Drive south across the Canterbury Plains, passing through Ashburton, a town known for its trout fishing. Continue to Timaru, with its historic architecture, and Oamaru, home to the Little Blue Penguins. Just 70km north of Dunedin, don’t miss the Moeraki Boulders—unique geological formations scattered along the coastline.
Stay 2 nights in Dunedin
Spend the day exploring Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula, a region known for its wildlife and eco-tourism. Choose from a variety of tours and cruises showcasing the best of the area, including an Argo adventure at Nature’s Wonders or a guided visit to the Yellow-Eyed Penguin Reserve.
Discover the fascinating history of Larnach Castle, visit Baldwin Street—the world’s steepest residential road—or take a tour of the 125-year-old Speight’s Brewery, ending with a tasting of its world-class beers. Dunedin’s rich history and stunning architecture make it a city to remember.
Drive through the rugged landscapes of Central Otago, passing fertile stone fruit orchards and following the Clutha River to the art deco town of Ranfurly. Stop at the historic mining settlement of St Bathans before continuing to Alexandra. From there, travel along the dramatic southern shores of Lake Wakatipu, arriving in Queenstown.
Stay 3 nights in Queenstown
Enjoy two free days in Queenstown, an alpine resort offering everything from adrenaline-fuelled adventures to luxury experiences. Try bungy jumping, a Shotover Jet boat ride, horse trekking, rafting, or river surfing. For a more relaxed pace, indulge in gourmet food and wine, spa treatments, or a round of golf. Just a short drive away, the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown sits beside the Arrow River, offering a charming glimpse into the past.
Join a full-day tour of The Lord of the Rings filming locations in Queenstown and discover why this breathtaking region was chosen to bring Middle-earth to life. Visit key sites used in the films, from dramatic mountain landscapes to hidden valleys, while your guide shares behind-the-scenes insights and fascinating stories from the production. Along the way, enjoy stunning panoramic views, take memorable photos, and immerse yourself in the magic of these iconic locations.
Included
This morning you are free to explore Queenstown before dropping off your car in the afternoon at Queenstown Airport and catching your flight home.
Yes, most rental car companies allow additional drivers to be included in the rental agreement, although fees and conditions vary between providers.
All drivers must meet the rental company's age and driving licence requirements and be registered on the rental agreement before driving.
Yes, you can customise your accommodation to suit your preferences and budget. Our Christchurch self-drive holidays typically include pre-arranged accommodation, ranging from comfortable hotels and motels to boutique lodges and luxury properties. You can request accommodation upgrades or alternative properties, subject to availability and any additional costs.
Yes. Christchurch return self-drive tours can be customised to suit your travel plans. You can extend your holiday, add extra nights in selected destinations or adjust your route to include additional South Island attractions.
For travellers wanting to explore both islands, our Christchurch to Auckland Self Drive Tours offer alternative itineraries travelling north.
You can also browse our Christchurch self-drive holidays for more itinerary ideas.
Travel insurance is typically not included in self-drive packages, so it is essential to purchase comprehensive travel insurance separately. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events that may occur during your self-drive holiday.
All-inclusive insurance can also be added to your rental car if you book your self-drive package with us.
Our self-drive packages are based on hybrid rental vehicles, with electric or petrol vehicles available if preferred, subject to availability. Tell us your passenger numbers, luggage requirements and vehicle preference when enquiring. For example, the 10 Day Southern Sojourn Self Drive includes an intermediate rental car, with upgrades available. Your quote will confirm the vehicle category, fuel type and collection and return arrangements.
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