The 7 Day Northern Scenes Self Drive is a dream come true for Lord of the Rings fans and scenic road trip lovers alike. Start in Auckland and head south to Waitomo, where you’ll spend a magical night in a Hobbit-themed motel before exploring glowworm-lit caves. From there, journey to Matamata for a guided tour of the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, where movie magic and rolling hills collide.
Rotorua brings a cultural shift with geothermal wonders and traditional Māori experiences, offering a deeper connection to Aotearoa. Your adventure ends in Wellington with a full-day guided film location tour, including Weta Workshop where props and creatures come to life. With film, fantasy, and incredible natural beauty around every bend, this self-drive is packed with unforgettable scenes.
All itineraries can be amended or combined with other itineraries. Please advise amendments when requesting a quote.
Tour code: GONZ7DNSSD
On your arrival in Auckland, you will collect your car at the airport and drive to your accommodation.
Overnight accommodation in Auckland
The journey south winds through lush Waikato farmland, with a stop in Hamilton along the way. Continue to Woodlyn Park for a unique overnight stay in a Hobbit-themed motel unit.
The afternoon is yours to explore the Waitomo region. Take a guided tour through the glowworm caves, where thousands of tiny lights create a magical underground spectacle. For something more adventurous, try blackwater rafting, or enjoy a cultural show at Woodlyn Park.
Overnight accommodation in Waitomo
Head to Matamata for a guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set, where you'll explore the iconic film location and gain insight into both movie magic and rural life. After the tour, stop at The Shire’s Rest Café for refreshments or a classic "Second Breakfast."
Continue to Rotorua, a city rich in Māori culture and history, known for its geothermal wonders and unique attractions.
2 nights accommodation in Rotorua
A full day to explore Rotorua, a fascinating geothermal region shaped by volcanic activity. Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, the city is home to bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and rich Māori culture. With a wide range of attractions, Rotorua offers something to enjoy in any season or weather.
In the evening, immerse yourself in Māori traditions with a cultural performance, followed by a hāngī feast.
Drive south through the steam-filled landscapes of Wairakei to Taupō, then follow the shores of Lake Taupō across the volcanic plateau. Pass the towering peaks of Tongariro, Ngāuruhoe, and Ruapehu in Tongariro National Park before crossing the Manawatū Plains. Continue along the rugged Kāpiti Coast before arriving in Wellington, where the city stretches across the hills surrounding its picturesque harbour.
2 nights accommodation in Wellington
This tour goes beyond just visiting filming locations, offering behind-the-scenes insights into The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Visit key sites like Helm’s Deep, Rivendell, and the Hobbiton Woods, with your guide sharing fascinating details about each location. Enjoy an exclusive tour at Weta Workshop to see how props and weapons were made, followed by a chance to take photos with iconic characters at the Weta Cave. The journey also includes stunning views from Mount Victoria Lookout and a drive past the Embassy Theatre, home to The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit premieres.
This morning you are free to explore Wellington before dropping off your car in the afternoon at Wellington Airport and catching your flight home.
Yes. Additional drivers can generally be added to your rental vehicle booking, provided they meet the rental company's licence and age requirements.
Additional driver fees may apply, depending on the rental provider and vehicle arrangements.
When booking one of our New Zealand Self Drive Holidays, let us know if you require additional drivers so we can confirm the arrangements and any applicable charges.
Yes. Accommodation can be tailored to your preferences, budget and chosen itinerary. Options may include hotels, motels, boutique lodges and luxury properties, depending on the destinations visited.
Accommodation upgrades and alternative properties can be requested, subject to availability and any additional costs.
Explore our Christchurch return self-drive holidays for examples of different South Island itineraries.
Yes. Christchurch self-drive holidays can be customised to suit your travel plans. Depending on the itinerary, you can extend your holiday, add extra nights in selected destinations or adjust your route to include additional attractions.
Travellers wanting to explore both islands can consider our Christchurch to Auckland Self Drive Tours, while those preferring a South Island journey can explore Christchurch return self-drive holidays.
Personal travel insurance is generally not included in our self-drive holiday packages and should be arranged separately.
Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended to help protect against unexpected medical expenses, cancellations, travel disruptions and other unforeseen circumstances, subject to policy conditions.
Rental vehicle insurance is separate from personal travel insurance. Cover, excess amounts and optional excess-reduction arrangements depend on the rental agreement and package inclusions.
Check the details of your chosen New Zealand self-drive holiday before booking.
All our New Zealand self-drive holiday packages that include car rental feature hybrid vehicles as standard. Fully electric vehicles (EVs) are also available as an option, subject to availability.
Vehicle categories depend on passenger numbers, luggage requirements and individual travel arrangements. Your holiday quotation will confirm the vehicle category, collection and return locations, and applicable rental conditions.
Explore our New Zealand Self Drive Holidays for more information about available holiday options.
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Self Drive Holiday Packages
Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton
Family-friendly Tours
History and Māori Culture
