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.
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.
Most rental car companies allow you to add additional drivers to the rental agreement, but they may charge an extra fee. Check with the rental car provider regarding their policies and any additional costs for adding extra drivers. Each driver must meet the age and license requirements set by the rental company.
Many self-drive packages offer the flexibility to choose from a range of accommodation options. You can often select the type of accommodation that suits your preferences and budget, whether it is hotels, motels / self-contained accommdation, or other types of lodging. Discuss your accommodation preferences with us when booking the package.
Yes, all our self-drive packages are fully customisable. Discuss your requirements with us, so we can help you plan the perfect self-drive holiday that meets your requirements.
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 offer a range of rental car options to suit different preferences and group sizes. Common options include economy cars, sedans, SUVs, campervans, and 4WD vehicles. Choose a car that best fits your needs in terms of size, comfort, and terrain suitability.
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Self Drive Holiday Packages
Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton
Family-friendly Tours
History and Māori Culture
