Self Drive Holidays 12 Day Lord Of The Rings North Island Motorhome Adventure

Start your trip in the vibrant harbour capital of New Zealand. Pick up your campervan in Auckland and make your way to Hamilton. Get excited as you will go on the official Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tour! 

Rotorua is a dream photography location. Known as the geothermic capital of New Zealand, you’ll have plenty of options to explore. Head out to the magical Redwoods Forest before experiencing a cultural show and dinner at the traditional Tamaki Māori Village.

On your second day in Rotorua, you are armed with the Diamond Pass. This gives you access to Te Puia, Skyline Rotorua Gondola, Agrodome, Polynesian Spa and a choice of either Rainbow Springs or Paradise Valley Springs. We highly recommend that you don’t miss the mighty Te Puia!

Make your way to Taupo to visit Gollum’s Pool (Tawhai Falls), where the famous scene of The Lord of the Rings movie was filmed.  Another must-see is the Huka Falls. This incredible spectacle is the most-visited natural attraction in New Zealand – it’s hard to tear your gaze away from the endless, mesmerising torrent.

Today, you get to experience Mordor! Tongariro Alpine Crossing is the filming location of Mordor and also known as the country’s best day walk. This 19-km hike through landscape made famous in The Lord of the Rings trilogy is well worth the effort. A shuttle bus from Taupo will take you to the start of the hike. Shorter walks to Mordor are also available.

On your way to Peter Jackson's home town of Wellington, you come across another Lord of the Rings film location, the Putangirua Pinnacles. Doubled as the Dimholt Road in The Return of the King, don’t miss your chance to walk the Paths of the Death!

Then it’s time to visit Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. This vibrant city is full of trendy restaurants, cafes and breweries and has a great live music scene. 

Embark on a journey through Wellington's award-winning Weta Studio & Workshop. Immerse yourself in blockbuster behind-the-scenes magic from Lord of the Rings, Hobbiton and countless other Hollywood blockbusters. Enjoy a 5-hour experience with 2 film effects tours, a 2-course lunch and drink on the waterfront. You will also receive a souvenir to remember your Weta experience. 

Taranaki is often missed by travellers, but worth the stop to experience the raw beauty of the North Island. Visit the famous The Three Sisters on the coast or if you’re feeling adventurous, hike to Mt Taranaki for the incredible views.

Waitomo is world-famous for its Glowworm Caves and vast limestone formations. This area is also known as Hairy Feet, used for The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. Today it’s time for the ultimate adventure caving tour, the Black Abyss. Feel the adrenaline as you abseil into the dark, seemingly bottomless depths of Ruakuri Cave. Zipline through a gallery of glowworms and climb underground waterfalls as you test your limits on this truly unforgettable journey.

Join a tour to Hairy Feet and Trollshaws Forest. Visit the stunning farm location at Mangaotaki Rocks Piopio, near Waitomo, where the troll and campfire scenes in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey were filmed. Towering limestone cliffs, massive rock formations and a primaeval forest on the Denize family farm became the location for Staddle Farm and Trollshaws.

Drive to the lively town of Raglan, New Zealand’s surf mecca. Discover the creative culture, great coffees and surf breaks. Perhaps, catch a wave yourself! 

On your way to Auckland, visit the final Lord of the Rings filming location of your trip. Stop at Port Waikato, where the mighty Waikato River meets the ocean. Journey south along the coast to the Nikau caves and past the limestone outcrops in the surrounding hills to find Weathertop Hollow. In Auckland, it’s time to drop off your campervan.