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Wanting to explore Middle-earth? Well, have we got the guide for you!  We have tracked down the shooting locations in Wellywood (Wellington) New Zealand, to help you navigate your way around these movie-set backdrops. If you close your eyes, you can almost see and hear Frodo and Sam exploring the world outside of the shire.

Mt Victoria

Used to shoot the Hobbits hiding from the ring wraiths just outside of The Shire, Mt Victoria is covered in forest. Hiking your way up along the track, you will find a signpost just off the first right turn of your trek. (Locals are good at pointing out the exact location of the trees.) To get to Mt Victoria, take Alexandra Road and find the parking area halfway up the hill. A track on the left goes down into the forest to take you to the first landmark.

Harcourt Park

The site where Gandalf meets with Saruman in the gardens of Isengard was filmed in Harcourt Park, north of Upper Hutt on State Highway 2. Turn left at Brown Owl into Akatarawa Road and you will find Harcourt Park on the left.

Wētā Cave and Workshop

Do you know where the props, costumes and special effects were made for the Lord of the Rings trilogy?  We do!  It was right here at the Wētā Cave and Workshop, co-founded by film director Peter Jackson. You can go on a tour of the mini-museum for free, go on a paid tour to hear behind-the-scenes tales of the movie shoots, or buy some memorabilia from the gift shop. Located in Miramar, on the outskirts of Wellington.

Queen Elizabeth Park

Used to depict Pelennor Fields for the final battle scene in the fields surrounding Minas Tirith, Queen Elizabeth Park can be accessed by driving north from Wellington along State Highway 1. When you reach McKay's Crossing, take a left turn towards the coast and follow the signs into Queen Elizabeth Park.

The Hutt River

The Hutt River was used to show part of the River Anduin, where The Fellowship glided away in boats from Lothlorien. Launching from Poet’s Park, you can bike or walk along the river to find this slice of heaven.  Follow State Highway 2 from Lower Hutt, past Haywards Hill turnoff and head north until you reach a small bridge with a sharp turn.  Poet’s Park is on the left.

Putangirua Pinnacles

A must see even if you’re not a Lord of the Rings fan, the Pinnacles are weathered pillars of soft rock used in the scenes for Dimholt Road where Aragon, Legolas and Gimli search for the Army of the Undead. Accessible via Kahutara Road, off State Highway 53.  At the T-junction at the end, turn right onto Lake Ferry Road, then left onto Cape Palliser Road.  It will be sign-posted from there.

Dry Creek Quarry

Used for the set of Helm’s Deep and Minas Tirith, the quarry was transformed to depict the fortifications used in the last battle scene of The Two Towers. The location is Dry Creek Quarry, Haywards Hill Road, a 10-minute drive from Upper or Lower Hutt.

Kaitoke Regional Park

One of the few signposted locations with information boards to assist with discovering the locations yourself.  Sporting an Elvin arch, some of the area is unidentifiable as the plants were relocated during filming and replanted afterwards.  Make your way to Kaitoke Regional Park, a 15-minute drive north of Upper Hutt on State Highway 2.

Stay and Play 

Embark on your journey into Middle-earth from Travelodge Hotel Wellington, conveniently located in the heart of the city.  With comfortable and spacious accommodation, 24-hour reception and a short walk to shops, cafés and restaurants, you will feel right at home in this stylish hotel.  Best of all, the hotel can arrange your Lord of the Rings tour for you.

** Peace of mind when you stay with us: Introducing Clean Touch. Note some activities listed may be subject to Covid restrictions. **