North Island: Lord of the Rings 5-Day Highlights

Explore the magical filming locations that brought Middle-earth to life across the North Island.
Best For: Movie fans, nature lovers, self-drive travellers
Duration: 5 Days
Start/End: Tāmaki Makaurau – Auckland
Recommended Vehicle: Car or Campervan

Click here to download this itinerary as a printable PDF

Day 1: Auckland → Matamata (Hobbiton)

What to Do:

• Take the guided Hobbiton Movie Set tour
• Enjoy a drink at the Green Dragon Inn
• Explore the lush Waikato countryside

Where to Stay:

• 🚌 Freedom camping: Firth Tower Reserve (self-contained only)
• 🏕️ Campground: Opal Hot Springs & Holiday Park

Must-Try Flavours:

• Hobbiton’s Ale at the Green Dragon
• Local cheeses from Putaruru

Day 2: Matamata → Tongariro National Park (Mount Doom)

What to Do:

• Hike part or all of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Get a guide for a more in depth understanding of the area
• View Mount Ngauruhoe, aka Mount Doom
• Explore volcanic landscapes in the national park

Where to Stay:

• 🚌 Freedom camping: Mangahuia DOC Campsite
• 🏕️ Campground: Discovery Lodge

Travel Tip:

• Weather can change rapidly — pack layers and start early if hiking.

Day 3: Tongariro → Piopio (Trollshaw Forest)

What to Do:

• Visit Hairy Feet Scenic Film Location Tour
• Take photos among limestone cliffs and native bush

Where to Stay:

• 🚌 Freedom camping: Piopio Domain
• 🏕️ Campground: Waitomo TOP 10

Need to Know:

• Tours are guided only — book ahead online.

Day 4: Piopio → Wellington (Rivendell & Wētā Workshop)

What to Do:

• Visit Kaitoke Regional Park (Rivendell)
• Take a studio tour at Wētā Workshop
• Walk around Mount Victoria’s forest (used for the Nazgûl chase)

Where to Stay:

• 🚌 Freedom camping: Evans Bay Marina
• 🏕️ Campground: Wellington Top 10 Holiday Park

Must-Try Flavours:

• Fresh seafood on the Wellington waterfront
• Craft beer at a local brewery

Day 5: Explore Wellington

What to Do:

• Visit Te Papa Museum
• Optional: Take a guided LOTR location tour
• Shop for souvenirs and Middle-earth memorabilia

Final Tip:

• The Interislander Ferry to the South Island departs from here — perfect if you’re doing the full LOTR loop!

🌍 Travel Planning Resources

These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels — from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport, and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.

• ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Kiwi.com and Aviasales for flexible, affordable options.
• 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond
• 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Booking.com, Hotellook or TripAdvisor
• 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
• 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
• 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday
• 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
• 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US

🧭 Some booking links can be shy around VPNs! If one doesn’t open, try turning off your VPN or switching to a secure Wi-Fi network.