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 → 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 3: Piopio (Trollshaw Forest) → 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:
- 🚌DOC campground: Mangahuia DOC Campsite
- 🏕️ Campground: Whakapapa Holiday Park
Travel Tip:
- Weather can change rapidly — pack layers and start early if hiking.
Day 4: Tongariro National Park (Mount Doom) → 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!
Why Book Your Campervan with Motorhome Republic?
With dozens of trusted rental brands in one place, Motorhome Republic makes it easy to compare, choose and book the right campervan for your Aotearoa – New Zealand adventure. From budget-friendly options to premium motorhomes, you’ll find something that suits your travel style and trip length.
We love recommending them because their booking process is simple, their customer service is excellent and they work with top suppliers across the country. Whether you’re picking up in Auckland, Christchurch or somewhere in between — it’s a hassle-free way to get on the road faster.
“Booking was easy, support was great and we got the perfect camper for our road trip. It was exactly what we hoped for.”
— Feedback from a Motorhome Republic customer
🌿Looking for more travel inspiration?
- Read about the Best Times to Visit Aotearoa – New Zealand
- Improve your cultural connection by Mastering Māori Pronunciation
- Have a laugh with our fun Kiwi Slang Guide
- Explore 10 Enchanting Landscapes you won’t want to miss
🌍 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 Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
- 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
- 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
- 🚐 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.
- 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
- 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
- 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
- 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.
🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.
Whāia te iti kahurangi, ki te tuohu koe, me he maunga teitei
Pursue that which is precious, and do not be deterred by anything less than a lofty mountain