New Zealand’s spectacular scenery and delightful climate have made it a sought-after destination for filmmakers, resulting in Wellington being designated a UNESCO City of Film. This has also led to the development of exciting and popular tourism experiences in the country.
Explore some of the film attractions in New Zealand.
The Hobbiton Movie Set
The Lord of the Rings trilogy directed by Peter Jackson and inspired by J. R. R. Tolkien’s book has become one of the most successful film series ever created. The beautiful landscapes in the Waikato region of the upper North Island served as the ideal backdrop for the fictional world of Middle-earth.
Visitors now come in droves to the charming 1,250-acre sheep farm, located 45 minutes from Cambridge, to immerse themselves in the ‘actual’ shire where the hobbits reside.
At The Hobbiton Movie Set, guests can wander through the meticulously crafted hobbit dwellings, including Bag End, and enjoy a complimentary beverage at The Green Dragon Inn. The level of detail in the set design is truly remarkable.
Weta Workshop
Established by Richard Taylor and Tania Rodger, the Weta Workshop offers film studio tours and interactive creative workshops. Visitors can explore immersive sets displaying costumes and props from various productions.
The Auckland workshop takes visitors on a journey through horror, fantasy, and science fiction realms, while the Wellington location offers insights into special effects and the art of make-believe.
Rivendell in Kaitoke Regional Park
Nature enthusiasts can venture into the park chosen as the backdrop for Rivendell in The Lord of the Rings. A guided trail leads to Elrond’s abode, where visitors can capture moments by the ornate arch donated by the filmmakers.
Information boards along the trail offer a glimpse into the movie-making process and the significance of Rivendell.
If you desire a thorough exploration of Lord of the Rings filming sites in Wellington, consider Nathan Clear’s tours offered by Wanderlust Tourism Group Limited.
Superhero Exhibition
The Wellington Convention Centre hosted the global premiere of ‘Marvel: Earth’s Mightiest Exhibition,’ showcasing authentic props, interactive displays, and installations delving into the cinematic and comic world of Marvel.
Beloved superheroes like Spiderman and Captain America take center stage in this immersive exhibit commemorating Marvel’s 85-year legacy.
Chocolate Factory
The Wellington Chocolate Factory presents workshops where visitors can explore the art of chocolate making. Owners Gabe Davidson and Rochelle Alagar are committed to producing top-notch, ethically-sourced cocoa and improving the livelihoods of farmers.
Participants have the opportunity to craft their own chocolate bars during the workshop and savor a complimentary hot chocolate before taking their creations home.
Image Source: Rudy Balasko / Shutterstock
