The Lord of the Rings Filming Locations You Can Visit
New Zealand is widely known as the real-life Middle-earth, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes that brought J.R.R. Tolkien’s world to life in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy. If you’re a fan of the films or simply want to explore stunning locations, here are some must-visit filming spots across New Zealand.
Lord of the Rings Filming Locations
1. Hobbiton – Matamata
Scene: The peaceful Shire, home of the hobbits.
Location: 501 Buckland Road, Hinuera, Matamata 3472, New Zealand
GPS Coordinates: -37.8722, 175.6821
Nestled in the rolling green hills of Matamata, Hobbiton is one of the most iconic Lord of the Rings filming locations. The movie set was rebuilt permanently after the films and is now a major tourist attraction. Visitors can explore Bag End, visit the Green Dragon Inn, and walk through the charming hobbit holes.
2. Mount Sunday – Edoras (Canterbury Region)
Scene: The capital of Rohan, Edoras.
Location: Hakatere Potts Rd, Ashburton Lakes, Canterbury, New Zealand
GPS Coordinates: -43.5486, 170.9725
Mount Sunday, located in the Ashburton Lakes District, served as the site for Edoras, the capital of Rohan. Although the set was dismantled after filming, the breathtaking landscapes remain. You can take guided tours that provide insights into how the set was built and the scenes filmed here.
3. Tongariro National Park – Mordor
Scene: Mount Doom, the stronghold of Sauron.
Location: Tongariro National Park, New Zealand
GPS Coordinates: -39.2900, 175.5620
Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provided the ominous landscape for Mordor. Mount Ngauruhoe, an active volcano, served as Mount Doom, where Frodo and Sam embarked on their final journey to destroy the One Ring. Hikers can take the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing to experience the dramatic scenery firsthand.
4. Glenorchy – Isengard and Lothlórien
Scene: Saruman’s stronghold, Isengard, and the mystical elven forest, Lothlórien.
Location: Glenorchy, Otago, New Zealand
GPS Coordinates: -44.8506, 168.3819
Located near Queenstown, Glenorchy’s pristine landscapes were transformed into two key locations: Isengard and Lothlórien. The area’s towering mountains and lush forests made for perfect cinematic backdrops. Several guided tours depart from Queenstown, allowing fans to explore these magical locations.
5. Fiordland National Park – Fangorn Forest
Scene: Home of the Ents, Fangorn Forest. Location: Fiordland National Park, Southland, New Zealand GPS Coordinates: -45.4159, 167.7186
Fiordland National Park’s dense beech forests were used to depict Fangorn Forest, where Merry and Pippin meet Treebeard. Walking through these towering ancient trees gives visitors the feeling of stepping straight into Middle-earth. The park is also home to stunning fjords and waterfalls.
6. Putangirua Pinnacles – Paths of the Dead
Scene: Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli travel through the Paths of the Dead.
Location: Cape Palliser, Wairarapa, New Zealand
GPS Coordinates: -41.4617, 175.1833
The eerie rock formations of Putangirua Pinnacles in the Wairarapa region provided the backdrop for the spooky Paths of the Dead sequence. A hiking trail leads visitors through the otherworldly stone spires, making for a fantastic adventure for Lord of the Rings enthusiasts.
7. Twizel – Pelennor Fields
Scene: The Battle of Pelennor Fields.
Location: Twizel, Mackenzie District, Canterbury, New Zealand
GPS Coordinates: -44.2483, 170.0910
The vast plains near Twizel were used for the epic battle scene in The Return of the King. This is where the Riders of Rohan charge against Sauron’s forces. While no set remains, the panoramic views of the Mackenzie Basin provide an unforgettable experience.
8. Kawarau Gorge – The Pillars of the Kings
Scene: The Anduin River journey featuring the Argonath (Pillars of the Kings).
Location: Kawarau Gorge, Central Otago, New Zealand
GPS Coordinates: -45.0143, 169.1972
Near Queenstown, Kawarau Gorge was used for the river journey scene where the Fellowship paddles past the giant Argonath statues. Though the statues were added digitally, the stunning gorge and river setting remain a must-visit for fans.
9. Tūroa – Ithilien Camp
Scene: Frodo, Sam, and Gollum witness the battle between Faramir’s men and the Southrons.
Location: Tūroa, Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand
GPS Coordinates: -39.3039, 175.5503
Tūroa, located on Mount Ruapehu, served as Ithilien, where Frodo and Sam encounter Faramir. The lush forest and dramatic cliffs make for a scenic stop on any Lord of the Rings tour.
10. Nelson – Chetwood Forest
Scene: Aragorn leads the hobbits through the wilds after leaving Bree.
Location: Nelson, South Island, New Zealand
GPS Coordinates: -41.2706, 173.2840
Nelson’s rugged forests were used to depict Chetwood Forest, where Aragorn guides the hobbits to safety. The area offers numerous hiking trails, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the landscapes of Middle-earth.
