Where Was Lord Of The Rings Filmed? Your Guide to the New Zealand Filming Locations

Set off on an exploration of Middle Earth through breathtaking locations where the LOTR trilogy came to life. New Zealand’s awe-inspiring landscapes served as the canvas for the epic adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved novels by Sir Peter Jackson. Join us as we venture through the North and South Islands, discovering the real-world locations that morphed into the unforgettable settings for the Lord of the Rings films.

Lord Of The Rings Filming Locations in New Zealand’s North Island

The North Island’s rolling hills boasted some of the most iconic and instantly recognisable real-life film locations for any ardent Lord of the Rings fan.

Matamata – Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours (The Shire)

Step into the whimsical world of hobbits as you explore the Hobbiton™ Movie Set in Matamata. Meander through verdant gardens and quaint hobbit holes, and cap off your visit with a refreshing brew at the Green Dragon Inn. The extraordinary attention to detail will whisk you away into the very heart of the Shire.

Tongariro – Mordor, Mount Doom, and the Forbidden Pool

The rugged, volcanic terrain of Tongariro National Park was the perfect stand-in for the dark lands of Mordor. Trek the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to witness Mount Ngauruhoe, which portrayed the ominous Mount Doom, and stop at Tawhai Falls, featured as Gollum’s fishing pool in The Two Towers.

Wellington – Gardens of Isengard, Paths of the Dead, and the Battle for Helm’s Deep

Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city and home of the WETA workshop, played host to numerous filming locations. One of Wellington’s most iconic filming spots within walking distance of the city is the forest on Mount Victoria, depicted as Hobbiton Woods.

Wellington also showcased its scenic diversity with other filming locales, such as Kaitoke Regional Park, which transformed into Rivendell, the ethereal home of the elves. The lush surroundings of Harcourt Park were transformed into the Gardens of Isengard, and the eerie Putangirua Pinnacles set the ghostly tone for the Paths of the Dead. The ‘most epic battle’ in the trilogy, the Battle for Helm’s Deep, was filmed at the nearby Dry Creek Quarry.

Lord Of The Rings Filming Locations in New Zealand’s South Island

The South Island’s dramatic vistas framed many of the trilogy’s iconic scenes.

Nelson and Abel Tasman – Search for the ‘One Ring’, Chetwood Forest, Dimrill Dale, and the Mines of Moria

Takaka Hill provided the mysterious woods of Chetwood Forest, guiding the hobbits as they escaped the Black Riders. A helicopter tour to Mount Owen offers a panoramic view of Dimrill Dale, the exit of the Mines of Moria. Nearby, Salisbury Falls cascades through Kahurangi National Park, the rendezvous point for Tauriel and Legolas.

Canterbury – Lake Town, Edoras, and Battle of the Pelennor Fields

The tranquil Lake Pukaki and the imposing Southern Alps backdrop the cinematic Lake Town, while Mount Sunday rises as the iconic city of Edoras. The Battle of the Pelennor Fields was set on private land near Twizel; however, you can organise a guided tour to recreate the saga’s pivotal battle.

West Coast – The Lighting of the Beacons

The cinematic moment of the Lighting of the Beacons, signalling Gondor’s call for aid was captured against the backdrop of Mount Gunn.

Queenstown – The River Anduin, Rohan, and the Misty Mountain pathways

Queenstown was the backdrop for numerous locations in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, including the Kawarau River as the Anduin River and Deer Park Heights depicting Rohan. The Remarkables mountain range mirrored the Misty Mountains and the slopes of Dimrill Dale.

Take in the breathtaking views of these filming locations from Bob’s Peak, accessed via the Skyline Queenstown Gondola. While there, dine at the Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar for a panoramic dining experience overlooking Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding Rings locations.

Fiordland – The Dead Marshes, Nen Hithoel, and Fangorn Forest

The Kepler Mire portrayed the sinister Dead Marshes in The Two Towers. Mavora Lakes Park near Te Anau doubled as Nen Hithoel, the Fellowship’s encampment site, while Snowdon Forest in Fiordland National Park brought Fangorn Forest to life. South Mavora Lake beautifully set the stage for the iconic departure of the Fellowship from Lothlórien, and North Mavora Lake transformed into the serene backdrop where the Fellowship paddled south along the River Anduin.

Explore the incredible sights of Middle Earth and beyond with Skyline

New Zealand’s spellbinding landscapes continue to captivate the hearts of Lord of the Rings fans across the globe. After uncovering the magic of each Lord of the Rings filming location, we invite you to extend your adventure with Skyline Queenstown. Thrill-seekers can zoom down the tracks at the Skyline Queenstown Luge or immerse themselves in the natural beauty on a guided walk high above Queenstown. Further explore New Zealand’s cinematic wonders by visiting the Pete’s Dragon filming locations or unwind with the best breweries in Queenstown. We hope to see you soon!