Name: Wellington's Original LOTR Experience - includes Weta and Lunch
SKU: 2964001RRT
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (614 reviews)

WizardTrip

Wellington's Original LOTR Experience - includes Weta and Lunch

4.8(614)· Wellington· By Wellington Rings Tours Watch the video

Free cancellationLikely to sell out

From

€169per person

1 to 20 travelers per booking.

Options1 of 2 available on this day

Time

1 × Adult × €169€169

Total€169

About the activity

Embark on an all-inclusive, full-day adventure in Wellington, the heart of Middle-earth. You'll explore iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings, savor a delightful lunch, and visit the renowned Weta Workshop, the creative hub behind the films. As Wellington's pioneering Lord of the Rings tour, established in 2002 (formerly Rover Rings Tours, now Welly Rings Tours), we are passionate about showcasing Wellington as Middle-earth. Our guides, many of whom are passionate fans and some even involved in the film's production, will share unique insights and stories about the making of these epic movies.

What's included

✓Weta Workshop tour and a Hobbit-worthy lunch are included in the tour price.
✓Visit the most significant LOTR filming locations. Please note that no original sets remain from the filming.
✓Convenient pick-up and drop-off services are available directly from cruise ships, ensuring you never miss your departure.
✓The tour is proudly owned and operated by dedicated fans, including some who contributed to the films.
✓Benefit from expert guides with valuable experience in the film industry.
✓Guaranteed timely drop-off back at your Cruise Ship. We have maintained a perfect record for on-time drop-offs for 15 years.
✓Enjoy a bonus native forest walk through a stunning 1000-year-old temperate rainforest.
✓Central Wellington pick-up service is provided.

What is not included

✕Gratuities for guides are not included.

Itinerary

1
Weta Workshop Experiences
Immerse yourself in the world of Wellywood with a visit to Weta Workshop, the special effects company responsible for crafting all the props, armor, weapons, costumes, miniatures, and prosthetics for The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films. Discover the secrets of cinematic magic through a behind-the-scenes tour led by a Weta employee, who will illuminate the creative processes involved in bringing these fantasy worlds to life. You'll also have opportunities to pose for photos with various characters and props, and perhaps find a special souvenir to take home.
· 1 h 30 min· Admission included
2
Mount Victoria Lookout
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and harbor from the Mount Victoria lookout. Your guide will point out significant landmarks and assist with capturing memorable photos. Mount Victoria is a must-see in Wellington, and we've made it easy for you to experience its beauty without the strenuous climb!
· 15 min
3
Embassy Theatre
We'll drive past the Embassy Theatre, which hosted the world premieres for two of the Middle-earth films: The Return of the King and An Unexpected Journey. Your guide will share captivating stories and visuals of how Wellington was transformed into the heart of Middle-earth.
· Non-stop passage
4
Mount Victoria
Descend into the lush, forested slopes of the Outer Shire, where our knowledgeable guides will detail the filmmaking process and share engaging anecdotes about the creation of The Lord of the Rings. Follow in the footsteps of Frodo and the Hobbits on their perilous journey, encountering iconic spots like the 'shortcut to mushrooms' and the scene where they evade the Black Riders before escaping to the Buckleberry Ferry. This is your chance to recreate legendary scenes from The Fellowship of the Ring and create fantastic content for your social media.
· 1 h
5
Aston Norwood Gardens
Indulge in a feast fit for a Hobbit at Aston Norwood Gardens, a perfect opportunity to refuel before continuing your exploration of film locations in the afternoon.
· 1 h· Admission included
6
Poet's Park
Visit a section representing the Great River Anduin, as the Fellowship navigates their way towards Parth Galen.
· 15 min
7
Harcourt Park
Explore Harcourt Park, also known as the Gardens of Isengard. Witness how this ordinary park was transformed into the backdrop for scenes where Gandalf sought counsel from Saruman and the wizards discussed their plans. This is also where the Orcs began their destructive work after Saruman's turn to darkness...
· 30 min
8
Kaitoke Regional Park
Discover Kaitoke Regional Park, a magnificent thousand-year-old temperate rainforest that served as the breathtaking location for Rivendell, the last homely house east of the sea. Immerse yourself in this magical setting and learn how the area was adapted to represent Elrond's house, Frodo's bedroom, and the bridge where Arwen and Aragorn shared a tender moment. Unleash your inner Elf with a photo recreating a famous Legolas pose, and then capture the scene of Frodo leading the Fellowship towards Mordor by posing before the Rivendell gate tower – the only Lord of the Rings replica structure in New Zealand outside of Hobbiton. You'll also see the Fords of Isen, where Eomund was found by Eomer at the beginning of The Two Towers. Cross a swing bridge, visit an ancient 800-year-old native Rimu tree, and learn about New Zealand's unique flora and fauna.
· 1 h· Admission included

How to use your ticket

Your mobile or paper ticket will be accepted. One ticket is required per booking.

Meeting point and return

Be aware that your pick-up may be scheduled up to 15 minutes before or after the confirmed departure time. You will be notified of this change 24-48 hours before your tour.

For passengers arriving by cruise ship, please select 'Cruise Ship Independent Tour Car Park' when making your booking.

Please be ready at the main entrance of your hotel unless otherwise instructed. Some hotel pick-ups may require you to meet a short distance away to ensure safe stopping.

Kindly note that we are unable to pick up from every hotel or Airbnb in the suburban areas. If your accommodation is not listed, please provide your own pick-up location, and we will contact you to arrange the most convenient meeting point. If you are staying outside Wellington City and plan to drive in, we suggest parking on Barnett Street, adjacent to Te Papa Museum.

Please note that pick-up times may vary slightly from the advertised start time, depending on the number of bookings.

If you are joining the tour from the cruise terminal, please be ready 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

Practical information

Public transportation options are conveniently located nearby.
Specialized infant seats are available upon request.
Participants should possess a moderate level of physical fitness.
This tour is not recommended for individuals using walkers or with limited mobility.
Please inform us of any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking.

Activity options

Wellington's Original LOTR FD
Pickup included
LOTR FD for CRUISE PAX ONLY
Pickup included

Duration

8 h

How to prepare for your experience

Wear comfortable walking shoes as there will be some walking involved.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery and film locations.
Inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions in advance.
Be prepared for Wellington's changeable weather; layers are recommended.
Allow ample time for pick-up, especially if joining from the cruise terminal.
Engage with your guide to learn the most fascinating behind-the-scenes stories.

Journey into Middle-earth with Wellington's original and most authentic Lord of the Rings experience, including Weta Workshop and a Hobbit-inspired lunch.

Cancellation conditions

To receive a full refund, please ensure your cancellation is made at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Any questions?

Product code: 2964001RRT

Activity offered by Wellington Rings Tours via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

Fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films
Movie enthusiasts
Tourists visiting Wellington
Individuals interested in film production

Activity essentials

Explore iconic Lord of the Rings filming locations around Wellington.
Visit the world-famous Weta Workshop and learn about movie magic.
Enjoy a delicious lunch inspired by Hobbit feasts.
Benefit from expert guides with insider knowledge.
Experience stunning scenic views from Mount Victoria.
Walk through the magical forests of Rivendell (Kaitoke Regional Park).

Wellington: good to know

Population: 216,200 (2023)
Elevation: 0 m
Currency: New Zealand dollar
Official languages: Māori, English
Driving: on the left
Power plugs: I · 230 V
Emergency number: 111

Average temperatures

17°Jan
17°Feb
16°Mar
14°Apr
12°May
11°Jun
10°Jul
10°Aug
11°Sept
12°Oct
13°Nov
15°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What is included in the tour?

The tour includes a Weta Workshop visit, a Hobbit-worthy lunch, visits to LOTR filming locations, pick-up and drop-off services, and a native forest walk.

Can I get picked up from my hotel?

Yes, central Wellington pick-up is included. If your hotel is not listed, you can provide your own pick-up location, and we will advise the best meeting point. Cruise ship passengers have a designated pick-up point.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

The tour is not recommended for participants with walkers or limited mobility due to some walking involved. Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.

Do I need to bring anything?

It's recommended to bring a camera and wear comfortable shoes. Please advise any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking.

Reviews

4.84.8(614)

5 stars

537

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Full Day LOTR Fun
I3817EAtiffanyc, October 2026
Our 8-person family group, with members ranging from age teens to septuagenarians, spent a great day with Grant from Wanderlust Tourism for Wellington's Original Lord of the Rings (LOTR) Full Day Experience including Weta Workshop and cafe lunch in October 2026. Grant shared fascinating insights about our LOTR tour destinations and the filming, moving seamlessly between the film production and books. He was also great about sharing his expertise in Wellington-area history, flora, and fauna as we traveled in a large, comfortable van with more than enough room for our group. Thanks for the friendly, professional service throughout the day, highly recommend!
★★★★★Viator review
Wywy was hilarous and...
Dane_H, October 2026
Wywy was hilarous and great to talk to, one of the coolest tours ive done. Loved seeing all of the behind the scenes models and props
Response from the operator · Nathan C
Thanks, Dane! Wywy definitely knows how to keep things fun! Glad you enjoyed the tour and getting a closer look at the props and models behind the movies. Thx for the review!
★★★★★Viator review
Must-do for all LOTR fans!
Joyce_K, October 2026
Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about all things LOTR and was an excellent storyteller! I thoroughly enjoyed the Weta Workshop tour and seeing all the amazing props and costumes that were made for movies other than LOTR. Seeing the film locations with the sets no longer there required your imagination—but you can’t be an LOTR fan without one.
Response from the operator · Nathan C
Thanks, Joyce! That’s where our guides come in, bringing the filming locations to life with the stories behind the scenes. Glad you enjoyed the tour and Wētā Workshop!
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Fun LOTR Tour
smichaela92, September 2026
Such an awesome way to see some of the filming locations from LOTR, learn lots about how the movies were made and see some beautiful scenery around Wellington. The tour guide was fantastic and knowledgeable and the lunch was great. Overall really great day and highly recommend doing
Response from the operator · Nathan C
Thanks for the great review! Glad you enjoyed the tour, the scenery and the lunch. It’s always nice to share a bit of LOTR magic with fellow fans!
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Amazing guide
Epleterte, September 2026
We had the best guide on our tour; Marc. Ha was a Ringwraith, an elf, a Gondorian, a Rohirrim and a bunch of other things in the original films and had so many great stories to tell from the set and from behind the scenes. Being on the actual locations are cool on its own, but it’s a different thing entirely when you’re there with someone who worked on the films, both behind and in front of the camera. Marc’s passion for the films and everything Tolkien radiates and really elevated the whole experience.
Response from the operator · Nathan C
Thanks for your great feedback! We actually have several guides who worked on the films and other who have other film industry experience, so we're well placed to share stories that you won't be able to find anywhere else.

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Frequently asked questions about Wellington

What is there to do in Wellington?

Wellington has 7 activities, tours and day trips you can book online. Among the most booked: « Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour », « Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast », « Overnight Experience Tour on Kapiti Island ».

What are the top-rated activities in Wellington?

According to traveller reviews: « Overnight Experience Tour on Kapiti Island » (4.9/5, 482 reviews) ; « Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast » (4.9/5, 363 reviews) ; « Discover Wellington 3 hour City Tour » (4.9/5, 356 reviews).

Can you cancel an activity in Wellington for free?

Usually, yes: 7 of the 7 most popular activities in Wellington offer free cancellation. The exact terms are shown on each activity page before you book.

What is there to visit near Wellington?

Close to Wellington: Picton, Blenheim.