A vibrant city of harbours, beaches and islands, Auckland is known as the “City of Sails”. Catch a ferry to one of the islands dotted just offshore from the city. See more must do experiences in Auckland.

Waiheke is known for its vineyards, sandy white beaches and quirky galleries, while Rangitoto is a dormant volcano laced with spectacular walking tracks. Many of the islands are within a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. 

From Auckland, head south to Matamata - home to Hobbiton, where The Shire is brought to life. Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour now.

Take a guided tour and experience this magical piece of Middle‑earth for yourself - all 44 Hobbit-holes have been rebuilt exactly as they appeared on film. Once you've worked up a thirst, stop for a handle of sobering thought ale at the Green Dragon Inn or Good George Brewery (where Hobbiton beverages come from).

Journey by car to Waitomo. Enjoy a guided tour of the world-famous Glowworm Caves, which includes a magical underground boat ride to view the millions of twinkling glowworms on the cavern roof. Continue driving over the forested Mamaku Ranges to reach the “Thermal City” of Rotorua. 

Explore the Central Plateau and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing - often described as New Zealand's greatest day walk. Take in the stark volcanic landscapes and visit Mt Ngauruhoe which featured as 'Mt Doom' in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy.

See more must do experiences in Ruapehu here.

Located at the southernmost tip of the North Island, Wellington is home to Weta Workshop and the Weta Cave. It's a city with a passion for art, coffee and fantastic food & wine. From here, take the Interislander Ferry to Picton. 

Nelson is known as the sunniest region in New Zealand. Seek out Jens Hansen Goldsmith, maker of the 'One Ring' and many other Tolkien-themed items, before journeying deep into the Abel Tasman National Park. You won't be disapointed by the stunning beaches and native forest.

See more top experiences to do in Nelson and Tasman.

Spend a day whale watching in Kaikoura. Whales thrive close to the coastline here because of its unusual submarine landscape. The continental shelf drops quickly into a number of extremely deep underwater canyons. It's one of the few places in the world that you can get up close to these magnificent creatures. See more Whale-watching tours and Albatross watching tours.

See top experiences to do in Kaikoura. 

Drive down the coast to reach Christchurch, an eclectic city of elegance and contemporary culture. Cycle along the picturesque Avon River, mountain bike down well-worn tracks in the Port Hills and enjoy delicious dining options in the central city. 

Visit Aoraki/Mt Cook, the highest peak in Australasia. Stop off at Lake Pukaki, where the cerulean colour of the pure glacial waters are a photographer's dream.

Heli skiing, heli hiking and aerial sightseeing provide visitors with amazing memories. The surrounding country provided a slew of filming locations for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, and there are plenty of local tours that will show you the highlights. 

See more top experiences to do in Mackenzie region.

Journey through the mountains via the Crown Range, the highest main road in New Zealand. Plan to allow time to stop and admire the astounding views along the way - the photo opportunities are magical. 

Surrounded by stunning mountains and a crystal-clear lake, Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s top visitor destinations. Take a tour of local filming locations with Lord of the Rings experts Nomad Safaris. Paradise, Glenorchy at the far end of Lake Wakatipu lives up to its name and is a must-visit.

While you're in Queenstown, a day trip to Milford Sound shouldn't be missed. Fly in and out (or drive one way) to save time and enjoy a leisurely cruise through the fiord. Nearby filming locations: Takaro Rd (Fangorn Forest), Norwest Lakes (South of Rivendell), Waiau River and Kepler Track (River Anduin), Te Anau Downs Station.

 Discover more top experiences to do in Queenstown.