Half Day in Middle Earth - Lord of the Rings Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Epic Adventures to the Real Middle Earth and Back Again!
Join our Lord of the Rings “Nerds” aka tour guides who have superior knowledge on all things “Rings”. We’ll take you to the original film locations and put YOU in the scene while narrating humorous and intriguing tales from the time of filming. Join us for your personalised journey through the real Middle Earth.
Our scenic Half Day Tour includes visiting Skippers Canyon Lookout (weather permitting), Arrowtown, The Gibbston Valley and Lake Hayes.
You will be able to enjoy Lord Of The Rings locations such as The Ford of Bruinen, The Gladden Fields, The Pillars of the Kings and More!
This tour includes Morning or Afternoon Tea and Snacks, Photos with Authentic Props as we have the largest selection of Authentic Licensed replica props!
We also have copies of the original scripts and production call sheets, adding so much more depth to your Middle Earth experience!
Available options
Half Day in Middle Earth - Lord of the Rings Tour
What's included
Morning/Afternoon Tea from the local Arrowtown Bakery
1 % of all proceeds go to the Love Queenstown Community Fund preserving our breathtaking landscapes.
Photos with Authentic Props - We have the largest selection of Authentic Licensed replica props!
We also have copies of the original scripts and production call sheets
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We head to the Skippers Canyon Lookout to view New Zealand's "Most Dangerous Road". Not only a spectacular view but also a Lord of the Rings Filming location located further within the Canyon. We stop afterwards at the nearby Coronet Viewpoint to taking in the surrounding views of the Wakatipu Basin and navigate our journeys plan from a birds eye perspective.
(These stops are weather permitting)
2
Awarded New Zealand's 'Most Beautiful Small Town' award in 2020 and 2023. We learn about the gold rush history of this rustic yet charming village the seems to appear right out of the 1800's. We explore 2 Lord of the Rings filming locations a short walk from town, followed by morning or afternoon tea in this quaint village.
3
Central Otago's Premier Wine Region. Here we visit an epic Lord of the Rings filming location learning stories of the production along with the winegrowing history. Here we also witness dare devils jumping from the world's first commercial bungee jump from the Historic Kawarau Bridge.
4
We head to this picturesque serene lake, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains right out of Middle Earth. We spend some time here soaking in the serenity and playing with our Authentic Replica Props. Dress up as you favourite LOTR characters and weild lifelike swords, daggers, axes and helmets from your favourite fantasy trilogy!
5
We head to the breathtaking Wakatipu Lookout where beneath the towering Remarkables Mountains we have one last look upon this spectacular landscape that inspired the filming of the epic Lord of the Rings trilogy. We point out several filming locations and take photo's from the locals best kept secret lookout, towering over the resort town of Queenstown.
What's not included
For children under 7 please bring child seat or message us to arrange one at an additional charge
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
37 reviews
5★
37
4★
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3★
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2★
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1★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
190 reviews
5★
190
4★
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3★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travel time between locations was included on the total tour duration.
Not recommended for travelers who cannot walk more than 10mins on uneven ground. There is 1 walk where people unable to walk may have to wait for up to 20 mins.
Meeting point
In front of the station building on the corner of Camp St and Shotover St. There are wooden benches for waiting right where the buses pull up.
About Queenstown
Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities. This vibrant town offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both excitement and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Queenstown Garden
Queenstown Garden is a beautiful public garden located in the heart of the city. It offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Skyline Queenstown
Skyline Queenstown offers a range of activities, including the Skyline Gondola, Luge rides, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the city and lake.
Adventure
2-3 hours
Moderate to Expensive
Arrowtown Chinese Settlement
Arrowtown Chinese Settlement is a historic site that showcases the lives of Chinese miners during the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lamb
New Zealand lamb is renowned for its tender texture and rich flavor. It's often served with seasonal vegetables and local wines.
Main Course
Contains meat
Green-Lipped Mussels
Green-lipped mussels are a delicacy in New Zealand, known for their unique flavor and texture. They're often served steamed with garlic, wine, and herbs.
Appetizer
Contains shellfish
Pavlova
Pavlova is a popular dessert in New Zealand, made with a crisp meringue shell, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Dessert
Contains eggs and dairy
Popular Activities
Bungee jumping
Skydiving
Jet boating
Hiking
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Scenic cruises
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and a wide range of outdoor activities. It's ideal for hiking, water sports, and exploring the great outdoors.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Queenstown is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution when engaging in adventure activities and be aware of the weather conditions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Queenstown Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Queenstown Bus Interchange
Getting around
Public transport
Orion buses provide reliable and affordable transportation throughout Queenstown and to nearby attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Queenstown
Frankton
Arrowtown
Day trips
Milford Sound
120 km from Queenstown • Full day
Milford Sound is a stunning fjord known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife. A day trip to Milford Sound includes a scenic drive and a boat cruise through the fjord.
Glenorchy
45 km from Queenstown • Half day to Full day
Glenorchy is a charming village nestled at the head of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It's a great base for hiking, horse riding, and other outdoor activities.
Wanaka
65 km from Queenstown • Full day
Wanaka is a picturesque town known for its stunning lake and mountain views, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene. It's a great destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Festivals
Queenstown Winter Festival • June
Gibbston Valley Winter Festival • July
Arrowtown Autumn Festival • April
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Book accommodations, tours, and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
- Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Try local specialties like lamb, green-lipped mussels, and pavlova.
- Explore beyond the city center and visit nearby attractions like Arrowtown and Glenorchy.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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