Footsteps of Film

Footsteps of Film

Discover the magic of the big screen brought to life through the dramatic and beautiful landscapes of New Zealand. This is nature at its best and the inspiration that has fired the imagination of many film directors over the years. From the Lord of the Rings trilogy to the Narnia Chronicles, and from King Kong to the Last Samurai, the diversity of the New Zealand landscape brings the stories to life and portrays the vision without the need for special effects.

Our suggested self-drive itinerary gives you the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the film maker as you discover one of the most awe-inspiring and diverse countries in the world.

What's Included:

• Return international flights.
• 15 nights in hotels (accommodation as specified or similar).
• 14 days' compact car hire.
• Interislander Ferry Crossing
• Unlimited mileage
• Travel Kit, including maps

Day 1 - 3: Auckland

Once you have arrived at Auckland airport make your way to your hotel where the afternoon is yours to relax or to explore the ‘City of Sails’. Auckland is New Zealand’s largest and most vibrant city, offering an exciting array of cosmopolitan experiences. Discover world-class cuisine, boutique wineries, black sand beaches and stunning rain forests. Whilst in Auckland hop on a ferry and explore some of the neighbouring islands.
Overnight - Park Regis Auckland

Day 3 - 4: Auckland - Hamilton, via Matamata (141 miles)

Collect your hire car and head south of Auckland towards green pastures, rolling hills and the unique attraction of Matamata. Take a Movie Set tour and enjoy a guided experience through Hobbiton. Many of the structures from the films remain intact. Hamilton is a place of of fierce and proud history where the Maori Land Wars were fought, and today boasts stunning parks, gardens and river walks. Drive to the Waitomo Caves where the natural beauty lit by the blue light of the resident glow-worms will take your breath away.
Overnight - Kingsgate Hotel Hamilton

Day 4 - 6: Hamilton - Tongariro National Park (136 miles)

The Tongariro National Park is legendary for its dramatic an eerie scenery. Thanks to its geologically turbulent past the area provided the perfect raw material to create vivid scenes, instantly recognisable from the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Whilst here follow in the footsteps of the characters by walking the Tongariro Crossing, often described as one of the best one-day walks in the world.
Overnight - The Park Travellers Lodge

Day 6 - 8: Tongariro National Park - Wellington (200 miles)

Nestled between rolling green hills and a stunning harbour, the city of Wellington has been nicknamed 'Wellywood' in recent years due to its importance to the film industry. Weta Caves is a mini museum where you will come face to face with some of the characters, props and displays from recent blockbusters.
Overnight - Ibis Wellington

Day 8 - 10: Wellington - Nelson (70 miles)

The passage across Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds is one of the most scenic ferry trips in the world. The Nelson region itself is know for year-round sunshine, golden beaches, boutique wineries, and a wonderfully relaxed lifestyle. Easily accessible is the Abel Tasman National Park, one of the most scenic areas in the country.
Overnight - Grand Hotel Monaco, Nelson

Day 10 - 11: Nelson - Hanmer Springs (175 miles)

Today's drive takes you through spectacular gorges and past pristine lakes. Hanmer Springs is the ultimate destination for relaxation and indulgence where you can soak in the hot springs or treat yourself to a range of spa therapies.
Overnight - Heritage Hanmer Springs

Day 11 - 13: Hanmer Springs - Christchurch (85 miles)

En route to Christchurch make a stop in the Waipara region, lauded for its fantastic food and wine and an excellent place to stop for lunch. Christchurch itself promises an eclectic mix of historic elegance and contemporary culture.
Overnight - Ibis Christchurch

Day 13 - 14: Christchurch - Twizel (175 miles)

Twizel provides the perfect base from which to explore the Mount Cook National Park. Film buffs will instantly recognise the surrounding landscape - pick up a location guidebook and take a tour of the key sites.
Overnight: Omahau Downs, Twizel

Day 14 - 16: Twizel - Queenstown (124 miles)

Queenstown is awash with a host of activities from river rafting to magical film tours. There are plenty of guided tours on offer that allow you to discover instantly recognisable film locations and stunning scenery.
Overnight - Mercure Queenstown Resort

Day 16: Depart Queenstown

This morning drop your hire car off at the airport and continue with your onward arrangements.