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Stone-troll from the Hobbit at The Weta Cave & Workshop, Wellington, New Zealand — Stone-troll from the Hobbit at The Weta Cave & Workshop, Wellington

Destinations > Oceania > New Zealand > Wellington Activities and the Lord of the Rings film locations

Wellington, at the southwestern tip of the North Island has been the nation’s capital since 1865. In addition to being the centre of government, the city is also home to many of the nation’s cultural intuitions such as the National Archives, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal New Zealand Ballet. It’s also the main location of the country’s film and special effects industries, so there's a good number of the Lord of the Rings film locations around, not to mention a wide variety of Wellington activities and festivals. If you’re all about entertainment then Wellington is a must-stop on your New Zealand itinerary.

If you’re unfamiliar with the customs and culture of New Zealand, you can easily prepare yourself with this short read and multiply your understanding, and love, for this great country while you visit. It’ll certainly connect your experiences to New Zealand in a more profound way!

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Weta-Workshop entrance with a stone-troll outside near the doorway, Wellington

Where to Stay in Wellington, New Zealand

Wellington’s city center will give you the most options of places to stay, things to do, and food to eat. However, if you want to be close to Rivendell, one of the Lord of the Rings film locations that every fan should stop at, our recommendation is to stay at the Aston Norwood Chalets in Upper Hutt, if they aren’t completely booked up already!

How we Explored New Zealand on Less than $44 per day

Rivendell

There are a ton of Wellington activities in general, but also many exciting possibilities for LOTR fans. Just north of the city the Pakuratahui Regional Park near Upper Hutt is the real-life Rivendell. Visitors can enjoy the lovely scenery and views that the Fellowship did. Though the set structures were removed after filming, fans can visit a half-scale replica of the elven archway for pictures, and signs and maps point out the various sites where scenes were filmed. Entry to the park is free and it’s open from 6 a.m. until dusk, making it a must see stop for all LOTR fans!

Kaitoke Regional Park

The magical feel of the lowland rainforests of Kaitoke Regional Park make it easy to see why it was selected as the location for the home of the elves in the Lord of the Rings films. While Rivendell is a fictional place, the reality of the park more than lives up to the fantasy. The walking trails take visitors through mature forests that are home to rare local birds. A kayak trip down the Hutt River takes experienced kayakers over rapids and into landscapes that have been preserved for centuries. Whether it’s just for a picnic or for a multi-day excursion, it’s definitely worth making time in your itinerary to visit.

Bees on a honeycomb at New Zealand Beehive Ltd, Upper Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand — Bees on a honeycomb at New Zealand Beehive Ltd, Upper Hutt, Wellington

Manuka Honey

Fans of sweets may have heard of the New Zealand treat that is Manuka Honey. Produced by bees foraging solely on manuka flowers, the honey is unique to Australia and New Zealand where the trees grow. The rich, complex flavor of the honey, as well as the thick texture, make this honey a tasty treat. The rarity of the plants means that it can be quite expensive, but the unique flavor and texture definitely make it worth a try.

Check out Greytown Honey which is about 30 minutes east of Rivendell and Kaitoke Regional Park to get an inside look on how this honey is farmed, plus get a taste of some of the highest quality manuka honey in the region. A great Wellington activity that will round out your New Zealand culture experience.

Check it out Thursday through Sunday from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM (11 AM to 1 PM on Mondays) here.

The Weta Cave & Workshop

Another of the Lord of the Rings film locations that is a must-visit for movie fans is The Weta Cave & Workshop. Located in the Miramar suburb, this Wellington activity is an Academy Award-winning design and effects company that offers visitors tours and creative experiences where they can learn how their favorite fantasy characters were brought to life, make some creations of their own, or stop off in the Cave shop to bring some movie magic home with them. This is a popular spot, so it’s recommended that you book your tickets at least 3 days in advance.

The Weta Cave & Workshop is one of the main stops on the Cave to Coast Highlights guided tour as well as the Lord of the Rings City tour.

Cuba Street

Cuba Street is one of the most iconic and vibrant streets in Wellington, New Zealand. It is known for its eclectic mix of heritage buildings, creative culture, and diverse cuisine, meaning that strolling down this street is the #1 Wellington activity for anyone looking for food and culture. Here are some of the highlights of this street that you can explore and enjoy.

- Architecture: Cuba Street has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century, when it was named after a settler ship, the Cuba. The street features more than 40 historic buildings that span various styles, such as Edwardian, Art Deco, and weatherboard. Some of the notable landmarks include the Bucket Fountain, a quirky kinetic sculpture that splashes water into colourful buckets, the Opera House, a grand theatre that hosts live performances and events, and the St James Theatre, a majestic venue that showcases ballet, opera, and musicals.

- Culture: Cuba Street is the hub of Wellington's artistic and bohemian scene, attracting buskers, musicians, artists, and students. The street is home to many galleries, studios, record shops, bookshops, and music venues that showcase local and international talent. You can also find some of the city's best street art and murals along the walls and alleys of Cuba Street. The street hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the CubaDupa, a two-day celebration of music, dance, and street theatre.

- Cuisine: Cuba Street offers a wide range of dining options, from cafes and bakeries to restaurants and bars. You can find cuisines from all over the world, such as Asian, European, Middle Eastern, and Latin American. Some of the popular spots include Fidel's Cafe, a cosy cafe that serves Cuban-inspired food and coffee, The Old Quarter, a modern fusion restaurant that offers Asian dishes and cocktails, and Ortega Fish Shack, a fine dining restaurant that specializes in seafood and wine. You can also enjoy the nightlife and craft beer scene at the many pubs and clubs along Cuba Street.

Cuba Street is a must-visit Wellington activity for anyone who wants to experience the culture, history, and diversity of Wellington. It is a street that never sleeps, and always surprises.

The One Room Fan Museum

Kathy, the creator of The One Room Fan Museum, is perhaps the most dedicated and loyal Lord of the Rings (LOTR) fan that we've ever met, and her story - combined with the incredible people that she has met and corresponded with - is definitely worth hearing about. She has been a fan of the original books, written by J.R.R. Tolkien and brought to life by director Peter Jackson, for over 50 years!

If you're a small group, reach out to her at theoneroomfanmuseum.nz to set up a private meeting and she'll share with you her incredible fan adventure in a 30 minute video with in-person commentary.

While there, you'll also see all types of LOTR and Hobbit memorabilia, items, and artifacts from the beloved film series. You'll also get up close and personal with dozens of costumes that she, and her friends, created themselves. Over a 2-3 hour scene reenacting adventure, she'll allow you to dress up as Frodo, Gandalf, Galadriel, Arwin, and Aragorn while wielding replica weapons in iconic settings. This is the perfect way to gain a deeper appreciation for the attention to detail that contributed to the films' immersive atmosphere.

Kathy’s excitement while taking photos for you is truly authentic. You may even get to see a few special items that were donated to her from other fans or lent to her to show off in her home from studios!

It might sound strange to visit a random persons house, but if you've ever been a die hard fan of anything - sports team, band, Disney, other science fiction books or films, and especially the works of J.R.R. Tolkien - then you'll be in great company and understand her dedication. Just look at these photos and see how much fun we had here!

Huckle & Co.

Just a couple blocks away from the Weta Cave & Workshop is Huckle & Co., a fresh fish & chips favorite awaits your visit. Specializing in grilled, battered, and crumbled fish, this local hotspot also offers a variety of burgers - including vegetarian burgers (haloumi), gluten free fish, salads, scallops, mussels, oysters, and a wide variety of fried sides - including desserts like banana fritters, pineapple fritters, donuts, and deep fried Moro bars. If you’re into fish and chips, you’ll find this stop to be worthy of a stop or two!

Open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Find it at 31A Dundas St.

Check out the full day Wellington food tour to try a vast array of taste sensations which are not typically available during your regular travels.

Matairangi Nature Trail - Mt. Victoria

Matairangi Nature Trail, on Mt. Victoria, is a perfect example of how nature is present even in the heart of New Zealand’s cities. Just east of downtown Wellington, the mountain and its trails are easily accessed by walking or cycling paths, car, or public transportation.

Walking the nature path is a relaxing Wellington activity that takes visitors through a series of nature stations, engaging them with the environment and the creatures found in this particular habitat. While not wheelchair friendly, the gentle trail is largely accessible to the whole family. Plus, movie fans might be familiar with another one of the Lord of the Rings film locations here: where the hobbits hid from a ring wraith under some tree roots along the path!

See the spot where the hobbits hid under a tree from the Nazgul on a road at the end of hobbiton in the Fellowship of the Ring while on the small-group Wellington Lord of the Rings City Tour!

Mount Victoria Lookout

Mount Victoria Lookout in the heart of Wellington provides a different perspective on the ways in which New Zealanders have incorporated nature into their modern lives. With paths that can be accessed in minutes from downtown, the walks through the pine forest and the views from the top showcase a blending of nature into the landscape of the city. Various tracks and routes have different timings and difficulties, but whichever path you take to get there, the lookout view is breathtaking.

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Wellington is also home to the national museum, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, a merged National Museum and National Art Gallery. In the 1990s, the museum was restructured to offer an interdisciplinary experience of the diverse art and culture of the various people of New Zealand, both Tangata Whenua (Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand) and Tangata Tiriti (people in New Zealand by right of the Treaty of Waitangi).

The museum combines long-term cultural exhibits with interactive exhibitions and events to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of nation’s history, culture, and natural environment. Open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, the museum is free to all visitors and can get rather crowded, although some special exhibits, such as Gallipoli, and events do have fees.

Alternatively, you can book a 45-minute express tour at twilight, when it’s less crowded for a small fee.

The Crab Shack

Find this coastal themed casual waterfront dining experience at Queens Wharf. As you walk in, or sit outside on the wharf, you will feel the Cape Cod-inspired ambiance as you order any of their seafood specialties or their other options, including Vegan Tom Yum and Vege Fritters!

“Crabs, fish, mussels, tuatuas and much more – if it comes from the ocean we’re into it.”

The Crab Shack also has a wide selection of beers, colorful cocktails, a decent selection of wine and a few other drinks available as well. It’s a fun environment with friendly staff that will encourage you to put on a bib, get messy, and enjoy some delicious food and a reasonable price.

Check out the full day Wellington food tour to try a vast array of taste sensations which are not typically available during your regular travels.

Zealandia Ecosanctuary

Zealandia Ecosanctuary is a remarkable conservation project in Wellington, New Zealand, that aims to restore the native forest and wildlife to their pre-human state. It is the world's first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary, covering 225 hectares of land and protecting over 40 rare and endangered species. Zealandia has a 500-year vision to create a thriving ecosystem that connects people with nature and inspires them to take action for the environment.

Zealandia offers a variety of experiences for visitors, such as guided tours, self-guided walks, photography workshops, and educational programs. Visitors can explore the sanctuary valley and discover the rich biodiversity of plants and animals, including birds, reptiles, insects, and fish. Some of the highlights include seeing the tuatara, a living fossil that dates back to the dinosaur era; the takahē, a flightless bird that was once thought to be extinct; and the kiwi, the national icon of New Zealand.

Zealandia is also a great place for kids to have fun and learn about nature. Kids can enjoy the Kids' Night Walks, where they can search for nocturnal creatures like glow worms and kiwi under the stars. They can also join the Kids' Birthday Parties, where they can celebrate with their friends and a friendly guide in the sanctuary. Zealandia also offers school and early childhood education programs that align with the New Zealand curriculum and foster environmental awareness and stewardship.

Zealandia Ecosanctuary is a unique and inspiring destination that showcases the beauty and diversity of New Zealand's natural heritage. It is a must-see for anyone who loves nature and wants to support conservation efforts.

https://www.visitzealandia.com/

Wellington Zoo

Wellington Zoo is the world's first carboNZero certified zoo, meaning it has achieved net zero carbon emissions. It is home to more than 500 native and exotic animals, many of which are endangered or threatened. Wellington Zoo is passionate about connecting people with animals and saving animals in the wild, through conservation, education, and research programs.

Wellington Zoo offers a range of experiences for visitors, such as close encounters, behind the scenes tours, animal talks, and feeding times. Visitors can see and learn about animals from different regions of the world, such as Africa, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Some of the popular animals include the red panda, the chimpanzee, the sun bear, and the kiwi.

Wellington Zoo is also a fun place for kids to explore and discover nature. Kids can enjoy the Kids' Night Walks, where they can spot nocturnal animals like kiwi and morepork. They can also join the Zoo Sleepovers, where they can spend the night at the zoo and experience the animals after dark. Wellington Zoo also offers school and holiday programs that teach kids about animal welfare, biodiversity, and sustainability.

Wellington Zoo is a unique and inspiring destination that showcases the diversity and beauty of the animal kingdom. It is a must-visit for anyone who loves animals and wants to support wildlife conservation.

https://www.wellingtonzoo.com/

Wellington Cable Car and Botanical Gardens

The Wellington Cable Car and Botanical Gardens are two of the city's most iconic attractions, offering stunning views, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. The Cable Car is a historic and convenient way to travel from the central business district to the Kelburn Lookout and the top entrance of the Botanical Gardens. The Cable Car runs every 10 minutes and has four intermediate stations, each with its own charm and features.

The Botanical Gardens are a 25-hectare oasis of plants and flowers, featuring collections from different regions of the world, such as the Australian Garden, the Asian Garden, and the New Zealand Native Garden. The Gardens also have a variety of facilities and attractions, such as the Begonia House, the Treehouse Visitor Centre, the Duck Pond, and the Soundshell.

The Wellington Cable Car and Botanical Gardens are a great place for kids to have fun and learn about nature. Kids can enjoy the Cable Car Museum, which showcases the history and technology of the Cable Car, and the Space Place, which explores the wonders of the night sky. They can also join the Kids' Discovery Trail, which takes them on a scavenger hunt through the Botanical Gardens, or the Kids' Garden, which lets them play and grow their own plants.

The Wellington Cable Car and Botanical Gardens are a unique and inspiring destination that showcases the diversity and beauty of Wellington's natural and cultural heritage. They are a must-visit for anyone who loves nature and history.

https://www.wellingtoncablecar.co.nz/

Wellington Museum

The Wellington Museum is a heritage building that showcases the history, culture and art of the Wellington region, from the Polynesian navigator Kupe to the Wahine disaster. It is located on the waterfront, in a former cargo warehouse that was built in 1892.

The museum has several exhibitions and displays that tell the stories of Wellington and its people. You can explore the maritime history, the Māori and European settlement, the cultural landscape, and the natural environment of the city. You can also interact with hands-on activities, watch documentaries, and join workshops.

Some of the highlights of the museum are:

- The Bond Store: This is the original space of the warehouse, where you can see how goods were stored and transported in the 19th century. You can also steer ships and haul cargo on board in Jack's Boathouse.

- Te Whanganui-a-Tara: This is a new exhibition that showcases the toi and taonga of the Wellington region, inspired by its natural and cultural landscape. You can learn about the Māori legends, the social movements, and the contemporary art of the city.

- Wahine Theatre: This is an emotive account of the 1968 Wahine disaster, a tragic moment in our maritime history. You can watch a film by Gaylene Preston that shows the event through the eyes of the survivors.

- The Von Kohorn Room: This is the grand boardroom of the Wellington Harbour Board, where important decisions were made. You can listen to the historical accounts and see the elegant furniture and paintings.

- Ngā Heke: This is an exhibition that explores different perspectives and alternative histories, journeys and migrations. You can see the museum's most prized taonga, Te Whanganui a Tara, and contemporary work from Māori artists and poets.

- A Millennium Ago: This is an exhibition that uses theatrical illusionistic techniques to tell Māori creation legends. You can see the stories of Ranginui and Papatūānuku, Tāne and the forest, and Maui and the fish.

- The Attic: This is a steampunk-styled exhibit space that displays the weird, worrisome and wonderful stories of Wellington. You can see fantastical creations from lions to flying saucers, and a time machine that takes you back to different eras.

The Wellington Museum is a free-entry museum that is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. It is a great place to learn, discover, and have fun with your family.

https://www.museumswellington.org.nz/wellington-museum

The Old Bank & Willis Street

The Old Bank in Wellington is a historic landmark that offers a unique shopping and dining experience. Built in 1901 as the headquarters of the Bank of New Zealand, the Old Bank Arcade preserves the grandeur and elegance of the original building, while adding modern amenities and attractions. You can explore the history of the site, marvel at the animated musical clock, and browse the galleries, cafes, and specialty stores.

The Old Bank is also connected to the Willis Street Food Court, a new dining and shopping precinct that features a variety of cuisines and services. Whether you crave authentic Vietnamese, Chinese, Mexican, or Malaysian food, you can find it at the food court, along with sushi, cheese steaks, ice cream, and more. You can also enjoy interactive entertainment from Holey Moley, a mini golf course and bar, or pamper yourself at the Laser Clinics, Wildflower Florists, or City Fitness gym. The food court also has a childcare centre, Tiny Voices, for your convenience.

The Old Bank and the Willis Street Food Court are the perfect destinations for anyone looking for a taste of Wellington's history, culture, and diversity. With so much to see, do, and eat, you will never run out of reasons to visit.

Wellington Beaches

Wellington is blessed with many beautiful beaches that are perfect for kids. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day out, a fun adventure, or a learning experience, there is a beach for you and your family. Here are some of the best beaches in Wellington for kids:

- Oriental Bay: This is the most popular beach in Wellington, located close to the city centre. It has a golden sand beach, a playground, a fountain, and a jetty. You can swim, kayak, paddleboard, or bike along the waterfront. There are also cafes, restaurants, and ice cream shops nearby. Oriental Bay is a great place to enjoy the sun and the sea, and watch the boats and ferries go by.

- Scorching Bay: This is a scenic beach on the Miramar Peninsula, surrounded by hills and native bush. It has a sheltered bay, a grassy area, and a pirate-themed playground. You can swim, snorkel, fish, or picnic at this beach. There is also a historic cafe, the Scorch-O-Rama, that serves delicious food and drinks. Scorching Bay is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil and picturesque escape.

- Lyall Bay: This is a surf beach on the south coast, facing the Cook Strait. It has a long stretch of sand, a surf club, and a skate park. You can surf, bodyboard, kite surf, or watch the planes land at the nearby airport. There are also several eateries, including the famous Maranui Cafe, that serve fresh and tasty food. Lyall Bay is a lively and vibrant beach that attracts many surfers and beachgoers.

- Makara Beach: This is a rocky beach on the west coast, overlooking the Tasman Sea. It has a rugged and wild landscape, a fishing village, and a walking track. You can explore the rock pools, the caves, and the fossils at this beach. You can also hike to the Makara Peak, where you can see a wind farm and stunning views. Makara Beach is a remote and adventurous beach that offers a unique and educational experience.

Days Bay in Eastbourne

Taking a ferry out to Days Bay is one of our favorite Wellington activities to do. Days Bay beach in Eastbourne is a sandy beach with a wharf, a pavilion, cafes, and shops where you can swim, walk, dive, or fish. Reach it by using the East-by-West ferry from Wellington CBD, or you can take a bus or car. It is part of the East Harbour Regional Park, which has scenic views and trails. You can also:

- Hire a kayak or a paddleboard from Wildfinder Days Bay and explore the shoreline or find a private beach. They also have ice creams, slushies, and bikes.

- See ducks and pūkeko at the pond in Williams Park, which is being redeveloped. The park has a playground, a tennis court, and a cricket pitch.

- Eat wood-fired pizzas, meals, snacks, coffees, and ice creams at Days Bay Pavilion, which has indoor and outdoor seating and a view of the beach. You can also hire it for events.

- Walk the path behind Days Bay Pavilion to enter the trails of East Harbour Regional Park. There's also a great trail not far from the pavilion where kids can spot dozens of little ferry doors hidden in the trees!

- Check out Chocolate Dayz Cafe, a vibrant beachside cafe that serves a variety of dishes, from breakfast and brunch to salads and burgers. The cafe also offers coffee, beer, wine, and smoothies, while boasting a stunning view of the harbour and Eastbourne hills.

Matiu/Somes Island

Matiu/Somes Island is a unique destination in the heart of Wellington Harbour, New Zealand. It is a scientific and historic reserve that showcases the natural and cultural heritage of the region. The island is owned by the local iwi (Taranaki Whānui) and managed by the Department of Conservation.

Visitors can explore the island's diverse wildlife, including rare native birds, reptiles, and plants. The island is predator-free, meaning there are no rats, mice, stoats, or other animals that threaten the native species. Some of the wildlife that can be seen on the island are little blue penguins, tuatara, skinks, geckos, and kakariki.

The island also has a rich history that spans over a thousand years. It was named by the legendary explorer Kupe, and was used as a place of refuge by pre-colonial Māori. After European settlement, the island served as a human and animal quarantine station, an internment camp, a military defence position, and a lighthouse station. Visitors can learn more about the island's past by visiting the historic buildings, monuments, artefacts, and exhibitions that are scattered around the island.

Matiu Somes Island is accessible by ferry from Wellington or Days Bay. The island is open to the public every day, except for Christmas Day. There are several walking tracks that offer stunning views of the harbour and the city. There are also picnic areas, barbecue facilities, and a campsite for overnight stays. Visitors are advised to check the island biosecurity requirements before they go, to ensure they do not bring any pests, soil, or seeds that could harm the island's environment.

Matiu Somes Island is a place where nature and history meet. It is a perfect spot for a day trip or a longer stay, where visitors can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the island, while learning about its fascinating stories and secrets. Matiu Somes Island is a treasure of Wellington Harbour, and a must-see for anyone who loves wildlife, culture, and adventure.

Putangirua Pinnacles

Another of the North Island’s natural wonders is located to the east of the city of Wellington, the Putangirua Pinnacles. The unique formations, or hoodoos, are one of the best examples of badland erosion in the world.

Though these geological wonders have been a popular site to visit for quite a long time, they are another of New Zealand’s natural treasures that became famous as one of the Lord of the Rings film locations. The eerie atmosphere produced by centuries of erosion was the memorable backdrop of the Paths of the Dead walked by Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas.

You are able to add a stop to this amazing site on the Martinborough Winery and South Wairarapa Wild Coast Tour.

Interislander Ferry, Picton, New Zealand — Interislander Ferry, Picton to Wellington, New Zealand

Interislander & Bluebridge Ferries

When you’re ready to move on from the North Island to the South Island, taking a ferry can be a great way to go, especially when the weather and views are nice. The Interislander & Bluebridge Ferries are the services from Wellington across the Cook Strait and Marlborough Sounds to Picton on the South Island.

Both ferry services have advantages and disadvantages, depending on what you’re looking for and when you’re traveling. The journey takes about 4 hours, and both services often run discounts and promotions.

Grab tickets online here.

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Rivendell Film Set map, Upper Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand

Best Places to Visit in New Zealand

The North Island of New Zealand is a treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders. Experiencing them for yourself is sure to make it the first of many visits – you will want to return to explore more and experience their wonders again and again.

Heading north towards Auckland, we have a number of other recommendations for you to check out:

Alternatively, if you’re headed off to the South Island, here are your best options:

We know that if you can fit all of that in, you’ll have really loved your time in New Zealand and that it will be a trip that you’ll remember forever! If you don’t have enough time, make sure to check out the New Zealand Journey by National Geographic to see the biggest highlights in a condensed period of time and please feel free to share this article with friends that will be joining you or others who you know would love to go!

Learn more about this country, and its customs and culture, by reading your short Culture Smart! book today!

FAQ’s

How can I get to Rivendell from Wellington?

Rivendell is located in the Kaitoke Regional Park, which is about 45 minutes drive from Wellington¹. You can either rent a car or take a bus to get there. The bus service is operated by Metlink, and you can catch the Hutt Valley Line train from Wellington to Upper Hutt Station, and then take the bus 112 to Waterworks Road at Kaitoke Regional Park². The bus fare is NZ$5 per person one way³. From the park entrance, you can follow the signs to the Rivendell Archway, which marks the site of the elven city in the movies.

What is the best time of the year to visit Wellington and Rivendell?

Wellington and Rivendell can be visited all year round, but the weather can vary depending on the season. The summer months (December to February) are usually warm and sunny, with average temperatures of 20°C⁴. However, Wellington is also known for its strong winds, which can make it feel cooler. The winter months (June to August) are cold and wet, with average temperatures of 10°C⁴. You might also encounter snow or frost in the higher altitudes of the park. The spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) seasons are mild and pleasant, with less crowds and more colorful foliage.

What are some of the other Lord of the Rings filming locations in the North Island?

The North Island of New Zealand has many other places that were used as filming locations for the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Some of the most popular ones are:

- Hobbiton: This is the village of the hobbits, where you can see the iconic Bag End, the Green Dragon Inn, and the Party Tree. Hobbiton is located in Matamata, which is about 2 hours drive from Auckland⁵. You can book a guided tour of the movie set, which costs NZ$89 per adult and NZ$44 per child.

- Mount Doom: This is the fiery volcano where Frodo and Sam had to destroy the One Ring. Mount Doom is actually Mount Ngauruhoe, which is part of the Tongariro National Park. You can hike to the summit of the mountain, which takes about 6 hours round trip, or you can view it from a distance on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which is a 19.4 km one-way trek that takes about 8 hours.

- Weta Cave: This is the studio where the props, costumes, and special effects for the movies were created. Weta Cave is located in Miramar, which is a suburb of Wellington. You can visit the mini museum, which displays some of the original items from the movies, or you can take a guided tour of the workshop, which costs NZ$28 per person.

(1) Wellington and Rivendell: Weta-Cave and Other Highlights - North Island .... https://eatwanderexplore.com/blog/the-north-island-wellington-and-rivendell-the-best-of-new-zealand.

(2) Taupo, Tongariro, and the Mordor Hike - North Island of New Zealand. https://eatwanderexplore.com/blog/the-north-island-taupo-tongariro-and-the-mordor-hike-the-best-of-new-zealand.

(3) NZ North Island Itinerary & Travel Guide — Laura the Explorer. https://www.lauratheexplorer.co.nz/blog/new-zealand-nz-north-island-itinerary-two-weeks-travel-guide.

(4) New Zealand on Less than $44 per day - REmotiFIRE by EatWanderExplore. https://eatwanderexplore.com/blog/living-in-new-zealand-on-less-than-44-per-day-tips-and-tricks.

(5) The Ultimate New Zealand North Island Itinerary & Trip Highlights. https://www.jonesaroundtheworld.com/new-zealand-north-island-itinerary/.

Uglúk, the lead Uruk-hai from the Hobbit at The Weta Cave & Workshop, Wellington, New Zealand — Uglúk, the lead Uruk-hai from the Hobbit at The Weta Cave & Workshop, Wellington

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