Top New Zealand Pop Culture - page 4

Explore Dunedin highlights on a half-day, small-group tour that goes from the city's historic landmarks to the beaches of the Otago Peninsula. See the University of Otago, the Dunedin Railway Station, and more, then continue to the beautiful Otago Peninsula, pausing en route for a walk on St. Clair Beach and esplanade. This tour includes transfers from Port Chalmers, with departure times to suit cruise ship arrivals.

Step into the world of movie special effects at Wētā Workshop Unleashed in Auckland and discover how artists bring film magic to life. In this hands-on beginner workshop, you'll learn introductory techniques from the Wētā Workshop Unleashed crew, in a small group with plenty of one-on-one guidance. Choose from two options. Intro to Scars and Scrapes - create your own realistic special effects makeup using professional techniques used in film production. Intro to Worldbuilding - create real miniature environments and landscapes using recycled materials. It’s cinematic worldbuilding scaled down and made hands-on. During this interactive 90-minute workshop, you'll learn how to or how to cut, shape and sculpt materials like cardboard and foil, then paint, texture and weather your creation to tell its story. No experience is necessary, and all materials are provided.

Discover the otherworldly beauty of New Zealand’s North Island, from Rotorua’s geothermal pools and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves to the Shire at the Hobbiton™ Movie Set in rural Waikato. Day trips from Auckland involve too much driving so spend the night in Rotorua for a more leisurely experience. Enjoy standard (3-star) or superior (4-star) accommodation, plus one breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

This tour offers you the chance to enjoy two of New Zealand's most iconic attractions in a single day. Begin with the mesmerizing Waitomo Caves, where you'll marvel at the stunning limestone formations and the enchanting glowworms that light up the darkness with their starry glow. Next, step into the magical world of Hobbiton, where you can explore charming hobbit homes, picturesque gardens, and seasonal landscaping. Starting December 2023, our new "Beyond the Door" experience allows you to enter the hobbits' homes, offering an immersive glimpse into their daily lives that was previously only available from the outside. After a day of exploration, unwind with a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn, the perfect way to relax and savor the day's adventures. *This tour has a long duration, so cruise ship passengers may not be able to participate. **The departure time is subject to change, Please make sure to check message from us about Pick up time and reply.

Heading inland from Tauranga, you will pass through the beachside town of Mount Maunganui on your way to a 12 acre sheep farm in Matamata. This farm is one that Peter Jackson fell in love with, and we now know as Middle Earth. The Lord of the Rings director picked a spot of lush, rolling, green hills to create the Hobbiton set. Enjoy a guided tour through the hobbit holes, Bagshot Row, the Mill, the famous bridge and finish up the tour with a beverage at the Green Dragon Inn. Even if you are not a Lord of the Rings fan, the landscape of the area is magical enough, and you will get to see a working New Zealand sheep and beef farm. Soak up the atmosphere of the Kaimai Ranges and don't forget to grab some movie set souvenirs on your way out. The remaining hours of the total hour duration of the tour is allotted to travel time.

Enjoy flexibility and personalized attention from your guide on this private tour. You’ll join a group while touring the Hobbiton Movie Set, located in Matamata, and learn about the filming process for “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” trilogies. Then head for Hunua Falls in Hunua Ranges Regional Park, a spectacular cascade formed as the Wairoa River courses through an ancient volcano. Round-trip transport from Auckland is included.

Explore the iconic Hobbiton film set and the natural wonder of Waitomo Glowworm Cave in one day on this full-day tour from Auckland. Venture underground at Waitomo for an atmospheric cruise beneath thousands of glittering glowworms. After lunch (own expense), re-live your favorite moments from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films on a guided tour of Hobbiton.

Discover two of the North Island’s most popular attractions in one day with this full-day tour from Auckland. Travel in the comfort of a private luxury vehicle with guided commentary from your driver, then join guided group tours to experience the Waitomo Caves and the Hobbiton Movie Set. Cruise along an underground river beneath a canopy of glittering glowworms and learn about the making of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.

Whether you’re on your honeymoon in New Zealand or just want to spend more quality time with your partner, this private tour from Auckland is a romantic way of seeing two North Island highlights. Departing from a location of your choice in Auckland, your private chauffeur will drive you south, to the Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Caves. Customize the itinerary to suit your needs and interests.

Luxury transportation with complimentary onboard amenities with professional and experienced guides

Tucked between the peaks and lakes of Central Otago, Arrowtown and Wānaka offer outdoor adventure and history. Visit both destinations in one day on this private tour from Queenstown and avoid the stress of self-driving on mountain roads. Tour the Gibbston Valley with your guide and stroll through the 19th-century gold-mining settlement of Arrowtown. Admire spectacular views from the Crown Range Road and enjoy free time in Wānaka.

Make the most of three days on New Zealand’s North Island on a convenient group tour. There’s no need to self-drive or plan all the logistics yourself. Starting in Auckland, you’ll cover several of the island’s outstanding natural and cultural highlights, including Waitomo Caves, the Hobbiton™ Movie Set, a Maori cultural experience, and geothermal attractions around Rotorua. Choose the accommodation type to suit your budget and preferences.

Travel south after morning pickup from your Auckland hotel. En route to Hobbiton, enjoy a quick stretch break before arrival at the Hobbiton Movie Set. Fans will love the guided tour of the Shire, a prime filming location for The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings movie series. Explore inside a Hobbit home on BagShot Row. Stop for photos as you’re entertained with tales about the making of the films. Then head to the Green Dragon Inn for a complimentary drink before enjoying a delicious buffet lunch at the Party Marquee After your tour of Hobbiton, you will be transferred to Rotorua by 2.15pm, allowing time to explore the city in the afternoon.

*Lord of the Rings* fans will feel like they're on Middle Earth during this air tour. Fly above beautiful Queenstown, and see the spots filmed for the fictional places of Isengard, Amon Hen, Lothlorien; then land on a glacier alongside the Misty Mountains and get a sense of what it might be like to cross The Redhorn Pass.

Experience two of New Zealand’s top destinations on an unforgettable journey from Auckland. Travel through the scenic Waikato countryside to the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you’ll join a guided tour through impressive limestone formations and underground chambers. Learn about the caves and unique glowworms before boarding a peaceful boat ride along the underground river beneath thousands of shimmering lights. Continue to Rotorua and visit Te Puia, home to spectacular geothermal wonders, Māori culture, and native wildlife. Witness the powerful Pōhutu Geyser, bubbling mud pools, and remarkable geothermal landscapes before visiting the kiwi conservation centre. Discover the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, where skilled students preserve traditional carving and weaving techniques, and learn about Māori heritage and traditions. Relax on the return journey to Auckland after a memorable day of glowworms, geothermal wonders, native wildlife, and cultural discovery.

Travel in comfort on a private journey to the Hobbiton Movie Set, with pick-up from your Auckland hotel, airport, or cruise port in a luxury Mercedes vehicle. Enjoy a scenic two-hour drive through the Waikato countryside, including a photo stop and additional comfort stops if required. Upon arrival, enjoy 30–45 minutes to browse the official Hobbiton Gift Shop or relax at The Shire’s Rest Café before beginning your Middle-earth adventure. Meet your private Hobbiton guide and enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour through the Hobbit Holes, The Mill, Double Arched Bridge, and other iconic locations, complete with a complimentary drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Enjoy a buffet lunch in the Party Marquee with shared-table seating, subject to availability, with an alternative lunch provided if required. Golf cart assistance may be available for guests with limited mobility. End your day with lasting memories of the Shire before your relaxing return journey to Auckland.

Embark on a full-day sightseeing luxury tour on our premium luxury vehicle from Auckland to see New Zealand's most famous attraction. Grab a great value Hobbiton Movie Set tour including a Buffet Lunch at the Party Marquee, the award-winning attraction made famous by the popular Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies where you'll see the intricately created 'Hobbit!

Uncover Auckland’s coastal beauty, iconic landmarks, and vibrant neighbourhoods on a memorable sightseeing journey. Begin at Bastion Point, where panoramic views stretch across the Waitematā Harbour and city skyline, before travelling along the waterfront to the lively seaside suburb of Mission Bay. Continue through Saint Heliers to Achilles Point for spectacular views over the Hauraki Gulf and surrounding islands. Journey through the historic streets of Parnell and the bustling Newmarket area, discovering some of Auckland’s most popular neighbourhoods before enjoying a relaxing lunch. Cross the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge to the North Shore and visit the charming seaside village of Devonport. Travel to the summit of Mount Victoria for breathtaking panoramic views of Auckland City, the harbour, and Rangitoto Island. Complete your tour with memorable scenery and a deeper appreciation of Auckland’s unique landscapes and coastal character.

Explore the enchanting landscapes of Middle-earth on a private half-day tour from Queenstown. This immersive journey takes you through iconic filming locations of The Lord of the Rings, revealing the breathtaking alpine valleys and remote backcountry that brought the cinematic magic to life. With a private guide, delve into behind-the-scenes stories, capture memorable photos at scenic spots, and enjoy flexible time for short walks amidst stunning backdrops. Perfect for film enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, this tour offers a unique blend of film history and natural beauty. This is an independent tour of real New Zealand filming locations and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or licensed by the film studios or rights holders. - 5-hour private tour focused on the trilogy - Visit real landscapes used for Isengard scenes and other filming locations - Visit Glenorchy and Paradise Valley, home to Lord of the Rings filming locations - Flexible time for short walks and exploration

Visit the world-renowned Hamilton Gardens and the Hobbiton Movie Set, all in one day. This private tour from Auckland ensures you’ll have the exclusive attention of your guide, with admission included to both North Island attractions. With a stop at the Waikato River and Lake Karapiro, it’s a great way to spend time outside the bustling harbor city.

Explore more of the Bay of Islands region than you alone with this full-day private tour—all thanks to a time-efficient, yet comprehensive, itinerary. After a scenic drive through the North Island countryside, hop aboard a catamaran for a cruise to some of the bay’s most popular landmarks, including the Hole in the Rock formation, Urupukapuka Island, Cape Brett Peninsula, and much more.

Explore iconic filming locations from the Lord of the Rings in Glenorchy and Paradise on this half-day tour. Led by knowledgeable guides, visit sites like Ithilien, Isengard, and Beorn’s House, enhancing your journey with authentic props and behind-the-scenes insights. Enjoy a hot or cold beverage while capturing memorable photos with licensed replicas. This intimate tour, lasting 4.5 hours, is perfect for fans of all ages, though some walking on dirt tracks is involved. Discover the magic of Middle Earth while supporting local conservation efforts with a portion of your fee going to the Love Queenstown Community Fund. - 4.5-hour tour showcasing stunning LOTR locations - Knowledgeable guides with expert insights on the films - Includes hot or cold beverages and photo opportunities - Suitable for families, but wear appropriate footwear for walking

Otepoti/Dunedin was settled by Free Church Presbyterians in 1848. They worked hard and went to church on Sunday. The gold rush in 1861 brought with it a completely different population to the one first envisioned - a much more lively and less law abiding one. Your guide, Gregor Campbell has spent years curating true stories of crime and murder from Dunedin's grim past. He tells the tales expertly with poise and dignity as he drives around the seemingly harmless areas of Dunedin that, over a hundred years ago were more sordid and despairing. Relax back in a brand new Toyota Hiace minibus while Gregor brings our city back to life.... if only temporarily.

HAIR RAISER TOURS— Est. 1999, presents Jack the Clicker's Photographic Crime Walk—created by New Zealand's original pioneer in dark tourism—Andrew Smith. Jack the Clicker trained under a police photographer and fingerprint expert, gaining first-hand insight into the techniques and practices of forensic photography. This unique background brings a different perspective to Dunedin's darker history, as you explore the city through the lens of your camera or smartphone. Hear exclusive accounts from those who were there and witnessed it firsthand—from gold rush events and Victorian crime scenes to the forgotten stories of Dunedin's underbelly history. A few Secrets Remain...While a few locations have been listed in our itinerary, they"re certainly not the whole story. We've kept a few secrets under our hat—some places and surprises that you'll only discover when you join Hair Raiser Tours. By Day—Jack the Clicker's Photographic Crime Walk By Night—Curly Jack's Underbelly Crime Walk