Visiting film locations in New Zealand’s North Island offers a unique opportunity to step into the awe-inspiring landscapes that have captured the imaginations of moviegoers worldwide. From the lush, rolling hills of Hobbiton to the dramatic peaks and volcanic terrain seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, these locations provide a tangible connection to the magic of cinema. Beyond their cinematic allure, these sites showcase the island’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and rich history, making them a must-see for both film buffs and nature lovers alike.
The Hobbit:
Hobbiton, Matamata
For devoted fans of J. R. R. Tolkien, seeking glimpses of Middle-earth™ in the real world, the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata is a dream come true. This meticulously crafted, to-scale recreation of The Shire features over forty hobbit houses, a tranquil lake, and the iconic Green Dragon Inn, all nestled amidst vibrant, emerald-green hills. The idyllic landscape is dotted with contented sheep, who lazily graze the pastures and occasionally meander onto the road, adding to the enchanting, pastoral atmosphere.
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy:
Hobbiton, Kaitoke Regional Park & Tongariro National Park
One of the key elements that made The Lord of the Rings trilogy so captivating was its flawless depiction of a mythical world. The film’s impact might not have been as profound had it been shot in a less ideal location. What made New Zealand the perfect backdrop was not only the breathtaking beauty and dramatic landscapes but also the diverse geography that brought Middle-earth to life. The rolling hills of The Shire were captured in Hobbiton (Matamata), the enchanting forests of Rivendell were filmed in Kaitoke Regional Park, and the desolate terrain of Mount Doom was portrayed by Mount Ngauruhoe in Tongariro National Park—each location perfectly embodying the essence of Tolkien’s legendary universe.
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Cathedral Cove, The Coromandel
When the Pevensie children step through the enchanted wardrobe into the mystical ruins of Cair Paravel, brought to life at Cathedral Cove in New Zealand, the cinematic magic is palpable. The scene is beautifully filmed, but it’s the location itself that truly captivates. The untouched golden sands and the allure of discovering a hidden cove, free from the trappings of modern life, add a sense of wonder. However, note that the Cathedral Cove Walk is closed due to landslips, and the iconic arch can only be viewed by sea during the summer of 2023-2024.
Pete’s Dragon
Redwoods Forest Rotorua, Central North Island
Although Disney’s Pete’s Dragon is set in the Pacific Northwest of America, the film, which tells the story of an orphaned boy and his dragon companion, was filmed entirely in New Zealand. One of the key locations was a Californian Redwood forest near Rotorua, chosen as the setting for the dragon’s home. Director David Lowery highlighted New Zealand’s unique light as a major reason for filming there. The light in New Zealand is stronger than in North America, giving the redwoods a special, almost ethereal glow that couldn’t have been achieved in the northern hemisphere.
The Last Samurai
Mount Taranaki, Taranaki
In The Last Samurai, the 2003 action film starring Tom Cruise as Captain Nathan Algren, tells a deeply Japanese story. However, New Zealand’s landscapes also play a significant role in bringing this tale to life. Though set in Japan, the film’s key scenes were actually shot in New Plymouth, a North Island town surrounded by lush sub-alpine forests and snow-capped peaks. Most notably, Mount Taranaki, a dormant stratovolcano that rises over 2,500 meters above sea level, stands in for Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji, adding a majestic and authentic backdrop to the film’s narrative.
The Piano
Karekare Beach, Auckland
Few films have captivated the world’s imagination like The Piano. Jane Campion’s 1993 masterpiece follows the story of Ada, a psychologically mute woman navigating life in 19th century Auckland. While much of the film is set on a 2,500-acre farm in Northern Taranaki, it’s Karekare Beach—a striking West Auckland beach known for its black sand and powerful swells—where Ada spends hours playing her piano, that truly steals the show. This hauntingly beautiful location became one of the most iconic elements of the Oscar-winning film.
Hiring a rental car from us to visit where movies were filmed in New Zealand offers the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems and stunning landscapes off the beaten path. With the convenience of a rental car, you can easily access remote sites and create a personalised itinerary that caters to your interests. This independence allows for a more immersive experience, letting you fully appreciate the diverse scenery and iconic locations that have made New Zealand a cinematic treasure. Book you rental car online now!