OVERVIEW

Get a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the making of The Lord of the Rings trilogy on a tour of director Peter Jackson’s Weta Workshop special effects studio. A picturesque drive along sandy Oriental Bay toward Mount Victoria brings you to wondrous Wellington Harbor views and a stop to stroll the dense forest that served as the Outer Shire where Frodo and company began their epic journey. But the feature attraction of this journey is further ahead in Miramar, where a LOTR expert guide will lead you on an exclusive peek into the movie magic lurking inside the Weta Workshop and Weta Cave. Insights into the production process will be revealed as you tour these custom-built facilities full of props, models, costumes and Middle Earth weaponry. Interactive exhibits go into deeper detail as you learn about over 20 years of blockbuster effects work that’s been brought to life here. And a 25-minute film screening provides commentary from Peter Jackson himself along with the other Weta founders. Even if you don’t know an Orc from a Dwarf, this will be a fascinating glimpse behind the screen. At tour’s end, ride back to the pier or request an optional drop-off in the city.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the Wellington studio where local-hero Peter Jackson brought The Lord of the Rings and other film legends masterfully to life.
• En route, stop for epic views over Wellington and stroll the same woods the Hobbits did at the start of their long film journey.
• Tour the Weta Workshop complex with a crewmember as they share fascinating secrets and show off props, models, and weapons made for the LOTR films.
• See director Peter Jackson interviewed in an exclusive behind-the-scenes film that lays out 20+ years of moviemaking magic here in what’s become known as Wellywood.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear layered, weather-appropriate clothing.
• Flat, comfortable walking or hiking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, a bottle of water from the ship, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.