Go behind the scenes of Wētā Workshop in Wellington and discover the creativity behind one of the world's most iconic creative studios. For more than 30 years, Wētā Workshop has been creating props, costumes, creatures and practical effects for some of the most celebrated film and television productions ever made, from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit to Avatar and District 9. On this 90-minute guided experience, you'll gain a unique insight into the work of the artists who bring extraordinary worlds and characters to life. Led by expert guides, your tour takes you through a dedicated experience space where you'll explore props, costumes, creatures and weaponry displays. Along the way, you'll discover the techniques, tools and creative processes used by the Wētā Workshop team, from concept design and sculpting through to finishing. Keep an eye out for an artist at work on the tour stage.
Must See and Fun Tour of Wellington Where your Wellington adventure begins … Features include: • Downtown entertainment area of Wellington • Mt Victoria • Rugged Coastline • Weta Cave • Southern Hemisphere’s largest roundabout • War Memorial park • Cable Car • Lady Norwood Rose Gardens • Southern Hemisphere’s largest wooden building • Parliament Grounds • Old St Paul’s Cathedral
Wellington's Original LOTR Experience - includes Weta and Lunch
Enjoy a full day, all-inclusive adventure in Wellington, the home of middle-Earth. Visit some amazing locations from the Lord of the Rings movies, enjoy a delicious lunch and visit the famous Weta Workshop, where the films were created. We are Wellington's original Lord of the Rings tour and have been operating since 2002. Formerly Rover Rings Tours [before Covid], Welly Rings Tours is proud to show you Wellington as Middle-earth. Our fans-turned-guides will share with you fascinating stories of the making of these movies that you likely won't hear anywhere else - mainly because some of our guides were actually there!
Northern Explorer Train Journey from Wellington to Auckland
New Zealand's longest running passenger service, the Northern Explorer is a long distance scenic train service running between Wellington and Auckland. Experience the extremes of New Zealand's scenery, from the fertile farmlands of Waikato to the volcanic peaks of the Central Plateau and the sparkling Kapiti Coast.
Half Day Martinborough Winery Tour from Wellington
Experience a 5.5-hour guided tour to Martinborough, one of New Zealand's premier wine regions. Departing from Wellington, the tour follows the Hutt River through the Hutt Valley and over the Remutaka Ranges, with a sightseeing stop at the Summit (555m). In the Wairarapa valley, the winery town of Martinborough awaits, where you'll visit THREE of the region’s top wineries to enjoy their Cellar Door experiences and sample world-class wines. Your driver guide will provide narration and share local knowledge about this stunningly beautiful area throughout the journey. Please note that the wineries visited are subject to availability and may differ from those advertised.
For over 60 years, Interislander has been sharing the stunning scenery of Wellington Harbour and the breath-taking Marlborough Sounds with over 800,000 passengers every year. The voyage between the North and South Islands of Aotearoa New Zealand has been described as one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world and is a ‘must do’ experience for everyone exploring our stunning country. The three-hour journey gives plenty of time to soak in the scenery and enjoy the fresh, local food and beverages we pride ourselves in. The spacious and comfortable Interislander ferries run 7 days a week, all year round. Book your tickets now!
Seal Coast Safari - Exclusive access to Wellington's secret coast
A unique and exciting exploration to Wellington’s secret coast. With exclusive access through private farmland, we'll take you on a journey to discover Wellington's natural wonders in an area unknown even to many locals. Only 20km from the city, this area will feel like another world. Travelling in new 4WD Mercedes vehicles, you'll see a working farm with sheep, cows and goats, while enjoying stunning views of the Cook Strait, South Island and Kaikoura Ranges. Once down to sea-level, we’ll meet some much-loved locals – New Zealand Fur Seals. Enjoy morning/afternoon tea while observing these amazing animals as they sunbathe, play, and swim while learning about their history, ecology, and conservation from your friendly and knowledgeable guide. The Seal Coast Safari is a must-do for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and adventure. Join us and discover one of Wellington’s best-kept secrets! Route is along rough terrain requiring 4WD. Not suitable for people with neck or back injuries.
Join us on this 3hr journey into the story of Wellington, where we share the history, culture, conservation and place in the world of Te-Whanagnui-a-Tara - the coolest little capital. Visit Wellington’s main highlights and some hidden gems, including 4 photo stops a ride on the Cable Car. A perfect overview of our wonderful city for those who want an insight into local life and options on how to write your own Wellington story. PLEASE NOTE THAT WELLINGTON CABLE CAR WILL BE CLOSED FOR MAINTENANCE BETWEEN 21 JULY - 10 AUG 2025
Wellington's Original HD LOTR Experience - includes Weta Tour
Descend into the forested slopes of the Outer Shire, where our expert guides will entertain you with stories of how the Lord of the Rings movies were brought to life. Follow in the footsteps of Frodo and the Hobbits as they began their quest to destroy the One Ring. You will see the "shortcut to mushrooms", "get off the road" and hide from the Black Riders before fleeing to the Buckleberry Ferry. Recreate some of the most famous scenes from The Fellowship of the Ring and make your social media streams go crazy! Then delve into the heart of Wellywood and visit the Weta Workshop, who created all the props, armour, weapons, costumes, miniatures and prosthetics for the Middle-earth movies. Learn the secrets of movie magic on a behind-the-scenes tour by a Weta employee, who will explain the creative process behind bringing these films to life. You'll also have chance to take photos with various characters and weapons, as well as treating yourself to a souvenir or two, if desired.
Wellington City to Coast Highlights Tour (with Lunch)
This five-hour experience offers outstanding value, giving you more time to explore, a wider variety of attractions, and a delicious lunch all in one tour. With its combination of sightseeing, local insights, coastal scenery, and quality dining, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the very best of Wellington. Discover Wellington's iconic highlights, including Mount Victoria Lookout, the Wētā Cave, the historic Wellington Cable Car, the Wellington Botanic Garden and Lady Norwood Rose Garden, Parliament Grounds, and Old St Paul's Cathedral. Venture beyond the city centre with a scenic drive along Wellington's dramatic south coast and a visit to the Brooklyn Wind Turbine, where you'll have time to soak up the panoramic views. To complete the experience, enjoy a relaxing seaside lunch at a popular local café, including one main meal and one drink.