Rings | Training 4 | Full Day

 

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[1] Tour overview

PRE-TOUR: OFFICE/DEPOT

• Arrive on time (usually 7:45am)
• Make sure you:
  • Check your Runsheet on the App (REZDY)
  • Have the correct photobook, menus and any props you want to use
  • Confirm your pick-ups with anyone else helping you
  • Confirm tour Wētā tour start/finish time
  • Check on traffic conditions (plan to leave early if there has been a crash/breakdown on the route)
  • Check on weather conditions (if likely to be wet take umbrellas).
• Aim to leave the office at 8:00am/1:00pm depending on your first pick up location. It can take up to 30 minutes to the City/Port on busy days in peak hour traffic

 ON TOUR

• Rendezvous with anyone assisting with your pick-up run at the prearranged destination [usually Wellington iSite, YHA or Mt Victoria Lookout]. If you have to switch passengers around at this point, ensure you have everyone on board before commencing your tour.
• For all tours welcome the Group, outline the itinerary, and go through the H & S Checklist:
  
  

  Health & Safety Checklist 1)     Ensure clients have appropriate footwear and weather protection. 2)     Explain the level of fitness required and offer options to sit out parts of the tour. 3)     Check to what extent clients can understand your instructions in English 4)     Taking care when entering and exiting the buses/vans 5)     Taking care not to cross the road on exiting vehicles (e.g., particularly at Alexandra Road and the Mt Victoria Lookout) 6)     Warn clients about possible hazards that will be encountered during tour. Uneven ground in many sites (loose gravel, soft dirt and mud and tree roots) 7)     Risks of going down to location sites, especially steep track at Mt Victoria (e.g., Escape off the Road, Frodo’s Tree). Danger of falling branches in high winds in particular 8)     Stay on the marked tracks 9)     Mountain bike tracks risks in Mt Victoria 10)   Explain that under New Zealand law you must wear a seatbelt, but it is the responsibility of the passenger to do so. Children under 16 are the caregiver’s responsibility. If not accompanied, it is the driver’s responsibility. 11)   Remind clients to take their bags with them, or at least tuck them under seats when not in vehicles.

(1) FIT tours/cruise ship tours 

FIT/cruise ship tours can run in either order (i.e., Wellington locations/Wētā first, or out to the Hutt Valley/Kaitoke locations). The order of the tour will depend on the Wētā tour booking.

HUTT VALLEY (FIRST):

• Advise that the drive to the Hutt River/Kairangi River for the first location (River Anduin) will take between 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Before leaving for the Valley circulate the lunch menu and ask people to advise you of their selections at the next stop
• When you arrive at Poet’s Corner park the bus near the path to the riverbed. Advise the Group to watch their footing on the river stones (the location usually takes around 10 minutes, allow time for photographs). Take the Group’s lunch orders and submit these via the App to Aston Norwood directly
• Drive on to Harcourt Park, which is a 10-minute drive (maximum). Park in the main carpark close to the northern end and the path through the bush that opens out onto the meadows used for filming. The location usually takes about 15-2o minutes (including time for photographs). Be courteous to other park users (sometimes there are groups playing Frisbee/Disc Golf).
• Drive on to Kaitoke Regional Park for the Rivendell locations and the circular forest walk and up to the 1100-year-old Northern Rātā. This set of locations and the forest walk takes about an hour in total. Point out the toilet facilities.
• Drive on to Aston Norwood for lunch. A table will be reserved for you and the (pre) ordered lunches should come out fairly promptly. Lunch should take around 45 minutes. Suggest to the Group that they may want to go to the toilet before the next part of the journey, as it a one-hour trip back int Wellington City.
• On approaching the Haywards Interchange introduce the Helm’s Deep/Minas Tirith (drive by) location. Head up the off ramp (if you have time) and do one full circuit of the interchange to point out the film location in the terraced hillside where the Quarry used to be.
• Carry on into Wellington City. Point out the Sky Stadium, which is an opportunity to talk about the stadium being used to record audio for the LoTR (in 2002) at an international cricket match between New Zealand and England
• Depending on time and the rest of the scheduled itinerary you will either:
  • Head straight to Wētā Cave in Miramar
  • Head up to Mt Victoria to the Lookout and film locations (via the Quays/Bays or the inner city (if exiting the motorway after The Terrace Tunnel)

STRAIGHT TO Wētā cave:

• If travelling straight to Wētā Cave (e.g., for 9:00am/2:00pm), it is usually quickest to go via the Bays (15-20 minutes). Watch your timing, as it can be tight with rush hour morning traffic.
• If you get to Miramar early (before 8:45am), drive past Stone Street Studios. You should arrive 10 minutes beforehand at Wētā Cave though, which will allow you time to get and distribute the tickets for the group. The Group can get a photo with the trolls/have an initial look around the Wētā Cave shop/mini museum.
• Advise the Group that they will have time to look around the shop and get their photos printed after the tour. Also advise the Group that they can leave their belongings in the bus, as it will be locked. Note that the bus will be in position at the conclusion of the tour (by the Red door).

STRAIGHT TO Wētā cave:

• FIT Wētā Cave-based tours take 90 minutes. Allow the Group some time to get their photos printed and to purchase merchandise. Round the Group up after 15 minutes. Make sure you do a head count to ensure you have everybody before leaving Wētā Cave.
• If you haven’t yet driven past Stone Street studios do so before leaving Miramar for Mt Victoria.
• It usually takes 10-15 minutes to reach Mt Victoria.
• Advise the Group how long you will be down The Hill and provide a H & S reminder about the hazards walking to/from the location, especially if you have people with clear mobility issues.
• The Mt Victoria locations usually take between 30 - 45 minutes (Drop the Dunharrow location if short on time). Conversely, if you have plenty of time (and a small/fit group) you can also visit Frodo’s Tree.
• On returning to the bus advise the Group that you are driving up to the Mt Victoria Lookout, which is a short five-minute journey.
• At Mt Victoria assess the weather conditions and advise that you will be stopping for five minutes or so for the view and photos. If the weather and visibility is very poor, consider just noting the location and continuing to drive to the city.
• After leaving the Lookout and head down to the city, as you approach the intersection of Majoribanks Street and Kent Terrace start talking about the Embassy Cinema and the LoTR World Premiere.
• Continue on through the intersection to Courtney Place, point out the Wētā Workshop film sculpture Tripod and continue to talk about the Premiere. Begin drop-offs (e.g., YHA, iSite, Bunny St, The Terrace).
• Return the bus to the Office. Ensure that the bus is at least half full of fuel. Stop at Z in Johnsonville to fill if necessary.

MT VICTORIA FIRST:

• After the final pick-up [usually 8:30am; 1:30pm] (e.g., iSite/YHA) loop around to Courtney Place to talk about the Embassy Cinema and the LoTR World Premiere. Point out Wētā Workshop sculpture on cnr. of Courtney Place/Cambridge Terrace.
• Head across the intersection and up Majoribanks Street, via Palliser Road to Mt Victoria Lookout
• At Mt Victoria assess the weather conditions and advise that you will be stopping for five minutes or so for the view and photos. If the weather and visibility is very poor, consider just noting the location and continuing on down to the locations.
• On returning to the bus advise the Group that you are driving to the Mt Victoria Lookout, which is a short five-minute journey.
• Advise the Group how long you will be down The Hill and provide a H & S reminder about the hazards walking to/from the location, especially if you have people with clear mobility issues.
• The Mt Victoria locations usually take between 30 - 45 minutes (Drop the Dunharrow location if short on time). Conversely, if you have plenty of time (and a small/fit group) you can also visit Frodo’s Tree.
• Head to Miramar to Wētā Cave for the tour (usually at 10:30am; 3:30pm). It usually takes about 10-15 minutes to reach Mt Victoria.
• If you have time, drive past Stone Street Studios before arriving at Wētā Cave. You should arrive 10 minutes beforehand, which will allow you time to get and distribute the tickets for the group. The Group can get a photo with the trolls/have an initial look around the Wētā Cave shop/mini museum. Advise the group that they will have time to look around the shop and get their photos printed after the tour.
• FIT Wētā tours take 90 minutes. Allow the group some time to get their photos printed and to purchase merchandise. Round the Group up after 15 minutes. Make sure you do a head count to ensure you have everybody before leaving Wētā Cave.
• If you haven’t yet driven past Stone Street Studios do so before leaving Miramar to return to the city via the Bays.
• Return the bus to the Office. Ensure that the bus is at least half full of fuel. Stop at Z in Johnsonville to fill if necessary.

 

[2] Tour stories (Summaries - model tour/'core stories')

Welcome and Introduction:
Start the tour by warmly greeting guests, introducing yourself, and sharing a personal connection to Wellington or the "Lord of the Rings" films to set a friendly tone. Outline the day's key stops, including the Hutt River (River Anduin), Isengard, and Rivendell, and share any special features. Remind guests about health and safety tips, like wearing seatbelts and staying together. Let them know it will take 20-30 minutes to reach the Hutt River, and distribute the lunch menu for them to make selections ahead of time.

Wellington: The Capital of Middle-earth:
Introduce Wellington as New Zealand’s capital, known as the "Capital of Middle-earth" for its iconic film locations. Explain that it’s named after the Duke of Wellington, though he never visited, and highlight its Māori names, Te Whanganui-a-Tara and Te Upoko-o-te-Ika-a-Māui, rooted in Māori history and mythology. Share a brief history of Wellington becoming the capital due to its strategic central location. Mention fun facts like the population of 220,000 in the city (440,000), its status as the world’s windiest city, and its high quality of life.

Peter Jackson: A Local Hero:
Talk about Peter Jackson, born in Pukerua Bay in 1961, and his early love of film, sparked by watching "King Kong" at age nine. Share how his passion for filmmaking grew with support from his parents, who gifted him a Super-8 camera. His early work, like "Bad Taste," gained cult status, but his international breakthrough came with "Heavenly Creatures" in 1994. Jackson's career soared with the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, which earned 17 Academy Awards and grossed over $3 billion.

Location 1: River Anduin (Poet’s Corner – Upper Hutt):
Explain that the River Anduin (Hutt River/Kairangi River) scenes were created by combining footage from five rivers across New Zealand, including this location for close-up shots due to its safety. The filmmakers used forced perspective to create different-sized boats for the characters, and mannequins stood in for Hobbits in aerial shots. Highlight the importance of practical effects in creating Tolkien's world and the logistics of location scouting.

Location 2: Isengard (Harcourt’s Park):
At Harcourt’s Park, lead the group to a grassy area overlooking the filming meadow. Share how the iconic shot of Gandalf riding toward Isengard was filmed with Orthanc digitally added later. Explain how symbolism played a role, with Gandalf entering from the right to represent good. Discuss the use of forced perspective to create the stone wall and gate and engage the group with stories about the production process, from perfecting shots to handling lighting and sound.

Rivendell (Kaitoke Regional Park)

Arrival and Significance: As we arrive, you’ll see the official LOTR sign marking this as Rivendell. It's a recognised filming location, an iconic place for fans, and a key part of the Lord of the Rings story.

Cultural Impact: Rivendell is a symbol of peace and sanctuary in the films, and the stunning scenery here helped bring Tolkien’s world to life.

Driving into the Valley:

• Forest Overview: Kaitoke Regional Park is a beautiful 7,000-acre temperate rainforest, one of the few remaining in the world. The forest was heavily logged in the past, but you’ll see some ancient trees, including Rimu, Kahikatea and Northern Rātā, that are over 1,000 years old.
• Ecological History: New Zealand’s isolation allowed unique bird species to evolve, many becoming flightless due to a lack of natural predators. However, the first human settlers - Polynesians - brought new predators that led to the extinction of species like the moa. European settlers brought many more, further disseminating the natural flora and fauna of Aotearoa with lasting impacts.

Arrival

• Facilities: After parking, point out the toilets and head across the bridge to see filming locations. Note that we will later go across the swing bridge to experience a remnant of ancient native forest.

Bridge location:

• On the right, you’ll see where Eomer searched for Theodred’s body in "The Two Towers," and provide some behind-the-scenes tales about how extras braved the cold for scenes that were ultimately cut.

Rivendell Remnants and Elven Posts:

• Elven Post: Outside Hobbiton, Rivendell is one of the few places with lasting reminders of the film. Check out the Elven post with translations from High Elvish.
• Language and world Creation: Tolkien, a language professor, based Elvish languages on Welsh and Finnish, building rich cultures around them and an unparalled mythical world, often referred to as a 'true mythology'.

Before filming began, Peter Jackson told the cast and crew to think of the trilogy as a recreation of mythology, not fantasy. He envisioned Middle-earth as a real, forgotten world, physically rebuilt to immerse the audience.

Recreating Rivendell:

[Show photos of Rivendell and Alan Lee’s artwork] Peter Jackson had an advantage with Tolkien’s rich world and 45 years of artistic interpretations. He chose British artist Alan Lee’s vision, who illustrated the 1991 edition approved by Tolkien’s family. Jackson, a fan since age 18, brought both Alan Lee and John Howe to Wellington for six years to lead the film’s conceptual art.

Inspiration for Rivendell:

Tolkien was inspired by Switzerland’s Lauterbrunnen Valley, a deep valley with waterfalls and the majestic Jungfrau mountain. This hidden haven in permanent autumn symbolized the Elves’ fading golden age.

Elrond’s House Set:

A full-size version of Elrond’s house was built here for the outdoor scenes, though the interior scenes, like the Council of Elrond, were filmed at Stone Street Studios. The nearby clearing was used for Frodo’s reunion with Bilbo, where Jackson admired how morning light shone through Bilbo’s hair.

Kissing Bridge Scene:

The Kissing Bridge, an important scene symbolizing Arwen and Aragorn’s love, was built here but didn’t meet Jackson’s expectations, so Wētā Workshop rebuilt it at Stone Street Studios. This set also included the Council of Elrond.

Details for Tolkien Fans:

Jackson included subtle details, like white swans, which are the Elves’ emblem, to win over skeptical Tolkien fans.

Frodo’s Bedroom:

Frodo’s awakening after being stabbed was filmed here. The bed was positioned against the large tree behind me. Another iconic scene filmed here was Bilbo’s terrifying transformation when he reaches for the Ring. Peter Jackson gifted Sir Ian Holm a mask of his contorted face from this scene.

Stunning Balcony Scene:

One of the most beautiful shots is Frodo standing on the balcony with Rivendell’s grandeur in the background, which combined live action, miniatures, and CGI to stunning effect.

• Legolas’ Tree: As the release date for the first movie approached, Peter Jackson realized they were lacking promotional photos. He contacted Orlando Bloom, who was filming Pirates of the Caribbean in Australia, asking if he could come to Wellington for a weekend. Orlando agreed, and when asked where he wanted to take the photos, he naturally chose Kaitoke Regional Park, where scenes for Rivendell were filmed.

• The Gate of Rivendell: The gate here is half the size of the original built for The Lord of the Rings. The full-size version had a thirty-foot tower. This one was built after The Hobbit trilogy by Wētā Workshop. It looks ancient but is only a decade old, showcasing Wētā’s skill. Made on-site, it has a wooden frame and cheap materials like pool noodles covered in a fast-drying concrete-like material.

• Scenes filmed at the gate: Important scenes were filmed here, including the arrival of the Fellowship in small groups. Peter Jackson didn't show the cast the location beforehand, so their reactions on seeing Rivendell for the first time were genuine. Notably, Sean Bean was so surprised by Peter getting the shot on the first take that he tried to do it again, expecting multiple takes.

• Symbolism of the gate: The gate represents the unity of the Fellowship during the Council of Elrond, where Elrond declares them "The Fellowship of the Ring." This leads to Pippin’s famous line, “Great! Where are we going?” The entire Fellowship ensemble, plus Elrond and Arwen, were filmed here, an hour from downtown Wellington.

• The Fellowship group photo: A rare image of the entire Fellowship together. The top half shows the actors standing, but the bottom half has been altered to fit the hobbits, who were kneeling. The hobbit actors often joked about wearing the hobbit feet, even when they weren’t filmed, but it helped them stay in character.

• Final scene directions: In the last scene, Gandalf tells Frodo to go left, symbolizing the direction toward Mordor, where evil resides.

Swing Bridge and Forest Walk:

• Podocarp Forest: Take a short walk through an ancient podocarp forest, crossing the swing bridge. From the middle, you can see the meeting point of the Hutt and Pakuratahi Rivers.

New Zealand's Biodiversity:

• Unique Species: New Zealand has around 80,000 native species, many of which are unique to the country. The forest’s layers offer a fascinating glimpse into this biodiversity, from ferns on the ground to epiphytes growing on tall trees.
• Ferns: The Silver Fern, a national symbol, was used by Māori for navigation and other practical purposes.

• Tolkien’s Environmentalism: While he disliked allegory, Tolkien’s love for nature and his opposition to industrialization are clear in the way he valued trees and the natural world.

Lunch at Aston Norwood Gardens:

• After exploring Rivendell, we’ll head to Aston Norwood Gardens for lunch, where your pre-ordered meals will be served. It’s a great chance to reflect on the morning’s adventure before we head back to Wellington.

Helm’s Deep and Minas Tirith: Set Construction and Filming

Quarry Rental and Set Construction:

• The quarry used to build Helm's Deep and Minas Tirith was rented for two years. During this time, the teams constructed, filmed, and then dismantled the massive sets. Helm's Deep was built directly into the cliffs, utilizing the natural rock to integrate the set. For long-distance shots, scale models were used to create a more expansive feel.
• Minas Tirith, in contrast, had only a few streets constructed. Through clever camera angles and visual effects, these sections appeared as though they were part of a much larger city.

Why this Quarry?

• The quarry was chosen for its proximity to Wellington, allowing for easy access by the crew and the ideal backdrop of natural cliffs, which added realism to the scenes.

Filming Experiences:

• Early scenes featured Elves marching up the causeway of Helm’s Deep. It was a painstaking process, requiring many takes due to the precision needed for the epic look.
• Filming took around four months, with long days and extensive night shoots. Special effects like rain simulation came from rain towers, a challenging experience especially for actors in thinner costumes who had to endure the cold.

Costume Challenges:

• The Uruk-hai warriors wore elaborate costumes with many layers of armour and makeup, making movement difficult. However, it was the Elven soldiers who had the most uncomfortable outfits. The rigid armour made simple actions a challenge.
• Uruk-hai pikes were an impressive 10-12 feet long, while Elven longbows reached about 6 feet. A notable addition to the battle scene was the spontaneous 'Uruk-hai haka'—a fierce Maori chant used to energise the actors.

CGI and Practical Effects:

• Although the battles looked intense, most of the arrows in those scenes were computer-generated. Actors still had to pull the bowstrings as if firing real arrows, maintaining the illusion of weight and force.

 Filming Minas Tirith:

• Minas Tirith had a shorter filming schedule, mostly focusing on large daytime battle scenes, including the dramatic charge through the gates. Some composite shots of armies were filmed here, then digitally expanded for the final version.

Logistics and Secrecy:

• Secrecy was a major focus, with base camp located across a motorway. To prevent leaks, actors had their costumes covered with blankets, and bus windows were blacked out.
• Stone Street Studios, nearby, housed internal filming locations for Helm's Deep, adding an extra layer of logistical complexity to the filming process.

The Lord of the Rings Stadium: A Sporting and Cinematic Landmark

On returning to the city we pass Sky Stadium, note its iconic role in both sporting and cinematic history. With a seating capacity of 35,000, it's home to major sporting events like All Blacks rugby matches and has hosted concerts by international stars like Elton John and David Bowie.

However, one of its most unique moments happened in March 2002. Peter Jackson, the visionary director behind The Lord of the Rings, orchestrated an extraordinary sound-recording session during a cricket match between New Zealand and England. Jackson asked the 22,000 fans to simulate the roar of an Orc army, which was later incorporated into the epic battle scenes in The Two Towers. This innovative use of a live audience’s roar added a local touch to the cinematic experience and further cemented Wellington’s role in the creation of these iconic films.

Wellington’s Seismic Story

Wellington is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to earthquakes. The city has experienced several significant seismic events, the largest in nearby Wairarapa being the 1855 earthquake with a magnitude of 8.2, still the largest recorded in New Zealand’s history. More recently, the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake (magnitude 7.8) caused extensive damage, including to parts of Wellington’s waterfront (Kaikoura is 200 kms from Wellington).

Wellington has become a leader in earthquake resilience, pioneering the use of base isolators—large shock absorbers that allow buildings to move independently during an earthquake. This technology, invented in 1971, has been used in iconic buildings such as Parliament and Te Papa, ensuring safety in future seismic events. The technology is now found around the world.

Exploring Peter Jackson’s Influence

Born in Pukerua Bay in 1961, Peter Jackson is Wellington’s most renowned resident. He developed his passion for film at a young age after watching the 1933 version of King Kong. Jackson’s career reflects the innovative spirit of a ‘Kiwi rebel,’ his bold filmmaking approach creating entirely immersive worlds. His Lord of the Rings trilogy, which earned 17 Academy Awards, was shot right here in Wellington and has become the most successful film trilogy in history, grossing over $3 billion. Jackson’s success has firmly placed Wellington on the global filmmaking map, and today, Wellington’s film companies—including Wingnut films, Park Road Post Production, Wētā Workshop, Wētā FX, and Stone Street Studios—are major players in the global film industry.

Heading Toward Miramar: Wellywood

As we head towards Miramar, you’ll notice the kinetic wind sculptures lining Cobham Drive—one of Wellington’s most famous features, reflecting the city’s embrace of its windy identity. Soon after, we enter Miramar, affectionately known as "Wellywood," home to Wellington’s film industry. The birth of the film industry here transformed this working-class manufacturing suburb into a world-class film production hub. Note the Wellington sign, a playful nod to both the city’s movie legacy and its famously strong winds.

Miramar: The Heart of Wellington’s Film Industry

• As we drive through the Miramar cutting, welcome to "Wellywood," home to the creative powerhouse that has transformed a once-sleepy residential suburb into the beating heart of New Zealand’s film industry. Miramar, meaning "by the sea" in Spanish, is often confused with Miramax Studios (although it has a key role in the LoTR story). Miramax was co-founded by Harvey Weinstein, whose influence helped get The Lord of the Rings (LoTR) rolling. Although Weinstein is now a disgraced figure, his early support was critical in securing LoTR's initial momentum.
• Miramar is now one of the world's leading film hubs, yet it grew organically, with Peter Jackson converting old factories and unused industrial buildings into cutting-edge film production studios. This approach reflects the Kiwi spirit of resourcefulness and creativity, building a world-class film industry from the ground up.
• Beyond its role in film, Miramar Peninsula is also famous for being declared New Zealand’s first pest-free suburb in 2023. This community-led initiative successfully eradicated invasive species such as rats, stoats, and possums, leading to a resurgence in native birdlife and demonstrating Wellington's environmental stewardship.
• Historically, Miramar was a working-class area, and the first state house in New Zealand was built here in 1937 as part of the country’s then-groundbreaking welfare state, aimed at supporting its citizens from “cradle to grave.” These progressive roots are still a point of pride in New Zealand, although the state’s role has evolved over time.

Location 1: Stone Street Studios – A Filmmaking Powerhouse

• As we pass Stone Street Studios, look out for the sprawling sound stages that were once an old gasworks and paint factory. The studios are now home to some of the world’s biggest blockbusters. Stage K was purpose-built for Peter Jackson’s King Kong and features sets like Skull Island. The stages themselves are named after iconic Jackson films: K for King Kong and F & G for Frodo and Gandalf, underscoring the studio’s deep connections to his filmography.
• Not only does Stone Street boast indoor stages, but also a vast outdoor blue screen, which was initially constructed for The Lord of the Rings on a very low budget using old shipping containers and paint. It was the largest outdoor blue screen in the Southern Hemisphere in 1999. This screen was used to film sequences such as the Dead Marshes, and later scenes like Lake-town in The Hobbit. This innovative use of space and technology has played a critical role in New Zealand's reputation as a leading destination for international film productions.

Location 2: The Roxy Cinema – A Cinematic Revival

• Coming up on your left is the Roxy Cinema, a symbol of Miramar’s rich cinematic history. Originally opened in 1928 for silent films, it transitioned to sound films (or "talkies") in 1932. However, by 1964, it had closed and spent years as a shopping center before falling into disrepair.
• The Roxy's rebirth is a passion project led by Sir Richard Taylor (of Wētā Workshop) and Jamie Selkirk (Academy Award-winning editor of Return of the King), along with local hospitality duo Valentina and Daminda Dias. Thanks to their efforts, the cinema was lovingly restored, and today it features stunning art deco interiors. Outside the cinema, a bronze statue of Gandalf greets visitors, reminding us of the deep ties this neighborhood has to The Lord of the Rings.
• Fun fact: Up to half of Miramar’s 10,000 residents are directly employed in the film industry, in roles ranging from animation and costume design to logistics and catering, making it a vibrant, creative community.

Location 3: Park Road Post Production – World-Class Post Production

• As we turn onto Park Road, you’ll notice the buildings around you are integral to the film industry, including Wētā Workshop, Wētā FX, and even the Victoria University Film School.
• The crown jewel of this area is Park Road Post Production, a state-of-the-art post-production facility completed in 2005 for over $90 million USD, owned by Sir Peter Jackson. Park Road is world-renowned for its work in sound, editing, and visual effects for some of the biggest films and series in the world. Inside, the facility includes luxurious editing suites, a private 180-seat cinema, and even deluxe apartments for visiting directors. Peter Jackson’s office here is also home to a collection of Academy Awards and other prestigious memorabilia.
• A fun insider tip: the café here is known for its delicious steak and cheese pies—a Kiwi favourite!
• As we pass, keep an eye out for the blue lines on the road, which indicate tsunami safe zones. Given Wellington's location on a fault line, these markings serve as a reminder of the city’s earthquake and tsunami preparedness.

Wētā Workshop Tour (Stop/Pick-up) and on to Mt Victoria

• Drop your guests at Weta Workshop for their internal tour, and advise the time you will be back to pick them up.
• After picking up your guests and leaving Miramar you drive past the New World supermarket in Miramar, and note that this local store has probably seen more A-list celebrities doing their shopping than any other supermarket in the Southern Hemisphere! At the next intersection, before leaving Miramar, notice the building camouflaged by trees—this is one of 14 Wētā FX buildings scattered throughout the suburb. Wētā FX employs around 1,500 staff and has won numerous accolades, including six Academy Awards for visual effects, ten Academy Sci-Tech Awards, and six BAFTA Awards. Their revolutionary work includes iconic characters like Gollum, Kong, Neytiri from Avatar, and Caesar from Planet of the Apes, as well as the creation of entire fantasy worlds like Middle-earth and Pandora.
• As we continue, look to the left for more Wētā FX facilities on the hill. Fun fact: Wellington Airport has one of the shortest international runways in the world, only 2,000 meters long! The land bridge we’ll see more clearly from the top of Matairangi/Mt Victoria is known as Te Hao Whenua, which means "The Land Destroyer" and rose during an earthquake in the 1460s.
• This is also the perfect moment to talk about Peter Jackson’s incredible passion for film memorabilia. Over the years, he has amassed an astounding collection, including the iconic Chitty Chitty Bang Bang car, the Aston Martin from the James Bond films, props from Alien and Terminator, HAL 9000’s eye from 2001: A Space Odyssey, and the skeletons from Jason and the Argonauts. Jackson’s collection of items from the original King Kong (1933) is particularly significant, including the armature used in the film’s stop-motion animation.

Location 4: Mt Victoria/Outer Shire (Tour Stop)

• Before we head into the forest, take a look at the official Lord of the Rings location sign here. Despite there being over 150 outdoor filming locations used for the trilogy across New Zealand, there are only four official signs marking these sites. While the dramatic landscapes of Middle-earth are often associated with the South Island, only one of these signs is found there—at Edoras on Mt Sunday. The other three are here in the North Island: this one at Mt Victoria, one at Kaitoke Regional Park, and of course, the Hobbiton movie set near Matamata.
• As we walk down the path, notice the distinct characteristics of the forest here on Mt Victoria. Although the forest is primarily composed of non-native Monterey Pines, their gnarled and twisted trunks create an ancient, mystical feel, perfect for the eerie atmosphere of Middle-earth. Keep an eye out for native New Zealand species like Ponga (Silver Ferns), Harakeke (flax), Tī Kōuka (cabbage trees), Kawakawa, Tarata, Rangiora, Mānuka, and Rimu. There’s an ongoing effort to restore native species to the area, enhancing the local biodiversity.

Scene 1: A Shortcut to Mushrooms

• After walking the group up to the top of the film locations path stop by the ledge below the trees to start:
• This seemingly nondescript location holds a special place in Lord of the Rings history, as it was where the very first scene of the trilogy was filmed on October 11, 1999. This scene, where Merry and Pippin (having stolen some vegetables from Farmer Maggot’s field) bump into Frodo and Sam, marked the beginning of one of the longest principal photography shoots in film history—274 days!
• The cornfield in this scene was filmed at Matamata near the Hobbiton set, but the forest canopy we see here in Mt Victoria was added to create the right atmosphere. Despite being filmed during the day, fog machines were used to generate a spooky ambiance, concealing the eucalyptus trees, which weren’t exactly Middle-earth material!
• One of the amusing anecdotes from the shoot involves the Frodo stunt double missing the gym mat during a tumble down the hill and dislocating his shoulder. Director Peter Jackson, ever the opportunist, used the young man’s exclamation in the scene, showing his knack for turning accidents into memorable moments of movie magic.
• Dominic Monaghan, who played Merry, pointed out that this scene demonstrated Jackson’s commitment to honouring the fans of Tolkien’s books by having the characters talk about taking "a shortcut," directly referencing the chapter title “A Shortcut to Mushrooms.”

Scene 2: Escape off the Road

• After their tumble, the hobbits suddenly appear 50 meters down the path—this is an example of "cheating" a shot, a technique frequently used in filmmaking. And this brings us to one of the most iconic scenes in The Fellowship of the Ring: the terrifying moment when Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin hide from the Ringwraith under the roots of a tree.
• Frodo's growing awareness of the danger posed by the Ring is palpable in this scene. When Frodo hears a horse approaching, he urgently tells his friends to “Get off the road!”—a moment that still sends shivers down the spine of Lord of the Rings fans worldwide.
• Though this location is now obscured by a fence, the scene’s famous "Dolly Zoom" (or "Vertigo effect")—where the camera moves in while zooming out—creates an eerie sense of dread. The dramatic gust of wind and dead leaves, which were actually gathered from the Wellington Botanic Gardens, adds to the tension.
• Interestingly, Peter Jackson thought it would be “cute” to have spiders, centipedes, and worms crawling out from behind the hobbits’ heads to further heighten the sense of danger!
• This scene, where Frodo is tempted to put on the Ring but is stopped by Sam, is one of the most powerful early moments in the film, emphasizing the Ring’s malevolent power. The fiberglass tree roots created by Wētā Workshop for this scene are still visible, and the tree itself, referred to as "Frodo’s Tree," can be identified here on the path.

• The Race to the Buckleberry Ferry and the Ringwraiths' Breath: The final scene in the sequence is where the ringraiths are closing on the hobbits, as the run towards the Buckleberry Ferry and come face to face with the Black Riders.
• The eerie sight of the Black Rider atop the hill, silhouetted against the night sky with his tattered cloak billowing in the wind, creates an iconic and lasting image. The first shot was a menacing though gorgeous ‘A Frame shot’ taken looking up to this spot with the silhouette of the Black Rider against a large spotlight t night in the cold air.
• The cold air, presented another challenge to the director, as while the breath of the horse in the cool night air of Wellington was okay, not so seeing the Black Riders breathing visibly (being neither living or dead). It was going to be very expensive to digitally remove the breath (as this was a common problem throughout the shoot – in cold conditions), so the ingenious solution was to use a $15 snorkel and hosepipe to get rid of the steam.
• Kiwi Can-Do Attitude: This problem-solving mindset extended to many aspects of the production, where resourcefulness, creativity, and the ability to work within limited budgets and conditions became central to the success of the films. New Zealand’s rugged landscape and unpredictable weather were both assets and challenges, but Peter Jackson and his team embraced them fully.
• On-Set Injuries: While we’re talking about on-set issues, it’s worth sharing some of the memorable stories from the production. Sean Astin (Samwise Gamgee) famously stepped on a shard of glass while filming a scene where Sam wades into a river. He needed stitches and the production had to halt briefly. Viggo Mortensen (Aragorn), ever the method actor, broke two toes during the filming of a scene in The Two Towers when he kicked a helmet in frustration. He kept acting, and the resulting scream of agony you see in the film is real!
• Commitment of the Cast: In terms of the actors themselves, they committed fully to these roles. From the early weeks of sword fighting lessons with Bob Anderson to living in New Zealand for over a year during the production, they immersed themselves in the world of Middle-earth. Elijah Wood (Frodo), for example, was incredibly focused, knowing how pivotal his role was, while Dominic Monaghan (Merry) and Billy Boyd (Pippin) formed a deep friendship that added to the dynamic between their characters on-screen.
• As we finish up our time here on Mt Victoria, take a moment to look around and appreciate how this ordinary Wellington forest became part of one of the most famous fantasy realms in cinema history. With Peter Jackson’s vision and his team's incredible skill, they transformed this space into the world of hobbits, Ringwraiths, and all the magic that makes The Lord of the Rings so iconic.
• Now, let's get back on the road for our next stop. As we leave Mt Victoria, feel free to ask any questions you might have about what we've seen today!

 

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