Campermate NZ

Step behind the scenes 

Wētā Workshop is home to an entire team of creative artisans who’ve helped bring to life films such as The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, King Kong, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Avatar and many others. 

Take an exclusive glimpse through the windows of our Wellington workshop on a guided tour of our creative home.

Visit Wētā Workshop Experiences in Wellington and learn about the making of movie effects, from armour to aliens, creatures to costumes and makeup to miniatures.

Wellington Weta Workshop Experience

The tour starts with a drive along the Wellington Waterfront and up Mt Victoria to the Mt Victoria Lookout for stunning 360 degree views of Wellington city and it's picturesque harbour. Take a scenic coastal drive around Oriental Bay and Evans Bay Parades and take a look at the variety of private cable cars perched precariously on the hillside.

Make a brief stop at the iconic Wellington Blown Away sign before a visit to the famous Weta Cave Shop, the hub of Weta Studio Tours in Miramar, Wellington. It's not just a retail store: it's a cavern of creativity. At the Weta Cave you can snap a selfie with the life-sized sculptures, wander through the mini museum, and watch the exclusive documentary. It's a movie lover's paradise.

The coastal theme continues with a drive along scenic Shelly Bay and around the Miramar Peninsula including a lunch stop at a seaside café or restaurant (mains and a drink included).

The tour takes on a sombre tone with a short stop at the Wahine Memorial Park before you explore the south Wellington coast, Taputarenga Marine Reserve and Te Kopahou Reserve Visitors Centre.

The tour returns to the city via the Brooklyn Wind Turbine with it's unbeatable city views before a return to the city proper with downtown sights including an optional ride in the famous Wellington Cable Car (tickets not included) and a look at the Lady Norwood Rose Gardens via a walk through the Botanical Gardens. The final tour destination is Old St. Paul's Cathedral and its impressive stained glass windows. Explore the native hardwood timber cathedral which dates back to 1856. A drop off service completes the tour.

Wellington Coastal Highlights Tour with Lunch

Discover three top breweries and savour an amazing range of locally crafted beer in Wellington and the Hutt Valley on this half-day brewery tour. Your friendly local guide will take you to Kereru, a family-owned brewery known for its quality and sustainable practices, to kick off your trip. Here, you can sample a variety of quality brews, some crafted with ingredients unique to New Zealand. Next, visit Panhead Brewery, renowned for its bold and creative craft beers. You’ll discover the brewery's history and soak in the lively atmosphere that has attracted beer lovers since its launch in 2013. Finally, visit Baylands Brewery for a tasting of their outstanding tap beers and explore their wide selection of homebrewing supplies. With the beautiful landscapes of the Hutt Valley and Wellington as your backdrop, this small group tour promises an unforgettable experience with great beer. 

Wellington Craft Brewery Tour - Half Day

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through New Zealand's rugged private farmland and along its striking geological fault lines, revealing the incredible diversity of the landscape. As you journey across this dramatic terrain, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Cook Strait, where its shimmering waters stretch endlessly towards the horizon and panoramic vistas of the South Island and the towering Kaikoura Ranges standing proudly in the distance.

The adventure continues as you descend to sea level for an up-close encounter with some of New Zealand’s most cherished marine life. In their natural coastal habitat, you’ll have the rare chance to observe the playful New Zealand Fur Seals, as they bask lazily on rocky shores or frolic joyfully in the surf. This unique experience seamlessly blends natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure, creating memories that will last a lifetime. 

Wellington Seal Coast Safari - 3.5 Hours

Families can embark on an unforgettable full day adventure in Wellington, the heart of Middle-earth, with this all-inclusive Lord of the Rings tour. Perfect for fans of all ages, the journey takes visitors through iconic filming locations from the beloved trilogy, where New Zealand’s stunning landscapes brought Tolkien’s fantasy world to life. Along the way, families will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local venue, offering a taste of Wellington’s culinary delights.

The adventure also includes an exclusive behind-the-scenes visit to the renowned Weta Workshop, where families will get an up-close look at the artistry and craftsmanship behind the incredible props, costumes, and special effects that made the Lord of the Rings films legendary. Combining breathtaking scenery, cinematic history, and a taste of local culture, this tour is a must-do for families looking to immerse themselves in the magic of Middle-earth.

Lord of the Rings Full Day Tour from Wellington with Lunch

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Wellington's most captivating sights on this Half-Day Must-See Attractions Group Tour. Led by passionate local experts, this 3.5 hour adventure unveils the city's hidden treasures and iconic landmarks. Begin your expedition with a visit to the majestic Mt. Victoria Lookout, where panoramic views of Wellington's harbour and cityscape will take your breath away. Next, delve into the world of movie magic at the renowned Weta Cave, home to props and costumes from famous films.

Then you'll experience the charm of Wellington's historic Cable Car as you ascend to the picturesque Botanic Gardens. Then your journey will continue to the heart of New Zealand's democracy at Parliament Grounds, where you'll learn about the country's political history at the 'Beehive'. Your knowledgeable guides will provide full commentary, offering fascinating insights into the city.

Wellington City Sightseeing Group Tour - Half Day

Discover Wellington with this immersive tour, led by expert local guides. Start at the iconic Mt Victoria Lookout, followed by a visit to the Te Kopahou Visitor Centre at Owhiro Bay. Enjoy a scenic coastal drive to Weta Workshop, where creativity comes to life. Take in the sun-soaked Oriental Bay before heading to the National War Memorial area.

Then, a drive through the vibrant inner city reveals architectural treasures, including the Parliament Buildings and the historic Old St Paul’s. Hop aboard the Wellington Cable Car for panoramic views, followed by a peaceful stroll through the Botanical Gardens. You'll enjoy a leisurely café lunch (not included), then delve into New Zealand’s history with a 1-hour tour of Te Papa. This tour is the perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and must-see landmarks!

Wellington City Sightseeing Group Tour - Full Day

Wellington is surrounded by beautiful hills and a stunning harbour. This guided bike tour introduces you to Wellington and shows off many of it's natural gems. The modern electric bikes take the hard work out of the hills and any wind along the way that the city is famous for. Your local guide will share insights into Wellington's vibrant city and rich culture.

You will meet your guide at Queens Wharf in central Wellington in time for a 10am departure. After a quick safety briefing, take a moment or two to learn how to operate your electric bike and enjoy time to practice in a car-free space before heading out.

Once you’re comfortable, saddle up for a fun bike tour of Wellington's bays and follow your guide along the waterfront. Glide along the seafront, passing the lively harbour and the beaches of Oriental Bay - filled with swimmers and sun-bathers in the summer. Continue along towards Miramar Peninsula and leave the bustle of the city behind as you cycle along the scenic coast. Pause along the way at a local café before looping back towards the city.

Finally, set the bikes to 'turbo' to climb up to the lookout point of Mt Victoria for an unforgettable view over Wellington, the Miramar Peninsula, and the ocean harbour entrance.

The bikes are modern 'pedal assist' electric bikes - you pedal and the bikes smoothly 'amplify' your own effort up to 275%. You can choose the level of assistance that suits you - strong riders only use the assistance sometimes and occasional riders keep the power level up high!  This means that the group are able to ride at the mostly the same speed.  The bikes have more than enough battery to ride the whole way on full power.

Electric Bays Tour - Guided Wellington Electric Bike Tour

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital and the true heart of Middle-earth. This is your chance to step into the world of epic storytelling, exploring the very city that brought J.R.R. Tolkien’s magical universe to life on the big screen on a half day Lord of the Rings day tour. Wellington is home to some of the most iconic Lord of the Rings filming locations, from the lush, green forests of Rivendell to the awe-inspiring mountain ranges that served as the backdrop for many epic battle scenes. As you wander through the city, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped straight into Tolkien’s world, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable sights.

Your journey also includes an exclusive tour of the legendary Weta Workshop, where the magic of the films was brought to life. Gain behind-the-scenes access to the creative minds responsible for designing the props, costumes, and special effects that made the Lord of the Rings trilogy legendary. The workshop is home to world-class artists and craftspeople whose incredible craftsmanship has helped shape some of the most iconic cinematic moments in history. This is more than just a tour, it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the rich history, artistry, and wonder that made Middle-earth come to life. Whether you’re a die-hard Lord of the Rings fan or simply an adventurer at heart, Wellington offers an experience that will transport you into a world of magic and adventure. Don’t miss out, this is a must-visit destination for all!

Lord of the Rings Half Day Tour from Wellington with Weta Workshop

Tighten up your walking shoes and get ready to explore one of New Zealand's best wildlife attractions. Zealandia in Wellington is home to an incredible amount of native animals including the famous Kiwi. A visit to Zealandia will get you up close to a range of animals while also learning about the country's wildlife history. 

This experience provides you with entry to the park as well as a guided 2-hour tour of the grounds. An informative tour hosting a maximum of 12 Tours, this is one of the best ways to learn about the region, the animals that have and do live in the region and more! 

With the help of a knowledgeable guide, you'll be able to see and learn about native birds such as the Kaka, Hihi, Tieke and Kakariki as well as Tuataras.

Tous depart on a daily basis at 10am, 11am and 1pm from the Visitor Centre.

Zealandia by Day Guided Experience

A scenic Wellington whitewater rafting tour along the lower section of Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt River Gorge is the perfect introduction to the watersport for beginners and families. Come and experience the natural beauty within Wellington during a paddle down small rapids and rock jumps.  

Starting at the beginning of the Grade 2 section of the river, learn how to paddle before being guided through easy rapids with expert guides. There is also an opportunity to stop for photos by a cascading waterfall and take a dip in the refreshing waters. The scenic white water rafting tour is ideal for first timers and families allowing you to build your confidence before tackling the more challenging Grade 3 wilderness tour.

Te Awa Kairangi - Hutt River Grade 2 Scenic Rafting Tour

Explore the pristine wilderness on a whitewater rafting adventure down the mighty Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt River Gorge. Paddle down 10km of exciting Grade 3 rapids while taking in the natural beauty of New Zealand’s native flora and fauna with expert guides leading the way. More experienced white water rafting enthusiasts may opt for an inflatable kayak for two for an extra dose of adrenaline.  

The Wellington whitewater rafting adventure includes light refreshments and a hot beverage to warm you up in the cooler months. If you’re looking for an extraordinary experience to share with your family or friends, this epic rafting tour is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. Tours are available all year round with two departures daily.

Whitewater Rafting Tour on Te Awa Kairangi - Grade 3

Enjoy a five hour guided tour over the Remutaka Ranges into the Martinborough wine region in the Wairarapa. Visit three of the region's best wineries and enjoy their cellar door experiences as you you sample the world class products available. With the small group size, your tour guide will be able to customise the wineries you visit to suit the tastes of your group.

The comprehensive Wellington winery tour includes a city pick up from Wellington i-SITE or centrally located hotels before you head out on a scenic drive following the Hutt River into the valley and Remutaka Ranges with a photo stop at the Summit. Sample some local cheeses at C'est Cheese before arriving in Martinborough for a series of wine tasting adventures at exclusive, boutique wineries. The five hour tour will have you returning to Wellington City or your hotel in the mid afternoon after a one of a kind culinary adventure. 

Half Day Martinborough Winery Tour

The tour departs at 10:00am and travels north east, following the Hutt River into the Hutt Valley and a visit to the Kaitoke Regional Park including a crossing of the swing bridge and a loop walk through the original native rainforest. This is followed by a scenic drive over the Remutaka Ranges, including a stop at the Summit for spectacular views.

The tour then descends into the Wairarapa region, passing through Featherston for a visit to Cest Cheese (closed Tuesday) and into Greytown for a chocolate tasting at Schoc Chocs before arriving in the quaint winery town of Martinborough. Here you will visit award winning wineries and enjoy their cellar door experiences and sample their world renowned wines before a sumptuous lunch at a vineyard restaurant.

The tour then heads to the rugged south Wairarapa coast and Cape Palliser. The tour follows the edge of the coast, providing unstoppable views of the Bay before exploring the rural fishing village of Ngawi with it's iconic tractors hauling fishing boats up the beach. Marvel at the North Island's largest permanent fur seal colony and test your fitness on a climb to the Cape Palliser Lighthouse that provides epic sweeping sea views.

After working up an appetite take a short walk along the edge of Lake Onoke (Lake Ferry) and hear about its history whilst local fisherman haul in their catches fresh from the ocean and sit down at the historic lake Ferry Hotel for dinner.

The tour then returns to Wellington via the Remutakas and State Highway 2 for an 8:00pm drop off.

Wine and Wild Coast Tour

Experience the magic of Weta Workshop with the "There and Back Again" guided tour. This three-hour adventure includes return transfers from Wellington i-SITE to Weta Studio Tours, with your driver pointing out iconic film sites along the way. Upon arrival, capture photos with sculptures, explore the props showcase, and browse the retail shop. Your ticket includes seating for a behind-the-scenes documentary. A Weta Workshop crew member will then guide you through props and costumes from films like The Lord of the Rings and Avatar. Note: Filming and photography are prohibited during the tour, and children must be accompanied by an adult 14 years or older. No refunds for late arrivals.

Wētā Workshop Guided Transfers & Tour

Gain an epic insight into Wētā Workshop’s creativity for blockbuster films and hit television shows with an incredible behind-the-scenes experience. This tour offers an exclusive look at the artistry and craftsmanship behind some of the most famous props, costumes, and effects in the film industry. After working up an appetite, return to the city and taste the best of Aotearoa’s cuisine at Karaka Café on the waterfront, known for its delicious and authentic New Zealand dishes. Guided return transfers are included, ensuring a comfortable journey. Along the way, your driver will point out iconic landmarks and provide fascinating commentary, adding to the overall enriching experience.

Half Day: Tours, Transfers & Lunch - 4 Hours

Roll up your sleeves for an introduction to the magic of sculpture and bring a fantastical character to life. Be guided through sculpting basics by the Wētā Workshop crew. Learn how to craft a sculpture using household materials and modelling clay. Take your sculpture home to finish and display. Work in small groups, allowing for one-on-one time with our crew. No creative experience is necessary—just bring yourself and your enthusiasm

Creative Workshop Intro To Sculpting - 1 Hour 

No humans were harmed in the making of this workshop! Learn the art of crafting convincing special effects by mixing blood and sculpting your own scars and scrapes at our ‘Intro to SFX’ workshop. Begin your journey as a special effects makeup artist: In this introductory workshop, you will learn how to make fake blood, apply a custom fake wound to yourself using silicon and paint it to look like the real thing.

Creative Workshop - Intro to Scars and Scrapes


For over 20 years, Wētā Workshop has crafted beautiful leatherwork for the big screen. Having kitted out countless armies with chainmaille and leather-adorned costumes, our crew has contributed to the visual splendour of many films, such as The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, The Chronicles of Narnia and more, by creating the costumes and weapons seen on screen.

Step into the world of handcrafted costume design and discover the art of leatherwork in our hands-on workshop. Craft side-by-side with our crew learning techniques that bring timeless leather accessories to life on screen as you refine, design and dye your own creation.

In this beginner workshop you’ll also learn how to stamp and emboss, adding personalised design to genuine leather using traditional techniques. Then dye and finish your sample, exploring colour application with professional dyes to give your keepsake character. Then take your creation home!

Our creative workshops cater to small groups to allow for one-on-one learning with our crew. 

No creative experience is necessary.

Creative Workshop Intro to Leatherwork

This special night tour of New Zealand's Zealandia is one of the best places to see kiwi in the wild in all of NZ! A truly unique experience, you'll join your friendly guide for a torchlit walk through Zealandia's amazing Sanctuary Valley as it comes alive under the cover of nightfall - many of the cutest species of New Zealand are nocturnal, so this is the time to see them at their most active. 

The sights - kiwi rummaging around the forest, tuatara on the hunt for a meal, shimmering glow worms, kākā parrots settling into their roost - combine with the sounds of the New Zealand forest to make for a magical experience great for both adults and kids alike. Grab your ticket online to take part in what world renowned travel guide Lonely Planet dubbed a "life-changing experience - book now to experience Zealandia for yourself!

Zealandia by Night Tour - 2.5 Hours

Embark on an incredible full-day taste buds tour from Wellington. Enjoy tastings at five Wairarapa producers and savour a lovely lunch at a local vineyard while travelling through the stunning Remutaka Ranges. Your friendly local guide will share stories and insights during a scenic drive past the harbour to the beautiful Wairarapa region. Visit a world-class winery in Martinborough for a fascinating grape-to-glass tour. Throughout the day, look forward to tastings of award-winning wines, delicious infused extra virgin olive oils, and a selection of local and imported cheeses, chocolates and craft beers. To top it all off, you’ll be treated to a delicious lunch and a drink at a charming vineyard restaurant. This tour is the perfect escape from the city, revealing the hidden treasures of New Zealand’s creative capital. Book now for an unforgettable day of flavourful experiences and breathtaking scenery.  

Wairarapa Taste Buds Tour - Full Day 

Enjoy a 5 hour return guided tour over the spectacular Remutaka Ranges to the Wairarapa region, home of world class culinary producers.

Enjoy a stop at C'est Cheese Artisan Cheese and Deli where where you can taste some of the amazing range of products made by New Zealand’s specialist cheesemakers. The tour then takes you to the world-class wine region of Martinborough, famed for its pinot noir, for a tasting flight at one of the premier local wineries with an artisan cheese platter. The next stop takes you to the boutique township - Greytown, where you can indulge in the exquisite creations of chocolatier Murray Langham at Schoc Chocolates.

Tour includes tasting fees at the three foodie stops! Opportunity for an optional lunch is provided at the vineyard (at guests' expense). Alternatively, guests can use this free time to visit the Martinborough Town Square.

Martinborough Foodie Tour with Wine Tasting - 5 Hours

Step into the enchanting world of the Lord of the Rings on this full-day, immersive tour that brings Middle Earth to life like never before. Begin your journey at the iconic Mount Victoria Lookout, where Frodo evaded the Black Riders, and take in the sweeping 360-degree views of the city, harbour, and Cook Strait. Continue your adventure through the Hutt Valley, discovering legendary filming locations such as Helm’s Deep, Rivendell, and the Outer Shire, where New Zealand’s landscapes were transformed into unforgettable cinematic masterpieces.

At Weta Workshop, go behind the scenes to handle authentic props and uncover the secrets of moviemaking magic. Guided by passionate experts who share fascinating stories at every stop, you’ll be immersed in the rich lore of the films. Enjoy a delicious lunch before concluding your journey at the historic Embassy Theatre, where the final film of the trilogy premiered to the world. This tour is an absolute must for every Lord of the Rings fan, filled with natural beauty and unforgettable moments that will captivate and inspire.

Immersive Lord of the Rings Filming Location Day Tour

Set off on an unforgettable half-day Lord of the Rings tour in Wellington that offers a new perspective on Middle Earth, connecting you with its spellbinding landscapes. Begin your adventure at Mount Victoria Lookout, where stunning panoramic views create the perfect backdrop for your journey. Venture into the forests of the Outer Shire, where Frodo and Sam set out on their epic quest, and uncover the cinematic atmosphere of Dunharrow, learning the behind-the-scenes secrets that brought these iconic locations to life.

Continue your adventure with a visit to the renowned Weta Workshop, where you’ll be immersed in the artistry of filmmaking, discovering the incredible props and costumes crafted for the trilogy. Wrap up your tour at the historic Embassy Theatre, the site of The Return of the King premiere, leaving you inspired by the magic of Lord of the Rings. This is an experience no fan can miss.