When Peter Jackson set out on his search to find some of New Zealand's most remarkable places for filming the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, it's no wonder he stumbled upon Nelson Tasman.
Nelson Tasman is home to Jens Hansen, the goldsmith who crafted the 40 unique rings for the production has one of the original rings on display. Replicas in 9ct and 18ct gold are available for purchase.
West of Nelson, the picturesque Chetwood Forest scenes were captured atop Tākaka Hill at the Canaan Downs Scenic Reserve. In this enchanting woodland, Aragorn guided the hobbits in their escape from Bree, eluding the relentless Black Riders.
Scenes for the Anduin Grasslands and Beorn’s House were filmed here, too.
A harsh alpine environment with a stunning landscape of glaciated marble karst, Mount Owen is where the Fellowship escaped the Mines of Moria. Mount Owen and Olympus are nestled in the remote backcountry and can be visited during a tour with Helicopters Nelson.
Salisbury Falls is where Tauriel and Legolas meet before heading into Laketown. It is a truly picturesque place, perfect for a quick dip and a visit to the falls.
The Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve, located halfway between Blenheim and Nelson, is the recreational paradise handpicked by Sir Peter Jackson himself. A river valley tucked into one corner of a forested conservation area is now world-famous as the setting for the dwarves escaping in barrels scene.
Kaihoka Station was used as Weatherhills in the scene where The Company arrives at a destroyed farmhouse. The location is on private land.
