Nelson Tasman beholds a vast array of beauty, from the marble karst landforms on the Tākaka Hill to the picturesque waterfalls of the Aorere River, and, if you’re a Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit fan, this 4-day itinerary will take you on a tiki-tour of many of the spectacular landscapes that feature in Peter Jackson’s famous trilogies.
Highlights
Mt Olympus and Mt Owen
Salisbury Falls and the Aorere River
Wanganui Inlet
Start your day with a scenic drive from Nelson to Golden Bay. The coastal highway will treat you to some of Tasman Bay’s treasures, offering stunning views of the mountainous ranges hugging the plains before them and of the tidal estuary adorned with stone art of many persuasions.
The first stop will be the Riuwaka Resurgence, which, although not one of Peter Jackson’s film locations, is the perfect place to begin your tiki tour of this iconic destination. The crystal-clear springs are nestled amongst lush native bush and are fed by the limestone passages and marble cracks of Tākaka Hill.
Next up on the tour is the site of Chetwood Forest, situated in the Canaan Downs Scenic Reserve. The ancient beech trees that tower above you and the marble outcrops that lay before you are a welcome reminder of the site where the Hobbits fled from Bree and the Black Riders into the forest in Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.
After a day of unexpected adventures, settle in at The Mussel Inn for an evening of great local flavours, craft beer, cider and if you're lucky, some live music. This much-loved venue is set within a rustic cottage and converted woolshed, making it the perfect place to unwind before retreating to Kaihoka Farmstay for the night.
We recommend staying two or three nights at Kaihoka Farmstay. Stay in a cosy farm cottage and explore the spectacular landscapes where scenes from The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey were filmed, with rolling hills, rugged coastline and wide open spaces that feel straight out of Middle-earth. Please note that walks across the farm are closed during September and October for lambing, although accommodation remains available year-round.
Driving back over the hill toward the Jens Hansen studio in Nelson City, you’ll get a first-hand look at the artisan craftsmanship of none other than the creator of the ‘One Ring’. Ponder over the passion, dedication and talent of the jewellers before settling in at Tides Hotel. Round off the day with dinner at Tides Bar & Eatery, where local flavours, fresh seasonal ingredients and relaxed riverside views make for the perfect end to an unforgettable day.
The final day of your tiki tour will have you experiencing even more of the major film sites from Peter Jackson’s trilogies, with a trifecta of helicopter landings atop Mount Olympus, Mount Owen and Salisbury Falls. As you venture into the breathtaking scenery of the Kahurangi National Park, your pilot will entertain you with tales and stories from the film shoots, and ensure your Lord of the Rings experience ends on a high.
Join the Nelson MTB Club and ride more for less! Unlimited shuttle days.
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Breakfast for two A half day trip with Golden Bay Kayaks. Scroll for Offer.
Includes packed lunch
Farewell Spit Tour for 2 Picnic Lunch for 2 Scroll to Golden Bay Getaway
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Perfect for a celebration Includes daily breakfast Dinner one evening, bubbles
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