Middle-Earth Adventures in New Zealand

While reconstructing the Hobbiton set for the filming of “The Hobbit” trilogy, builders used permanent materials in order to preserve the set as a tourist destination. // © 2014 Air New Zealand

The glowworms on the walls of Waitomo Caves create a surreal, star-like backdrop for visitors to this popular North Island destination. // © 2014 Waitomo Glowworm Caves

The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co. offers adventurous tours at Waitomo Caves, such as the “Black Labyrinth” tour, which gives clients a chance to float, climb and splash their way through Ruakuri Cave. // © 2014 The Legendary Black Water Rafting Co.

Dart River Jet takes clients deep into Mount Aspiring National Park on the only tours allowed on the Dart River, passing multiple Middle-earth filming locations along the way. // © 2014 Dart River Jet

As an alternative to the company’s exhilarating jet boating tours, Dart River Jet’s funyak tours let clients enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace. // © 2014 Dart River Jet

Dart Stables’ relaxed “The Ride of the Rings” tour passes actual filming locations in Paradise, such as the woods where the Lothlorien scenes were filmed for “The Lord of the Rings.” // © 2014 Dart Stables

For advanced riders only, Dart Stables’ “The Trilogy Loop” tour offers fast-paced rides along gorgeous rivers with views of scenery from the films, including the peaks used to represent the Misty Mountains. // © 2014 Dart Stables

With pilots who worked on aerial filming for both trilogies, Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters’ tours provide special insight into the beautiful filming locations. // © 2014 Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters

Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters’ tours include alpine and glacier landings in addition to gorgeous aerial views. // © 2014 Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters

While reconstructing the Hobbiton set for the filming of “The Hobbit” trilogy, builders used permanent materials in order to preserve the set as a tourist destination. // © 2014 Hobbiton Tours

Among Nomad Safaris’ film-inspired excursions, the “Safari of the Scenes” tour in Glenorchy takes visitors to multiple filming locations from “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit.” // © 2014 Nomad Safaris

The same building used for the Green Dragon Inn in the films now serves as a restaurant and pub serving themed meals and drinks. // © 2014 Hobbiton Tours