Our tour guide Liz was whuking AMAZING! We had the best day with her on the Full Day Lord of the Rings tour! We went to several filming locations and toured the Weta Workshop. A fantastic day in the Wellington area!
About Activity
What's Included
Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Private tour
- Driver/guide
- Port pickup and drop-off
- Live commentary on board
- Lunch, refreshments and afternoon tea
- Transport by private vehicle
Excludes
- Gratuities
Departure & Return
Departure Point
- Traveler pick up offered
Itinerary
Stunning views of the city and harbour
View the Weta Cave, museum and shop
Lunch with refreshments by the sea
Visit the Outdoor museum and take in the view across to the South Island
Enjoy the ride up the hill and the views from atop
Wander down through the Botanical Gardens to smell the roses
Meander past the buildings where the big decisions are made
One of the most beautiful wooden churches in the world
This is a historic military site with commanding views of the greater Wellington region.
Language Offered
Additional Info
Cancellation Policy
Reviews
While we were waiting for our tour guide we asked another coach driver if we were in the right place for this tour he directed us and also informed us we would have a great day well sadly this didn’t happen. We felt this tour was very rushed due to the guide informing us our tour would finish early at approx 3pm and not 4.30pm due to a road closure to the port, this information was given to us part way through the day after lunch. Parts of the tour were amazing but being rushed through the botanical garden and other places was very disappointing. We also feel the guide needs some pointers on etiquette in the company of guests as her frequent use of the F word and C word profanities used were extremely off putting and disgusting. Would we book this tour again ? yes with a different tour guide and full tour time.
I had such an enjoyable experience on the private tour of Wellington. Our guide was thoughtful, friendly, and incredibly helpful throughout the day. Steve took the time to check in with us, asking what we wanted to know and tailoring the tour to our interests. Not only did they share great advice on places to visit and things to watch out for, but they also kept the conversation engaging and insightful. We explored a variety of attractions around Wellington e.g. the Weta Cave, Beehive Parliament, with fascinating stories and history that brought the city to life. There's also good lunch near wellywood. To top it off, our guide helped us capture some wonderful photos around the city, making the memories even more special. Overall, it was a fantastic way to experience Wellington, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a personalised and memorable tour to top attractions in Wellington.
I had a quick trip to Wellington so this city day tour was perfect to see all around Wellington. The tour guide was very informative and catered the private tour to accommodate.
We had a fantastic day, our guide was very knowledgeable about the lord of the rings filming locations and the area of Wellington in general. Weta workshops was also a great part of the day. Everything was well planned and ran smoothly. Thank you 😊
I know you can't see a city in one day but Andrew did a wonderful job of taking my husband and I around Auckland. We started by driving along the harbor and up to the highest point in Auckland with a 360 view of the city. We drove along the beach, saw the Wellington city sign, the Weta studios, had a very good lunch at the Chocolate Fish Cafe, saw the NZ War Museum, downtown, rode the cable car, etc. Andrew was very friendly, and knowledgeable and we enjoyed the day we spent with him! I would definitely recommend Andrew and this tour! You won't regret it!
Liz was a fun, low key tour guide. It was us with 2 other couple’s in her Mercedes Van. We were stress free as she navigated the highlights of Wellington! The Chocolate Fish Cafe was delicious!
Steve our guide was superb. We hit it off with him from the moment we met because of his extremely likeable nature. Although he had a plan of Wellington highlights, we discussed what best worked for us and he adapted his schedule to suit. He was extremely knowledgeable about the history of Wellington being an ex-teacher and we discussed a whole range of topics throughout the day. Although we had never met before, it was comparable to having a day in the company of an old friend. We only had a day to appreciate the sights and sounds of Wellington and Steve made sure that we did just that.
Thanks to our guidedriver we had a great time in Wellington and enjoyed a beautiful city and landscape. We only regretted that time passed by very quickly.
Our tour guide had taught as what there is to know about the city and points of interest. It was an enjoyable experience
We had a wonderful guide, Selwyn, who was very knowledgeable and very adaptable to our requests. We visited many prominent landmarks - Parliament House, the Mt Victoria Lookout, the Cable Car, The Basin Reserve, to name a few - and had a delicious lunch on the waterfront. It was an entertaining day from start to finish. I highly recommend it. Thanks, Selwyn!
We booked this trip just two days in advance, and Andrew was able to make our private trip a reality. Andrew was fantastic, prompt, kind, informative, and accommodating. It was a very overcast and windy day, that because of Andrew, was made fun. We learned a lot about Wellington, which was our hope for the day! Thank you Andrew for a lovely day!
Very expensive for what it’s worth. It says includes tickets to places, but the only place you needed ticket is the cable car, which is not that expensive at all. Package also mentions refreshments and tea but No refreshments or afternoon tea was given. Only stopped for lunch at a cafe. Tour is only good for you, if you can’t drive or google what places to visit yourself. You can do the whole tour by yourself (if you can hire a car and drive) under NZD $200 for 2-3 people and eat at your choice of restaurant. Tour guide is good but overall it’s just too pricey for what it is.
Andrew our tour guide knew his stuff. My mother and I had a wonderful time. My mother saw and found out everything. We loved the chocolate fish Cafe. Food and drinks were amazing. Would definitely recommend. Worth every penny spent.
The guide was very knowledgable and kind. He knew all about NZ and made us feel very welcome. We also liked the fact that lunch and tickets were included.
Our guide John was very knowledgeable and professional in showing us the beautiful city of Wellington and surrounding areas.
Tour operator was very accommodating to our needs. She was very personable and friendly. She drove us to Zealandia, Mount Victoria, along the preserve, and to our requested restaurant!
Our guide Selwyn was fantastic! Very fun and knowledgeable. It was a very enjoyable day seeing sights all around Wellington. Delicious lunch was included. Price was very reasonable. Would highly recommend!!!!
Kelvin, our driver was marvelous, he knew of our ship's 1 hour earlier departure even before he arrived. Family/friend trip for 8 and our mobility impaired folks were well accommodated by him. Fantastic sights, awesome commentary, great suggestions to tailor the trip to what we wanted to see/do . I highly recommend this company...and an extemely delicious lunch was provided! Fantastic time had by all!
This tour more than met our expectations. Sam was an excellent guide and, having limited time in Wellington, we were really happy with all we saw which included Mt Victoria, beaches, Weta Cave, the Wellington cable car, botanic gardens, old St Paul’s church and the old and current parliament buildings. We had a lovely and relaxing lunch at the Chocolate Fish Cafe. Highly recommend this tour.
We had a great day on our private tour of Wellington! Andrew was an amazing guide with so much knowledge to share. We never would have been able to see what he showed us on our own. Lunch at Chocolate Fish was delicious too! We highly recommend taking this tour!
An Amazing experience to see the sights and get a detailed history of Wellington. Our Tour guide John had an incredible history tied to New Zealand’s military history that was very special. He was extremely knowledgeable and took us in a very comfortable vehicle throughout Wellington and the surrounding areas. We had an amazing lunch and took priceless photos of our family in the beautiful areas we visited. Would recommend this private setting 1000%
we saw and did more in Wellington than we did on other excursions. Our driver Steve explained the effects of the earthquake and gave us a more complete understanding of the city.
Windy day in Wellington, but great tour! Andrew was a good guide. Due to an event in the city, he adjusted the tour and we kept busy seeing beautiful sites outside the city center. Saw outstanding beaches and vistas, Peter Jackson’s production facilities and store (bought and avid Hobbit friend a t-shirt), Old St. Paul’s church, rode the cable car, saw National Govt buildings. Great lunch at the Chocolate Fish. and Andrew bought us some chocolate fish to try. yummy local treat. Also had time to spend a little time in the National Museum of New Zealand. Great Gallipoli exhibit.
Loved the spectacular views and visit to the national museum. Lunch was at a lovely location and very relaxed.
the Lord of the Rings sightseeing tour and Weta cave was a great tour. Would highly recommend. My husband and I enjoyed hearing about Wellington, and the Lord of the Rings locations, and the Weta Cave was an unexpected highlight. We are not superfans but enjoyed it so much. Kelvie was a great guide!
Andrew was a perfect host. Our tour of Wellington included many sites throughout the city and very interesting commentary on historical figures. I would recommend this tour
We loved our day with Selwyn. He was a ball of energy and personalised our trip so my husband could see his old rugby clubs he played with, back in the early 90's. He took us to the landmarks and sights we were interested in. Had a lovely lunch, cuppa and a beer too. Thank you Selwyn!
We had a few days to spend in Wellington and this was the perfect way to do so. We didn't have to worry about getting lost, parking, driving on the narrow streets (which we are not used to). We enjoyed our time and Sam was great!
Our guide, Steve, was so knowledgeable, warm, informative and delightful! He gave us a real feel for this beautiful city, taking us to fantastic lookout points. We thoroughly enjoyed sightseeing with him.
Kelvin toured us all around beautiful Wellington. He provided a rich historical experience. We rode the tram, walked in gardens, learned about the history and people of New Zealand. The National focus on the environment is evident after seeing Zealandia and the Brooklyn turbine. The private tour was worth it.
Andrew was fabulous company and very well informed. We had him all to ourselves in a lovely car. Top tour of the coast, vantage spots, etc. No hurry.
Very nice trip. Great place to visit and best way to see the city. I would recommend to anybody. Nice lunch also.
We had a great day with John. He met us early and we fit in all the highlights plus a quick shop for All Blacks merchandise before getting back to the cruise ship that left early. He was full of information and we saw so much. We loved every minute. Great tour in a great city.
Steve was wonderful. He picked us up at the foot of the cruise ship gangway and gave us wonderful commentary on his country and customs throughout the day. We started by viewing downtown and the main government offices as he answered our questions about local and national issues. We then proceeded to the top of the mountain to look down over the entire city while he pointed out places of interest. Lunch was at a beach side cafe where my husband tried the local favorite, whitebait, which was very mild and enjoyable. We took a cable car ride to the top of a mountain, and this was the only portion of the day that I would have chosen to skip, as it really did not afford any views that were better than any others. While at the top, we explored the cable car museum, which offered older cars for viewing and information on the building and functioning of the system. Steve met us at the top of the cable car and took us to the botanical garden where we walked the rose garden which was slightly past prime blooming but still had some lovely specimens. The begonia house, however, was in full bloom and absolutely gorgeous. Steve then drove us around to another portion of the botanical garden, fully wooded, and escorted us through, explaining different plants and their history of use. Before returning us back to the cruise ship we stopped at a local pub for a fleet of beer tasting for my husband and a glass of wine for me. Normally he said he would have gone to the brewery for the tasting but since I don’t drink beer he made the adjustment. Throughout the day, he was open to all questions and shared much about his personal experiences which greatly enhanced our understanding of the locale and enjoyment of the day. It was a wonderfully enjoyable and educational day.
This was supposed to be the Full Day Lord of the Rings Tour. Somehow this company failed to book our tour at Weta Cave and then fail to mention it to us until I was already picked up and in the car. Here my husband and I are, a week into our vacation as LOTR fans awaiting for the big climax to our stay in New Zealand… Wellywood. This was supposed to be the highlight of our vacation. This is our honeymoon. We are both love filmmaking and I’m a huge LOTR fan and no Weta Cave. We booked this tour months ago. What happened? I was trying to be as pleasant of a customer as possible but am just disgusted at the poor communication. I tried to sleep on it, but I honestly feel scammed. I wanted a Weta Workshop experience which is about half the cost of this tour we booked. Don’t get me wrong. Wellington is beautiful and our guide Selwyn was a great guy. This was just not the experience I paid for. I paid expecting to visit and tour INSIDE Weta Workshop plus film locations, but instead I got a random person’s home and her collectibles, plus film locations. At least let me know so I can actually personalize my own damn tour. I was enthusiastic but I am not a happy customer.
Sam was a great tour guide! He was super friendly and knowledgeable about Wellington and the surrounding area. Would highly recommend booking this tour - we had a great time exploring Wellington and the Lord of the Rings filming locations!
I loved the entire tour, laid back but informative. Beautiful scenery, interesting monuments and places and a great guide.
We toured Wellington by car, seeing a few of the posh neighborhoods and taking photos from Mount Victoria., took the cable car up and came down to see the botanic gardens. One suggestion is to skip the lunch at the "Chocolate Fish." took way too long to have middling fish sandwiches, and we would have preferred a quicker lunch and more sights, such as Maori historical locations or a brewery.
John gave us an excellent day in Wellington. He was very knowledgeable about the area and gave us great history and background information. He made sure we saw the highlights and took us to a great lunch location - The Chocolate Fish! Highly recommend this tour.
John was fabulous. He's professional, knowledgeable, and very flexible. He drove us to so many wonderful places. He adjusted a few things to make it easier for my 88-year-old mother. Lunch at Chocolate Fish was delicious and the conversation was quite enjoyable. I would go on another tour with this company in a heartbeat.
We had a wonderful day in Wellington with our guide Sam. We experienced beautiful views of the harbor, a drive through downtown, a tour of Weta Workshop, a walk down Cuba street, a cable car ride, and a walk through lovely botanical gardens. I really liked that Sam ate lunch with us, giving us a chance to ask our questions and get to know him better. He personalized the tour for us by pointing out locations used in “Wellington Paranormal,” a TV show we love. It was a full day, informative and fun. Highly recommend this tour company.
This was everything we had hoped for. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and flexible. We got to see everything we wanted to see, plus learned a little about Wellington that we hadn't known. I highly recommend!
We had a wonderful experience on this trip. We covered many areas from the mountain viewpoint to the coastal SW tip of the north island. It was so relaxing and our guide felt like a family member from the onset. We had a lovely day that included a great lunch.
Our guide, John was friendly and knowledgeable and showed us all around the city. Great experience. We really enjoyed it
Andrew provided private tour in Wellington. Lots of knowledge about the city, very personable, excellent service. Thanks
Andrew was a wonderful host to the city he is quite proud of. He took us to every corner of the city. Gave pertinent and at times funny commentary and went above and beyond with his efforts. If you want to see Wellington properly, Andrew is your man!
Sam was great. He listened to our requests. He picked a great place for lunch. Safe thoughtful driver.
We were picked up by our guide exactly when he said he would be there. He was so full of information and interesting stories. We had a lovely lunch chatting about stories and sites of Wellington. He seemed to know what would interest us and took us there He genuinely was interested in making sure we had the best day possible Thank you
We actually booked a tour through another tour company who works with John. John picked us up promptly from our hotel and took us to Mt Victoria to show us the views. His car was extremely comfortable and he knew local Wellington history well. He took us all through Wellington to see Weta Cave, the coast and then back to the cable museum, the gardens and dropped us at Zealandia. Instead of lunch at Chocolate Fish he picked us up some Fish and Chips. He was flexible, personable, flexible and everything we could want in a guide.
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