New Zealand has one of the most gorgeous landscapes in the world, with everything from towering mountains and rolling green hills to rocky coastlines and dense forests. Over the years, filmmakers have taken advantage of the country’s natural beauty. They’ve created fantasy worlds, thrilling adventure stories, and emotional tales. These movies show exactly why New Zealand is such a special filming location.
1. The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001–2003)
No production is as closely tied to New Zealand as The Lord of the Rings. Director Peter Jackson thought the country’s mountains, forests, and valleys were the perfect location for the fictional and enchanting world of Middle-earth. Jackson included a large range of New Zealand landscapes in the films. Tongariro National Park provided some of the most recognizable Mordor scenery. Specifically, Mount Ngauruhoe was used as the basis for Mount Doom. Other parts of the country became everything from peaceful villages to dangerous wilderness. The movie truly put the country on the map for the average moviegoer. It turned New Zealand into a dream destination.
2. The Hobbit Trilogy (2012–2014)
Like The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit trilogy includes shots of New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery. The films brought audiences back to familiar Lord of the Rings locations, but they also introduced new areas with mountains, rivers, and forests. It perfectly captured the cozy world of the Shire. The Hobbiton set near Matamata still stands and has since become one of the country’s biggest tourist attractions. The wild beauty of New Zealand is one of the biggest stars of this trilogy.
3. The Piano (1993)
Set in 19th-century New Zealand, The Piano tells the story of a mute woman who travels to the country for an arranged marriage. She brings her daughter and her prized piano. The film uses the wild beaches and forests of Auckland’s west coast to help build an emotional atmosphere. The landscape almost acts as another character, mirroring the isolation and drama of the story. It is one of the most highly regarded movies made in the country.
4. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
Hunt for the Wilderpeople is a funny and heartfelt adventure through the New Zealand wilderness. The story is about a rebellious young boy and the gruff older man he reluctantly ends up traveling with. For various reasons, the two end up becoming the target of a nationwide manhunt. As they navigate the wild terrain, audiences get to see the country’s forests, mountains, and remote regions. The movie does a great job of capturing the beauty of rural New Zealand. It is also warm and filled with humor.
5. Whale Rider (2002)
Whale Rider is about the traditions and culture of New Zealand’s Indigenous Māori people. The story is told through the perspective of a young girl who dreams of becoming leader, though this position is traditionally taken by a male. Set in New Zealand’s eastern Whangara region, the film details the importance of family, heritage, and connection to the land. The movie is worth watching for its beautiful views alone. It is full of shots of the ocean and small coastal communities. The powerful story introduced audiences to Māori culture.
6. King Kong (2005)
Although the story itself takes place in multiple locations, Peter Jackson’s King Kong was shot extensively in New Zealand. When Jackson was searching for a landscape to act as the mysterious world of Skull Island, he knew he needn’t look beyond New Zealand. The country’s locations helped create both the wild Skull Island and other parts of the movie’s world, with the help of elaborate sets and visual effects. The movie uses the country’s landscapes in and around the Wellington region, with Wellington itself acting as an important production hub.
7. The Last Samurai (2003)
While The Last Samurai is set in Japan, audiences don’t realize that a lot of the film was shot in New Zealand. The country’s mountains, forests, and open areas recreated the look of 19th-century Japan. Even though it is an entirely different country than Japan, it ended up being the perfect scenery for the large-scale battles and emotional story. Mount Taranaki and the surrounding countryside were integral because the mountain’s volcanic shape made for a convincing Mount Fuji. The lush farmland and mountain views added to the movie’s beautiful historical setting. It is just one more solid example of how versatile New Zealand’s landscapes can be on screen.
8. The World’s Fastest Indian (2005)
The World’s Fastest Indian tells the true story of one of New Zealand’s legendary citizens. It follows motorcycle enthusiast Burt Munro on his journey to America to compete with his record-breaking bike. Unlike Peter Jackson’s movies, this one depicts everyday New Zealand life instead of fantasy lands. Audiences get a glimpse at small towns, open roads, and the country’s unique character. The early scenes show Munro’s life in Invercargill before he sets off for the United States. The film is ultimately about determination and chasing dreams no matter your age or circumstances.