For train bookings beyond June 2025 to June 2026, contact us at info@newzealandtravelteam.com.
An Immersive Rail Experience
We have some exciting news for your upcoming journey, we have made changes to our onboard audio commentary which is now available via our new infotainment app.
The infotainment app allows all audio commentary and stories to be available at a touch of a button via your phone.
Our commentary has been upgraded and revised and we are excited to have it available for our passengers.
The app is easy to use, and if you have any issues, please talk to the staff on the train, they will help you to troubleshoot any issues.
Please make sure you bring your own device, USB charger and headphones to enjoy the audio commentary.
We recommend you download the free “Great Journeys New Zealand” app in advance.
Some sections of the app won’t be available until you are on the train, but once connected to the Wifi on the train you’ll will be able to see the full content.
Discover the real Middle-earth with a guided tour of the Hobbiton movie set, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies.
Highlights:
Guided tour of The Shire film set at Hobbiton
See Hobbit holes, The Green Dragon Inn, the Mill, the Party Tree and much more
Explore the rural township of Matamata
Travel to Matamata, a quintessentially rural Kiwi town in the Waikato region of the North Island, well-known for its thoroughbred industry and dairy farming. Nearby, hidden in picturesque private farmland with spectacular views of the Kaimai Ranges, is the famous Hobbiton movie set, where Sir Peter Jackson filmed his award-winning 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' movies.
The charming countryside of The Shire, as described in JRR Tolkien's books, was painstakingly recreated on a working sheep and beef farm. The home of plucky little hobbits like Bilbo, Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin has been preserved since filming wrapped, and now draws visitors from around the world.
Visit Hobbiton and see where the movie magic was created with a guided tour. You'll get the chance to see Hobbit holes, the Mill, the Green Dragon Inn and many other structures created for the films, and learn how farmland was transformed into a living, breathing piece of Middle-earth.
Please note that coach travel is onboard our scheduled InterCity services and does not include commentary.
