Lauryn Lantela discovers New Zealand’s soul on the North Island

Standing where hobbits once lived

I have been a devoted Lord of the Rings fan for years, and walking onto the Hobbiton Movie Set felt like stepping into a dream I had carried since childhood. It was not only the iconic rolling hills and famous round doorways that struck me—it was the detail. Tiny toothbrushes, carefully arranged belongings and intricately crafted interiors made every Hobbit-hole feel lived in.

The care required to maintain the set is remarkable. Guided tours run throughout the day, and special experiences include evening banquets and private celebrations. At the Green Dragon Inn, guests can relax with a signature drink in one of the trilogy’s most recognizable settings. For fans of the films, it is worth every moment. The photos are incredible, but being there feels even more magical.

Cooking with a legend on sacred ground

The day before Hobbiton, I had an experience so different that it still amazes me these two worlds exist so close together. Former All Black Dion Muir welcomed us into his Cookout Experience and brought us to the coastal land where his ancestors lived and fished for generations.

Dion spoke about the ceremonies, struggles and enduring connection his people have to this place. Back at his home, fresh-caught fish and lobster were waiting. In his outdoor kitchen, using a hāngī he built himself, we learned the traditional method of cooking food beneath the earth with heated stones. Guests can also join him on the water before returning to prepare the catch.

Sitting with Dion, his family and members of the village, sharing stories over food we had prepared together, was hands down the best experience I had in New Zealand.

A deeper understanding of culture

Cultural immersion became the thread connecting the entire trip. During the Te Aranga Moana experience, a local guide took us through a Māori meeting house used for ceremonies and shared traditions surrounding funerals and community life. He then walked us through the Tauranga site of a significant battle for the land, helping us understand what unfolded there.

In Rotorua, the Te Puia Tamaki Harvest celebration added another layer. We tried traditional games, learned hunting skills and discovered how plants from the bush are gathered for medicines and teas. The grand hall came alive with dance, song and storytelling before another hāngī feast.

Even Napier offered a powerful story. An Art Deco Trust walking tour revealed how survivors rebuilt the city after the earthquake and why its distinctive architecture still stands today.

Who should take this journey

My ideal New Zealand travellers are a family of four ready to fly in, rent an RV and spend about three weeks exploring. Free and inexpensive campgrounds can be found across both islands, and some attractions allow overnight stays nearby when you have an experience booked for the following day. A flexible outline gives you direction while still letting you linger in the places you love.

The North Island is generally warmer and more subtropical than the South. It is easy to mix meaningful cultural experiences with adventure—luging at Skyline Rotorua, walking among the Redwoods and racing across the water with Huka Falls Jet.

For shoulder-season travel, particularly November or March and April, direct Air New Zealand flights can offer excellent value, with better rates often available for RVs and activities too.

Give New Zealand the time it deserves

Now that I have experienced both islands, I understand that this journey requires commitment. There are two travel days each way and a meaningful investment in flights and transportation.

I recommend staying longer than two weeks—ideally three—because there is simply too much soul in this country to rush through.