Port Waikato
Weathertop
Weathertop, the ancient watchtower where Frodo faced the Black Riders, is a blend of natural landscape and studio work. While scenes with Aragorn guiding the Hobbits to the hill's base were shot on private land, similar vistas can be found near Port Waikato, a two-hour drive from Auckland. To get to Amon Sil, start by leaving Auckland via the Southern Motorway to Pukekohe, a town surrounded by fertile land that produces some of New Zealand's finest potatoes and vegetables. Continue through Tuakau, cross the mighty Waikato River, and travel another 30 km to reach the charming seaside village of Port Waikato, where the river meets the sea after a journey of over 350 km from Lake Taupo in the North Island's center. This area is a favored holiday spot for many Aucklanders seeking a break for swimming and fishing. Moving past the holiday homes, follow the sole unpaved road south for around 10 km, immersing yourself in a landscape reminiscent of the Weather Hills in Eregion. The road winds through a lush valley with grass and streams, surrounded by towering limestone faces and bluffs that resemble those of the Weather Hills. Numerous spots are ideal for a picnic lunch, allowing you to relish this very Middle-earth ambiance. If Hobbiton is in your travel plans, you can stay on this road to reach Hamilton and then Matamata, a journey taking about 3 hours. Amon Sûl, also known as The Hill of Winds in Sindarin, was constructed on Weathertop Hill during the Third Age by Elendil. The watchtower held a palantir until 1409 (TA) when it was attacked by the Witch-king of Angmar's massive army. Although the palantir was rescued, the tower was abandoned and fell into ruins.