Beaches, Mountains, Forests, Caves... Today you will cross Cook Strait by ferry and arrive in the region of Elves, Marlborough. This is where the Ring carriers left for the most dangerous leg of their journey. It is also known as New Zealand’s home of Sauvignon Blanc. Past Motueka and Blenheim, you will arrive at Marahau near the exotic Abel Tasman National Park. On your way, try the Beer of the Hobbits near Nelson at Harrington’s Brewery. Its alcohol content is only 0.1%, made especially for the movie. Watch the Blacksmiths in Nelson who produced the original ring or take a photo with the horse of the Elves. From Marahau you can make excursions to some of the beautiful golden beaches nearby for a swim or sunbathe. There is a walk you can take through the Chetwood Forest, where Aragorn guided the companions into wilderness. Climb up Takaka Hill to hike to Harward’s Hole, a sinkhole, which is 176m deep, and 15m wide. Helicopter trips are available from Nelson to Dimril Dale, Mt Owen, where the fellowship escape the Caves of Moria and mourn Gandalf’s death. Info: Forty different rings were made for the film, in many different sizes, by a blacksmith in Nelson. Unfortunately though, the creator died before he got to see his work on film. His two enthusiastic sons carry on the business.   Tip/Hint: Visit the spectacular remote locations of Mt Olympus and Mt Owen with Nelson Helicopters. The magnificent forests and mountains of Takaka and the lush bush of Abel Tasman National Park are a stone’s throw away.

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