8 films to watch before you travel to New Zealand
New Zealand’s striking landscapes have inspired filmmakers for decades, from deep blue lakes and glaciers to rainforests and rolling hills. Best known as the backdrop for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, it has also starred in Narnia and King Kong. These films are perfect pre-trip viewing before your own New Zealand adventure.
Top films to watch before your New Zealand holiday
1. Whale Riders (2002)
Whale Rider is a moving modern fairy tale and a wonderful introduction to Māori culture. Set in Whangara on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, it follows 12-year-old Pai, whose family descends from the legendary chief Paikea, said to have arrived in New Zealand on the back of a whale.
Tradition says leadership must pass to the firstborn son, but Pai believes she is destined to lead. With the support of her grandmother and uncle, she sets out to prove herself to her conservative grandfather, Koro. Alongside its powerful story, the film beautifully captures the culture, history and coastal landscapes of the North Island.
2. Boy (2010)
Boy, directed by Taika Waititi, is a funny, heartfelt and bittersweet look at childhood, family and Māori life in rural New Zealand. Set in Waihau Bay, in the East Cape area, it follows 11-year-old Boy and his younger brother Rocky, who live with their grandmother after losing their mother and growing up without their father.
When their father unexpectedly returns, Boy is thrilled to see the man he has idolised for years. But reality soon proves more complicated. Blending humour with tenderness, the film touches on poverty, alcohol abuse and family trauma, while still finding warmth, imagination and plenty of classic Waititi charm.
3. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
Hunt for the Wilderpeople is another essential New Zealand watch. Directed by Taika Waititi, it follows Ricky Baker, a rebellious foster child who is sent to live on a remote farm with warm-hearted Bella and her gruff husband, Hec.
When tragedy strikes and child welfare services threaten to take Ricky away, he escapes into the New Zealand wilderness, with Hec reluctantly following. Their disappearance sparks a national manhunt, but along the way this unlikely pair forms a touching bond. Funny, moving and full of wild landscapes, it’s a brilliant mix of adventure, humour and heart.
4. Bride Flight (2008)
Bride Flight follows three young Dutch women, Ada, Marjorie and Esther, as they travel to New Zealand in search of a new beginning. They meet during the famous 1953 London to Christchurch air race, unaware that this chance encounter will connect them for the rest of their lives.
Alongside its sweeping story of love, ambition and reinvention, the film showcases beautiful scenes of Christchurch, the Waimakariri River, Queenstown and Central Otago, the kind of scenery that has you mentally packing your bags before the credits roll.
5. Lord of the Rings (2001 -2003)
The Lord of the Rings trilogy, based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s novels and directed by Peter Jackson, was filmed entirely in New Zealand across more than 150 locations. From the North Island to the South Island, the country’s dramatic mountains, forests and open landscapes brought Middle-earth vividly to life.
Fans can visit many of the filming locations, including Hobbiton in Matamata, as well as several free-to-access spots across the country. The Otago region is especially rich in Middle-earth scenery, making it a brilliant addition to a New Zealand itinerary.
6. The Piano (1993)
The Piano is a haunting period drama set in mid-19th-century New Zealand. It follows Ada, a mute Scottish woman who arrives with her young daughter, Flora, and her treasured piano for an arranged marriage to wealthy frontiersman Alisdair.
Ada has not spoken since childhood, expressing herself through music instead. When Alisdair refuses to bring her piano home and leaves it stranded on the beach, tensions begin to unfold. Powerful, atmospheric and beautifully acted, the film won Holly Hunter an Academy Award for her unforgettable performance.
7. Chasing Great (2016)
As well as dramatic landscapes, New Zealand is famous for its legendary rugby team, the All Blacks. Chasing Great follows Richie McCaw, one of the sport’s most successful players, during his final year as captain.
Filmed with remarkable behind-the-scenes access, the documentary captures the pressure, discipline and determination behind his career, including his last days leading the All Blacks. It’s a must-watch for sports fans and a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand’s rugby culture.
8. New Zealand - A Voyage of Discovery (2018)
Travel photographers and filmmakers Petra and Gerhard Zwerger-Schoner spent six months journeying through New Zealand, capturing its landscapes, light and atmosphere from north to south.
Travelling by campervan, off-road vehicle, plane, helicopter, canoe and on foot, they created a visually stunning road movie through untouched nature, vast open spaces and Māori culture. With rare wildlife, dreamlike scenery and warm encounters along the way, it’s an inspiring watch for anyone planning a New Zealand adventure.
Whether you’re drawn to epic fantasy, heartfelt family stories, powerful drama or sporting legends, these films offer a wonderful introduction to New Zealand before you travel. Together, they reveal the country’s dramatic landscapes, rich Māori culture, warm humour and adventurous spirit – the perfect way to begin your journey.
