New Zealand · WORKSHOPS
16 reviewed
Of the 16 workshops on this site, these 15 are the ones to book. Prices, running times and the thing that actually separates them sit below, so you can decide in five minutes and get back to the map.
Wellington’s Weta Workshop guided tour at Weta Cave. See props, costumes, and special effects, plus an artist demo in 90 minutes.
“Flynn did a fabulous job. He made things come to life even more than they do on their own. Amazing place, you can tell everyone who works there loves their job.”
Wētā Workshop Unleashed is a 90-minute hands-on practical effects tour in Auckland, with a small group feel and family fun.
“My goodness this excursion was so much fun! My kids loved it and there were so many things to see and learn about. Would absolutely do it again!”
A guided 90-minute behind-the-scenes look at Wētā Workshop in Wellington, with hands-on props and a studio-stage live-making vibe.
“Brilliant tour. Amazing to see the phenomenal detail that is put into all the items on display. Guide very good, answers any questions you may have.”
Wētā Workshop Unleashed in Auckland is a 90-minute hands-on tour at SkyCity with 3 practical movie scenes and translation via QR.
“Went here in April 2025 with a friend (in our 30's). We both thought it was great and cool to learn about the company that has made so many movies (LOTR being one of our favourites). We just wish they provided us with more information about how they did some of the work for those movies. A lot was wandering around with free time to see the 3 "movie" set ups, which was neat, but kinda wanted more learning. Definitely more entertaining for a child (lots of small activities for them and you can touch everything!). Wouldn't say it was a must do but was decent enough for the hour…”
Take a dedicated shuttle from central Wellington to Wētā Workshop in Miramar for a 3-hour guided tour of props, creatures, costumes, plus return ride.
“What a fascinating experience. I would definitely recommend this trip. Our bus driver was great and had some interesting information. The Wētā workshop was amazing with lots to see and experience.”
Learn to surf at Te Arai Beach with Aotearoa Surf School. Small-group coaching, all gear included, and clear tips for your first stands.
“We booked four days of private lessons with Maya and couldn’t have asked for a better instructor. She handled different levels with ease — from beginner to intermediate — and was wonderful with our 7-year-old daughter who was just starting. Thanks to her great advice and sharp eye, we all got up and caught waves. Big thanks to Maya!”
Wellington return shuttle plus Wētā Workshop tour and quick Wētā Cave stop, all in a 3-hour small-group experience for film fans.
“Jess was our guide and really interesting to listen to for both weta workshops and especially in Thunderbirds. Was shocked at how many block busters filmed at Weta. Documentry was awesome- if I lived closer I would love to work here. Great experience- thank you. Have to watch movies again now”
Raglan beginner group surf lesson at Ngarunui Beach, 2 hours, 6 max, wetsuit and board included, $56 per person.
“Our instructor has been really nice and patient with all of us, guiding us through the steps and giving us a lit of tips. Thanks to him I was able to stand a bit on the board, cheers!”
Hands-on creative workshops at Wētā Workshop Unleashed in Auckland, choose world building or scars, with materials, coaching, and a certificate.
“Fantastic tour, very informative. Very knowledgeable guide. Very impressed with Weta group and their achievements, some very clever and imaginative people. Only down side is that the shop was not open at the end of the tour.”
Learn to surf at Auckland’s Muriwai Beach. A small group intro lesson with board and wetsuit included for $41, in 2 hours.
“It’s like riding a bicycle. People can only show you how. You need to figure it out”
Business Class Milford Sound from Queenstown: 15-seat Mercedes, Te Anau high-tea, Sinbad 2-hour cruise with gourmet lunch.
“Our tour guide/ driver, Stuart, was great. Very energetic and informative. The cruise also exceeded expectations. It was a class A experience from beginning to end.”
Axe throwing in Wellington with coached targets, mini-tournament games, and a games bar hangout at Sweet Axe. Small groups, 1 hour.
“What a unique and cool experience! Our guide was fantastic, made our time at Wellington Sweet Axe fun and enjoyable . Would highly recommend going with a group, can’t wait to go back and give the new smash room a go!”
Learn to surf at Mount Maunganui Beach with a 90-minute beginner group lesson, boards and wetsuits included, for $47.
“Bailey was awesome, he helped me out throughout the whole process to catch my first waves while giving pointers along the way! Will be back again tomorrow”
Learn wheel throwing in Coromandel at Driving Creek Pottery. Pro guidance, NZ clay, and aprons included, plus optional glaze and delivery.
“rigtig god, god instruktør, god hjælp, gode muligheder, lidt dyrt hvis man er international og vil ha tingene med hjem”
Private mountain bike coaching in Queenstown at 7 Mile Bike Park, full-suspension rental, and Lake Wakatipu views.
“Whole experience was great. It was my first time mountain biking and James was incredibly knowledgeable in all the mechanics / lessons and could explain them in different ways to make sure I had the best understanding possible. Would definitely recommend for anyone remotely interested in mountain biking.”
