New Zealand · WORKSHOPS
This is the shortlist to send a friend: 13 workshop experiences worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the one thing to know before you commit.
Wellington’s 90-minute Wētā Workshop guided tour. See film props and costumes made, meet artists, and learn the tricks behind the effects.
“My daughter’s eyes lit up like a kid in a candy store The guide was very good and it was interesting doing a bit of aluminium sculpturing”
Hands-on movie magic at SkyCity. Meet Wētā creatures, robots, and effects with a lively guide. 90 minutes, $40.34.
“Had a fabulous time. Cat was a great tour leader. Definitely recommend to everyone. Would definitely go again.”
Guided Wētā Workshop tour in Wellington. See how props, creatures and costumes are made, with hands-on moments. Includes admission. 1.5 hours.
“A very joyful experience, clearly very passionate people doing what they love and it was great having Mack as our guide!”
Auckland’s Wētā Workshop Unleashed guided tour is a 90-minute hands-on look at practical effects, with three genre worlds and photo time.
“it was really fun being an intern and helping with the new movies. Loved all the behind the scenes sets and the hands on activities.”
Learn to surf at Te Arai Beach, Auckland. Small-group 2-hour lesson with gear and sunscreen included, plus safety and popup coaching.
“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!”
Beginner group surf lesson in Raglan, NZ. 2 hours at Ngarunui Beach with wetsuit, board, and coaching for $56 per person.
“The instructors were great. Patient and helpful. Highly recommend this company and experience.”
Hands-on Wētā Workshop Unleashed classes in Auckland, choose world building or scars makeup, get materials and a Certificate of Creativity.
“Awesome. Our guide was very knowledgeable about all things wear. Great displays and touchables. Loved every minute. Would recommend to any movie buff and LOTR fans”
A beginner-friendly 2-hour surf lesson at Muriwai Beach near Auckland, with small group coaching, safety guidance, and all equipment included.
“It’s like riding a bicycle. People can only show you how. You need to figure it out”
Learn to surf at Mount Maunganui Beach in 90 minutes, with board and wetsuit included, patient coaching, and first-wave confidence.
“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 at Driving Creek Pottery in Coromandel, New Zealand. 90 minutes, guided by a pro, clay tools apron included.
“rigtig god, god instruktør, god hjælp, gode muligheder, lidt dyrt hvis man er international og vil ha tingene med hjem”
Beginner surf lesson at Te Arai near Omaha, Auckland. Small groups, tide-timed coaching, wetsuits and boards, plus first-wave photos.
“I joined the girls on curls lessons with Lydia. I learnt a lot, really enjoyed it and progressed in my surfing skills. Highly recommend, I was nervous at first but had such a great time, friendly atmosphere, very targeted instruction and good equipment. Can't wait to go back.”
Raglan 2-day surf package: a 2-hour lesson then equipment rental at Ngarunui Beach. Small group, gear included, $74 per person.
“2ème jour conditions météo non favorable au surf (absence de vagues)”
Business-class Milford Sound day trip from Queenstown with Mercedes comfort, a 2-hour MV Sinbad cruise, and a five-course chef menu.
“It was fantastic! Chase was a phenomenal guide, the sights were amazing, and the stops and cruise were awesome.”
From the fiords to the geothermal belt, sorted by what you want to do with the day.
