Christchurch to Edoras: Lord of the Rings Day Trip & Picnic

Summary

Walk Rohan’s hills, hold Aragorn’s sword, picnic in wild Canterbury

You’ll step onto Mount Sunday where Edoras stood, hold replica swords from Lord of the Rings, and enjoy a picnic lunch with local sparkling wine. Your guide shares stories as you explore wild Canterbury landscapes before returning to Christchurch — expect laughter, quiet moments, and more than one photo worth keeping.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I booked the Edoras day trip from Christchurch mostly for my inner nerd. But standing out there on Mount Sunday, wind tugging at my jacket and sheep wandering somewhere below, it hit me how quiet it was. Our guide, Mike, had this way of telling stories that made you forget you were just a visitor — he even handed me Aragorn’s sword (heavier than I thought), and I tried not to look too giddy for the photos. The drive out was long but never dull; we stopped at Lake Clearwater where the sky felt huge and blue, and I remember someone joking about how even the clouds looked like they belonged in Middle-earth.

The walk up Mount Sunday wasn’t hard but my boots were definitely grateful for dry weather — it gets muddy if it rains. Mike showed us behind-the-scenes photos from when they built Edoras here; I didn’t expect to care about set construction but seeing those images with the real landscape right there… kind of surreal. There was this moment when everyone went quiet, just looking out over those endless hills. It smelled like grass and cold air. I still think about that view sometimes when work gets loud.

Lunch was a proper spread — sandwiches, fruit, something sweet, plus a glass of New Zealand sparkling wine that tasted extra sharp after the hike. We sat on blankets near another lookout spot (can’t remember its name), swapping favorite movie lines and trying not to spill our drinks every time someone laughed too hard. Li from our group tried to pronounce “Edoras” in perfect Rohirric; Mike said he’d give her points for effort. On the way back to Christchurch, most people dozed off or watched the scenery roll by — those soft brown hills fading into late afternoon light. So yeah, if you’re thinking about a Lord of the Rings day trip from Christchurch, just go for it. Even if you’re only half a fan.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lord of the Rings Edoras Day Tour

• Depart Canterbury Museum entrance
• Stop at Mount Somers Hall toilets
• Photo opportunity at Lake Clearwater
• Explore Mount Sunday Edoras site
• Picnic lunch at scenic location

Top questions

How long is the Lord of the Rings Edoras day trip from Christchurch?

The tour lasts approximately 9 hours including travel time.

Is hotel pickup included in this Edoras tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

What should I wear for Mount Sunday/Edoras?

Wear good footwear and bring a warm jacket as weather can change quickly.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Yes, a picnic lunch with New Zealand sparkling wine is included.

Are there toilet stops during the journey?

Yes, there are toilet stops at Mount Somers Hall and at lunch.

Can children join this Lord of the Rings tour?

The tour is not recommended for children aged 4 and under.

Do we get to hold any movie props on this day trip?

Yes, you can pose with replicas like Aragorn’s sword and Gimli’s axe.

Is public transportation available nearby for this tour?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the meeting point.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Christchurch, all transport out to Mount Sunday (Edoras), live commentary from your guide who brings behind-the-scenes stories alive, plenty of chances for photos with movie prop replicas like Aragorn’s sword or Gimli’s axe, plus a picnic lunch with New Zealand sparkling wine before heading back in the evening.