Weta Cave Workshop Tour

About | Weta Cave

Step inside Weta Cave and get a glimpse of the movie magic behind the award-winning team at Weta Workshop, which is named after New Zealand’s largest insect, the weta. They’ve had a part of big films like The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, District 9 and The Amazing Spiderman 2 but did you know that they’ve also been a part of more than 100 films and TV shows and this number is constantly growing.

Weta Workshop has been a part of making films since 1987 where it first started out in just a small flat but has now grown into something much bigger. Kids will love to know that they’ve been a part of movies such as Tin Tin, Mulan, The BFG, The Water Horse, Narnia, The Wot Wots and Thunderbirds!

You’ll be taken through several rooms kitted out with props, costumes and creatures that have been created for several films, a lot of what may look very familiar to you, starring in major films. There’s one room where you’ll actually be allowed to touch all of the cool and creative items, something the kids will really enjoy. And then move along to the next part to see an artist at work on the tour stage.

Weta Workshop offers several tours ranging from a short 45 minutes to 4 hours. They also offer hands-on workshops where you get to have a play around with sculpting, SFX make-up or leather & chainmaille. These tours are for those aged 14 and up.

Even if you don’t join one of the tour groups, you can still come and browse the Weta Cave Shop, pose with Gandalf the Grey and three huge orcs and watch a 30 minute behind the scenes ??? film.

When you arrive at the Weta Workshop entrance you’ll be greeted by giant trolls, make sure you stop and take a photo because you won’t be allowed to take photos on your tour. Step inside and explore the Weta Cave Shop full with amazing sculptures handcrafted by Weta artists, t-shirts, books and other movie memorabilia and keepsakes. The sculptures and props are beautifully made and take you right back to a part in the movie, also check out the pair of hairy hobbit feet on display while you’re there!

Give yourself enough time to find parking along the street, as there is no dedicated parking and spacing is limited and can fill up fast. Then make your way to the Weta Cave store where you will start your tour.

Where else can you see Weta Workshops stuff? If you’ve gone through the Wellington airport, you may have seen some already at the check in area and departures lounge. You’ll also find amazing 2.5 times life-size figures at the Gallipoli exhibition at Te Papa.

Good to know: Photography is not allowed in most of the tour.

Book early: Tours can book out fast so book early to secure your spot. This is especially so during peak season, from October through to April. Book at least a day in advance, or three days during school holidays.

What age is this suitable for? Suitable for all ages but more suited for those aged 6 and up. Kids will be standing and listening as the tour guide talks and it may be tough for wriggly worms who just wanna run wild. But if kids have a keen interest in the movies that Weta have helped make or in prop making, this is something that they would definitely enjoy!