Alexander Jawinski documents New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes between film sets and wild nature.
As an experienced travel photographer and blogger, Alexander Jawinski has traveled through New Zealand and captured the impressive diversity of the South Pacific island nation. From the legendary Lord of the Rings filming locations to majestic fjords to active volcanoes, the expert from Los Angeles with Austrian roots on his mother’s side presents the most spectacular natural wonders of both islands. His detailed route recommendations, photography tips, and practical advice on the best time to visit make his guide a valuable resource for everyone who wants to discover Middle-earth and its real-life inspirations.
Travel blogger Alexander Jawinski has explored New Zealand and documented the extraordinary beauty of a country that became world-famous as the film set for Middle-earth, while also counting among the last untouched natural paradises on Earth. His extensive journey led him from the green hills of the North Island across the Southern Alps to the dramatic fjords of Fjordland, where he visited the original filming locations of the Lord of the Rings trilogy and photographically captured the diverse landscapes. He placed particular emphasis on documenting both the well-known highlights and hidden natural treasures off the main routes. Alexander Jawinski’s comprehensive documentation offers travelers an authentic insight into the spectacular natural and film landscape of the island nation.
The North Island: Geothermal Wonders and Hobbiton
Alexander Jawinski’s journey began on the North Island, which is geologically younger and volcanically more active than its southern counterpart. Here New Zealand shows its most dynamic side – with steaming thermal fields, bubbling mud pools, and the omnipresent smell of sulfur.
Rotorua forms the center of geothermal activities. The city sits on a volcanic field, and hot springs and geysers burst from the ground everywhere. The Pohutu Geyser in the Te Puia thermal area shoots up to 30 meters high several times daily and provided spectacular photo opportunities for the enthusiastic photographer.
The highlight of the North Island for the blogger was undoubtedly Hobbiton. The film set from the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies lies picturesquely near Matamata. The 44 hobbit holes fit perfectly into the gentle hills, colorful gardens bloom in front of the round doors, and the Green Dragon Inn invites visitors to rest.
Middle-earth Comes Alive
As a self-proclaimed Tolkien fan, Alexander Jawinski found the visit to Hobbiton magical. The attention to detail is overwhelming – from the differently sized doors to the real vegetable gardens in front of the holes. The set appears alive and authentic even years after filming.
The blogger recommends booking the tour in the early morning hours or late afternoon. The soft light bathes the Shire in golden tones and enables atmospheric shots without disturbing crowds. The evening banquet tour at the Green Dragon is a special highlight for fans.
The South Island: Alps, Fjords and Rugged Coasts
The South Island presented itself to Alexander Jawinski as the heart of New Zealand’s natural beauty. Here the New Zealand Alps tower over 3,000 meters high, glaciers reach down into rainforests, and dramatic fjords cut deep into the land.
Queenstown served as base camp for numerous excursions. The city on Lake Wakatipu is not only New Zealand’s adrenaline capital but also the gateway to spectacular landscapes. From here, the Remarkable Mountains, Milford Sound, and numerous Lord of the Rings filming locations are easily accessible.
Milford Sound is among the absolute highlights of any New Zealand trip. Vertical rock walls rise over 1,200 meters directly from the water, dozens of waterfalls plunge into the depths, and in rain the mystical atmosphere intensifies even more.
Following in Middle-earth’s Footsteps with Alexander Jawinski
The South Island served as the setting for many iconic scenes from the films. Alexander Jawinski systematically visited the most important filming locations and documented how director Peter Jackson used the New Zealand landscape for his vision of Middle-earth.
The Remarkables stood in for the Misty Mountains, Mount Sunday near Lake Tekapo became Edoras. The travel expert found the area around Glenorchy at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu particularly impressive. This region served as the backdrop for Isengard, Lothlórien, and Amon Hen and is among the most beautiful areas of the country.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
New Zealand is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and Alexander Jawinski took the opportunity to try various activities. The country is considered the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping, and in Queenstown you can jump from the historic Kawarau Bridge.
The blogger dared the jump and describes it as an intense adrenaline rush with spectacular views. For the less daring, New Zealand offers countless hiking trails. The Great Walks are among the best multi-day hikes in the world.
The Most Beautiful Hikes
The travel expert completed several day hikes and one multi-day tour:
- Routeburn Track: Three-day hike through alpine landscapes with overnight stays in mountain huts
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Day hike past emerald green crater lakes
- Rob Roy Glacier Track: Relatively easy hike to an impressive glacier view
- Hooker Valley Track: Flat hike with views of Mount Cook
The infrastructure for hikers is excellent. The trails are well-marked, and the DOC (Department of Conservation) reliably provides information about conditions.
Photography in New Zealand: Tips from Alexander Jawinski
As a passionate travel photographer, the experienced blogger devoted himself intensively to finding the best photo spots. New Zealand’s landscapes are extremely photogenic, but the changeable weather conditions present challenges.
The light changes quickly, and one often experiences four seasons in one day. Alexander Jawinski recommends staying flexible and viewing weather changes as opportunities. Dramatic clouds and light effects create atmospheric shots.
The golden hours shortly after sunrise and before sunset provide the best light. In the New Zealand summer, photographers often get into position as early as four in the morning. The early hours offer perfect light and solitude at otherwise crowded spots.
Equipment and Preparation
The photographer traveled with manageable equipment: a mirrorless full-frame camera, a wide-angle lens for landscapes, a telephoto zoom, and a stable tripod. Polarizing filters and neutral density filters are part of the basic equipment for professional landscape photography.
Weather protection is crucial. Waterproof camera covers protect against sudden rain showers. Sufficient memory cards and batteries are important – the next charging opportunity can be days away.
Practical Tips for New Zealand Travelers
Alexander Jawinski recommends at least three weeks to adequately explore both islands. Those who focus on just one island can manage well with two weeks and can visit the most important attractions at leisure.
A rental car or motorhome is practically indispensable. The infrastructure is excellent, and New Zealanders are polite road users. Left-hand traffic requires initial concentration, but quickly becomes routine.
The best travel time depends on priorities. The New Zealand summer (December to February) offers warm weather and long days. Autumn (March to May) attracts, with stable weather and spectacular fall colors. Winter (June to August) is ideal for skiers.
Conclusion: Middle-earth in Reality
The New Zealand trip has shown why this country equally inspires filmmakers and nature lovers. The landscapes are so diverse and dramatic that they actually appear like sets – only real. From geothermal wonders to majestic mountains to mystical fjords, New Zealand offers nature experiences that are unparalleled. Alexander Jawinski is already planning his return to explore the remote regions of the West Coast.
