← Lord of the Rings locations
Aragorn entering the haunted mountain in Return of the King
Paths of the Dead
Putangirua Pinnacles, Wairarapa, New Zealand
Eroded gravel pillars 50 metres high form a surreal canyon — the entrance to the Paths of the Dead. A 3-hour loop track takes you through the pinnacles and to a lookout above.
Plan your visit
What you need to know before you go
- Best time to visit
- Year-round (avoid after heavy rain)
- How to get there
- 1.5 hours' drive from Wellington. Pair with the Cape Palliser lighthouse.
- Suggested stay
- Plan 1–2 days here, or build it into a wider regional trip.
- Good to know
- Bring layers, comfortable shoes, and a camera. Check seasonal opening hours before booking.
