Last updated June 2026
Weta Workshop is a world-renowned special effects and props studio in Wellington, responsible for creatures, armour, weapons and prosthetics in major productions including The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar and Planet of the Apes. The facility at 1 Weka Street in Miramar offers guided behind-the-scenes tours that take visitors through working studio areas past production-used props and models. Tours last 90 minutes and are led by knowledgeable guides, often current or former staff. The experience concludes in the Weta Cave shop with exclusive collectibles and replicas. It remains one of Wellington’s signature visitor attractions tied to the city’s film industry.
Practical Information
| Location | 1 Weka Street, Miramar, Wellington 6022 |
| Tour length | 90 minutes guided |
| Hours | Open daily except Christmas Day; check wetaworkshop.com for session times |
| Booking | Book online at wetaworkshop.com; advance booking strongly recommended |
| Price | Check current pricing at wetaworkshop.com (varies by season and options) |
| Getting there | 10-20 minute drive from Wellington CBD; Bus 2 from Courtenay Place to Miramar |
About Weta Workshop
Weta Workshop specialises in concept design and physical effects for film, television and immersive experiences. Founded in 1987, the studio is based in Miramar and has contributed to dozens of international productions through practical effects, miniatures, prosthetics and armour.
The 90-minute guided tour moves through the Weta Cave display area and into working studio spaces. Visitors see original props, costumes, creature moulds, scale miniatures and explanations of techniques used for screen productions. Displays change as new work is completed.
Guides provide detailed context on the craftsmanship and processes. The tour ends in the on-site shop stocking production-based collectibles, artwork and replica props available only at this location.
The Tour Experience
Tours run at scheduled times and cover highlights such as suits of armour and weapons from The Lord of the Rings, prosthetics from recent films, and demonstrations of practical effects methods. No photography is permitted inside the working areas.
The experience suits a wide range of ages, though very young children may find the walking and waiting periods lengthy. Group and private tour options are available.
Miramar — Wellington’s Film Suburb
Miramar serves as the hub of New Zealand’s screen production industry. Nearby facilities include Weta Digital for visual effects, Stone Street Studios sound stages and Park Road Post Production. The suburb offers cafes, restaurants and accommodation that support film crews and visitors.
A short walk from the workshop reaches viewpoints on the Miramar Peninsula overlooking Wellington Harbour and the airport runway. The area combines industrial film facilities with suburban residential streets.
What Visitors Often Say
Guides share genuine insider knowledge about props and techniques, making the tour feel authentic and informative. Seeing real production armour and models up close creates strong connections to favourite films.
The shop offers unique items not found elsewhere, and many appreciate the compact yet detailed format that works well as part of a half-day visit to Miramar.
Where to Learn More
Weta Workshop official site: Current tour times, pricing, booking and plan-your-visit details.
WellingtonNZ Weta Workshop page: Visitor information and context on Wellington’s film industry.
Plan your visit page: Directions, parking and accessibility information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Weta Workshop?
1 Weka Street, Miramar, Wellington 6022, about 10-20 minutes by car from the Wellington CBD. Bus 2 runs from Courtenay Place.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended as tours run at set times and fill quickly, especially in peak season.
How long is the tour?
90 minutes. Tours operate daily except Christmas Day; check the current timetable online.
What productions are featured?
The tour covers Weta Workshop’s work across The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avatar, Planet of the Apes and many others. Displays update with new productions.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes for children interested in film-making or fantasy productions. The tour involves walking through studio spaces; very young children may find the length challenging.
Is there a shop?
Yes, the tour finishes in the Weta Cave shop with production-based collectibles, artwork and replica props, many exclusive to the location.
Are photos allowed?
No photography is permitted inside the working areas during the tour.
Is parking available?
Free parking is available near the facility.
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