The Hobbit · Filming location
Tūroa (Mount Ruapehu)
In the story · The Desolation of Smaug (the secret door)
The bare volcanic slopes became Hidden Bay, the ledge where the dwarves find the secret door into the Lonely Mountain.
Where to stay nearby
Book a hotel hereMap with prices from several sites
or on Booking.com- With this place
- Day by day
- Free
Are you here?
More to do here
Things to doParis: all activities on GetYourGuide
The link opens the destination's catalogue, not a tour made for the story →
GetYourGuide · affiliate link
Famous places nearby
Not places of the story, but worth seeing in the area.
Whakapapa Village
11.6 kmThe park's alpine village, with a visitor centre and short walks such as the Silica Rapids.
Hapuawhenua Viaduct (Old Coach Road)
14.2 kmWalk across the old railway viaduct on the Old Coach Road, next to the newer one.
Ohakune
16.8 kmA small ski town with cafés, a giant carrot statue and a historic railway station.
Where to stand for the photo
From the top car park, frame the grey rock and snow with nothing modern in sight.
Getting there
- Address: Ohakune Mountain Road, Tūroa, Mount Ruapehu
- Transport
- By car, about 4 hours from Wellington.
- Access
- Public road to a ski area: snow in winter, walking in summer.
Public sources (2)
Sources found on October 21, 2026.
Every place checked against public sources
Production · film commissions · tourist boards · guides
We always say if it is:
- The real filming location
- A place standing in for it
- Inspired by the story
Every place checked against public sources
Production · film commissions · tourist boards · guides
We always say if it is:
- The real filming location
- A place standing in for it
- Inspired by the story
Every place checked against public sources
Production · film commissions · tourist boards · guides
We always say if it is:
- The real filming location
- A place standing in for it
- Inspired by the story