Harcourt Park

Harcourt Park sits on Te Awa Kairangi in Upper Hutt, a 40-minute drive north of Wellington City. This established park gained international recognition as the Gardens of Isengard in The Lord of the Rings, where Gandalf and Saruman walked through manicured gardens. The location continues to attract local and commercial filming for its diverse settings and established infrastructure.

The park offers varied filming environments from formal botanical gardens with rhododendrons and azaleas to native bush areas. Open grass spaces, walking tracks, and the covered outdoor stage provide versatile backdrops. The nearby Hutt River adds water features, while established facilities include power access, toilets, and sheltered areas suitable for base operations.

Vehicle access is via Akatarawa Road with ample parking available at multiple entrances. The park's proximity to other Wellington region filming locations makes it ideal for multi-location shoots. The combination of manicured gardens, native bush, open spaces, and river access provides comprehensive filming options within one accessible location that has proven appeal to both international blockbusters and local commercial productions.