Putangirua Pinnacles

Whangaimoana and the Putangirua Pinnacles, in the far south-east of New Zealand’s North Island, make a marvellous day out from Wellington. And if they look like a scene from Lord of the Rings, well yes - they were part of the set that Peter Jackson used.

On the way there are a couple of small attractions: the Burnside Chapel, which looks like it arrived on wheels and has a fantastic metal chimney for a spire; and the Land Girl Cafe, a very welcome stop with lovely cheerful staff, some very nice gifts and great coffee.