Lord of the Rings fans have finally been able to enjoy Amazon's highly-anticipated prequel The Rings of Power, but it's not just the gripping plot and drama that has kept viewers enthralled.
Those vast green valleys, crystalline waters and dense forests are not all the work of CGI; just like Peter Jackson 's iconic first three films, the show was filmed on location in the breathtaking New Zealand countryside.
In fact, cast members were taken to locations so beautiful they were brought to tears, the shows executive producer previously revealed.
We take a look at some of the key Rings of Power filming locations that mega fans will want to add to their bucket lists...
The Denize Bluffs
Situated on the North Island in New Zealand, the sharp rocky outcrops pierce into the sky and tower over the vegetation below.
In the Rings of Power they serve as a backdrop for the migration of the Harfoots.
Canny Hobbit fans may also recognise the rock formations from when Bilbo Baggins is handed the Sting sword by Gandalf.
The Hauraki Gulf
Anawhata Beach's secluded location and rugged coastal surroundings made it an ideal filming location for the show, and can be seen in scenes where Galadriel, the fearsome elvish warrior, and Elendil ride across it on their horses.
The beach is a perfect for a visit for those who like a hike and a more quiet spot, and is located on Auckland's west coast, slightly north of Piha and slightly south of Bethells.
Piha Beaches
Piha Beach, which is west of Auckland, is famous across the world for its black volcanic sands and the hills which tower over the waters, which happen to be perfect for surfing.
In the series Galadriel and the mysterious Halbrand bump into one another on the choppy waves here after the Sundering whips the ocean up into a frenzy.
Mount Kidd
Mount Kidd is one of the most dramatic peaks in the whole of New Zealand, situated on the Fiorland.
As well as its sharp, triangular peak that is often crested with snow, the mountain hangs over a clear blue pool.
It is here that the brave Bronwyn finds her voice as a leader of the loyal Southland forces.
According to Callum Greene, an executive producer on the series, the 11,000 feet tall filming location had quite the impact on cast and crew.
"Two actors started crying when they got to the top—they were so overwhelmed," he told People.
The location was difficult to film at due to severe weather, meaning only a few cast and crew could be shuttled up to the mountain via helicopter at a time.
Kumeu Film Studios and Auckland Film Studios
The monumental budget of the show means that some of the all encompassing vistas that provide a backdrop for the action are in fact sets.
While the original films were shot in Wellington, because studios there were being used by the Avengers, the Rings of Power cast headed to Auckland.
This included flooding one of the studio floors and whipping the water up into a maelstrom to provide a stormy sea upon which Galadriel and Halbrand meet.
