Embark with us on a captivating journey across the diverse landscapes of Oceania, the setting for countless films, TV shows, and books. This comprehensive guide will take you on a cinematic tour, revealing secrets, curiosities, and hidden gems of this mesmerizing continent.
Introduction
From the rugged Outback of Australia to the breathtaking fjords of New Zealand, Oceania has provided stunning backdrops for many renowned movies and series. Its rich cultural heritage and diverse ecosystem have also inspired numerous literary works. Whether you’re a film buff, a bookworm, or simply an adventurous traveler, this guide will help you explore Oceania’s famous filming locations, truly immersing you in your favorite stories.
10 Famous Films Shot in Oceania
Oceania’s dramatic landscapes and vibrant cities have attracted filmmakers from around the world. Here are ten famous films shot in Oceania that have captivated audiences globally.
Australia
- Mad Max: Fury Road (2015): This post-apocalyptic action film directed by George Miller features the vast, barren landscapes of the Australian Outback, giving it a desolate and dystopian feel.
- Australia (2008): Baz Luhrmann’s epic romantic adventure film showcases the sweeping vistas and rugged beauty of Australia’s Northern Territory and Western Australia.
- Muriel’s Wedding (1994): This comedy-drama directed by P.J. Hogan was filmed in Sydney and the Gold Coast, offering a glimpse of Australia’s urban and coastal life.
New Zealand
- The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001-2003): Peter Jackson’s epic fantasy trilogy was shot extensively across New Zealand. The country’s stunning landscapes became the mythical Middle Earth, attracting LOTR fans from around the world.
- The Hobbit Trilogy (2012-2014): Also directed by Peter Jackson, these prequels to LOTR continued to showcase New Zealand’s breathtaking scenery.
- The Piano (1993): Jane Campion’s romantic drama was filmed on New Zealand’s wild west coast, capturing its untamed beauty.
Fiji
- Cast Away (2000): This Robert Zemeckis film starring Tom Hanks was shot on the uninhabited island of Monuriki in Fiji, depicting the isolation of a man stranded on a deserted island.
- The Blue Lagoon (1980): Randal Kleiser’s romantic survival drama was filmed on the idyllic island of Nanuya Levu, showcasing Fiji’s tropical paradise.
Papua New Guinea
- Mr. Pip (2012): This war drama directed by Andrew Adamson was filmed in Bougainville, Papua New Guinea, featuring its lush landscapes and traditional villages.
French Polynesia
- Couples Retreat (2009): This comedy directed by Peter Billingsley was shot in Bora Bora, French Polynesia, showcasing its crystal-clear lagoons and luxurious resorts.
5 TV Shows Set in Oceania
Oceania’s unique locations have set the stage for several popular TV shows. Here are five series that have brought the continent’s diverse locales to the small screen.
Australia
- Home and Away (1988-present): This long-running soap opera is filmed in Palm Beach, Sydney, depicting the fictional coastal town of Summer Bay.
- Neighbours (1985-present): This iconic Australian soap opera is set in the fictitious Melbourne suburb of Erinsborough.
New Zealand
- The Almighty Johnsons (2011-2013): This comedy-drama about modern-day Norse gods was filmed in various locations around Auckland, New Zealand.
- Top of the Lake (2013-2017): Jane Campion’s crime drama was filmed in Queenstown and Glenorchy, showcasing New Zealand’s stunning southern landscapes.
Samoa
- Survivor: Samoa (2009): The 19th season of this popular reality show was filmed on the island of Upolu in Samoa, presenting its beautiful beaches and lush jungles.
5 Animated Films Set in Oceania
Oceania’s vibrant cultures and enchanting landscapes have also found their way into the world of animation. Here are five animated films set in Oceania that will delight viewers of all ages.
- Finding Nemo (2003): Pixar’s beloved animated film is set in the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia.
- Moana (2016): This Disney film is set in the Polynesian islands of the South Pacific, celebrating the region’s rich mythology and seafaring traditions.
- The Rescuers Down Under (1990): This Disney sequel takes place in the Australian Outback, featuring its unique fauna.
- FernGully: The Last Rainforest (1992): This environmentally-themed animated film is set in an Australian rainforest.
- Footrot Flats: The Dog’s Tale (1986): This New Zealand animated comedy is based on the comic strip “Footrot Flats” by Murray Ball.
Famous Books Set in Oceania
From the rugged Australian Outback to the mystical landscapes of New Zealand, Oceania has inspired numerous literary works. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in Oceania that transport readers to this fascinating continent.
Classic Books
- For the Term of His Natural Life by Marcus Clarke: This classic Australian novel tells the story of a British convict sent to the penal colonies in Australia.
- The Bone People by Keri Hulme: This Booker Prize-winning novel set in New Zealand explores themes of isolation, love, and Maori culture.
- A Pattern of Islands by Arthur Grimble: This memoir recounts the author’s life in the Gilbert and Ellice Islands (now Kiribati and Tuvalu) in the early 20th century.
Contemporary Books
- The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough: This worldwide bestseller set in outback Australia tells the story of a family’s struggles and triumphs over three generations.
- The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton: Set during the New Zealand Gold Rush, this Man Booker Prize-winning novel weaves a complex tale of love, crime, and mystery.
- Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones: Set in Bougainville during the civil war, this novel explores themes of war, colonialism, and the power of storytelling.
Exploring Oceania’s Filming Locations – Where to Go
To fully immerse yourself in the cinematic history of Oceania, there are several key locations you must visit.
Australia
Start your journey in Sydney, the backdrop for countless films and TV shows. Visit the iconic Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, and take a stroll around the Rocks, the city’s historic area. Don’t forget to take a trip to Palm Beach, the filming location for “Home and Away.”
Next, head to Melbourne, the setting for “Neighbours,” and explore its bustling city center and charming suburbs.
For a taste of the Outback, visit the Northern Territory, where “Australia” and “Mad Max: Fury Road” were filmed. Explore the vast desert landscapes, the dramatic gorges, and the unique wildlife.
New Zealand
In New Zealand, your first stop should be Hobbiton, the actual set used for the Shire in “The Lord of the Rings.” Located in Matamata, this tourist attraction offers guided tours of the set.
Next, head to Wellington, where you can visit the Weta Workshop, the special effects company responsible for creating the props, costumes, and creatures for “The Lord of the Rings.”
Don’t miss out on Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, where scenes from “Top of the Lake” and “The Lord of the Rings” were filmed.
Fiji
In Fiji, you can visit Monuriki Island, the actual location where “Cast Away” was filmed. This uninhabited island is part of the Mamanuca Islands and can be visited on a day trip.
French Polynesia
In French Polynesia, head to Bora Bora, the idyllic setting for “Couples Retreat.” Enjoy the crystal-clear lagoons, luxurious resorts, and stunning beaches.
Papua New Guinea
In Papua New Guinea, you can explore Bougainville, the filming location for “Mr. Pip.” This autonomous region is known for its lush jungles, active volcanoes, and traditional cultures.
Where to Sleep in Oceania
When it comes to accommodation, Oceania offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference.
Budget
For a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of cozy guesthouses and boutique hotels scattered throughout the continent. Here are some suggestions for budget accommodations in Oceania:
- Wake Up! Sydney: This vibrant hostel is located in the heart of Sydney and offers dormitory-style rooms.
- YHA Wellington: This budget-friendly hostel in Wellington, New Zealand, offers comfortable rooms and is located close to major attractions.
- Smugglers Cove Beach Resort & Hotel: Located in Fiji, this budget resort offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms.
Luxury
If you’re looking for luxury, consider staying at one of Oceania’s iconic five-star hotels, such as:
- Park Hyatt Sydney: This luxury hotel offers stunning views of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
- The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort: This luxury resort in French Polynesia offers overwater bungalows and beach villas.
- The Langham, Auckland: This five-star hotel in Auckland, New Zealand, offers luxurious rooms and suites.
Where to Eat in Oceania
Oceania’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape. From traditional Maori hangi to Australian bush tucker, the continent offers a plethora of dining options.
Budget
For budget-friendly options, consider these:
- The Australian Heritage Hotel, Sydney: Try their famous kangaroo, emu, and crocodile pizzas.
- Fergburger, Queenstown: Known for their delicious and affordable burgers.
- Govinda Restaurant, Fiji: Offers a variety of vegetarian dishes at reasonable prices.
Luxury
For a more luxurious dining experience, consider these:
- Quay, Sydney: One of Australia’s top restaurants, offering stunning views of the Sydney Opera House.
- The French Café, Auckland: One of New Zealand’s finest restaurants, offering a modern European dining experience.
- La Villa Mahana, Bora Bora: Offers a romantic dining experience with a French-Polynesian fusion menu.
Detailed Itinerary Day by Day
To make the most of your film-themed trip to Oceania, we have curated a comprehensive itinerary that will take you to the continent’s most iconic filming locations.
Day 1: Sydney, Australia
Start your day at the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. After lunch, head to the Rocks, followed by a trip to Palm Beach.
Day 2: Melbourne, Australia
Explore Melbourne’s city center and suburbs, the setting for “Neighbours.”
Day 3-4: Northern Territory, Australia
Spend two days exploring the Outback, visiting key filming locations for “Australia” and “Mad Max.”
Day 5-6: Matamata and Wellington, New Zealand
Visit Hobbiton and take a tour of the set. The next day, head to Wellington and visit the Weta Workshop.
Day 7: Queenstown, New Zealand
Spend a day in Queenstown, taking in the stunning landscapes seen in “The Lord of the Rings.”
Day 8: Fiji
Take a day trip to Monuriki Island, the filming location for “Cast Away.”
Day 9: Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Relax in Bora Bora, the filming location for “Couples Retreat.”
Day 10: Bougainville, Papua New Guinea
Explore Bougainville, the filming location for “Mr. Pip.”
Cryptid Legends and Curiosities
Oceania is a land of ancient myths, cryptid legends, and fascinating curiosities.
In Australia, legends of the Bunyip, a large mythical creature from Aboriginal mythology, have been passed down through generations. The creature is said to lurk in swamps, billabongs, creeks, and waterholes.
New Zealand is known for the legend of the Taniwha, a mythical creature found in Maori mythology. These beings are said to live in the ocean, rivers, or caves and are considered guardians by some tribes.
The Fiji Mermaid is a famous curiosity. It was presented as a mummified body of a creature that was supposedly half mammal and half fish, a version of a classic mermaid story. The original had been displayed by P.T. Barnum in Barnum’s American Museum in New York in 1842 and was touted as a genuine mermaid caught near Fiji in the South Pacific.
Hidden Gems in Oceania
While Oceania’s famous landmarks often steal the spotlight, there are hidden gems worth exploring:
- The Daintree Rainforest, Australia: The oldest rainforest in the world, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a paradise for nature lovers.
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand: This cave system is home to thousands of glowworms that light up the ceilings, creating a magical environment.
- Isle of Pines, New Caledonia: Known as “the closest island to paradise,” this lesser-known island offers beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Savai’i, Samoa: This untouched island offers stunning waterfalls, lush rainforests, and traditional Polynesian villages.
- The Cook Islands: This group of 15 islands in the South Pacific offers stunning lagoons, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant Polynesian culture.
What to Pack for a Trip to Oceania
When packing for your trip to Oceania, consider the diverse climates across the continent.
For tropical regions like Fiji and Samoa, pack light clothing, a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. For the Australian Outback, pack lightweight clothing, sturdy shoes, a hat, and sunscreen. If you’re visiting New Zealand, pack layers to accommodate the varying temperatures, and don’t forget a raincoat.
Regardless of where you’re headed, a good pair of walking shoes is a must, as you’ll likely be exploring various locations on foot. Also, pack a good camera to capture your favorite filming locations!
Transportation Tips
Getting around Oceania’s filming locations is relatively easy, thanks to the continent’s extensive transportation networks.
In Australia and New Zealand, renting a car is a convenient way to explore at your own pace, especially for remote locations. Public transportation is also available in major cities.
In the island nations of Fiji, Samoa, and French Polynesia, inter-island flights and ferries are the most common modes of transportation.
Always remember to check travel advisories and local regulations, especially when visiting remote or protected areas.
Travel Documents Needed
Before your trip to Oceania, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter certain countries, so check the visa requirements well in advance.
Conclusion
From the cinematic landscapes of “The Lord of the Rings” to the vibrant settings of “Neighbours,” Oceania offers a wealth of filming locations that invite exploration. Whether you’re following in the footsteps of your favorite characters or discovering the rich cultures and diverse ecosystems of this continent, your journey through Oceania promises to be a memorable adventure. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the cinematic paradise of Oceania!
