The world of ZOMBIES returns with ZOMBIES 4: DAWN OF THE VAMPIRES, the latest chapter in the beloved Disney franchise. This upcoming American vampire musical film continues the story of Zed, played by Milo Manheim, and Addison, portrayed by Meg Donnelly, as they embark on a summer road trip following their first year in college. The two stumble upon the mysterious realms of Sunnyside and Shadyside, uncovering brand new monster clans and conflicts.
Also returning are Chandler Kinney as Willa, Kylee Russell as Eliza, while newcomers Freya Skye joins the cast as Nova and Malachi Barton plays Victor. The movie will first be shown on Disney Channel on July 10, 2025—and then on Disney+ on July 11, 2025.
The movie promises exciting musical numbers and lots of monster mayhem, but the beautiful locations where it was filmed really bring the story to life. Here’s a detailed look at where ZOMBIES 4: DAWN OF THE VAMPIRES was filmed.
WHERE WAS ZOMBIES 4 FILMED?
Principal photography for ZOMBIES 4 began on March 26, 2024, in New Zealand and continued until mid-May. Originally scheduled for spring 2023, production was delayed due to the SAG-AFTRA strike—but it was worth the wait. The team took full advantage of New Zealand’s breathtaking scenery to create the world of Sunnyside, Shadyside, and the mysterious Mountain College.
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
The main production base for the movie was in Auckland, New Zealand, where a lot of the movie was shot. Auckland, which is known for its wide range of landscapes and modern buildings, was the perfect place to bring the supernatural worlds of Sunnyside and Shadyside to life.
• Piha Beach, which is just west of Auckland, is one of the most famous places shown. The beach is famous for its rough shore and the impressive Lion Rock, which is a natural volcanic monolith. This coastal site has a dark and mysterious feel that goes well with the moody and magical tone of the vampire-themed story.
• King’s College (Auckland): The fictional Mountain College was based on this real private school, which opened in 1896. Its old buildings and large campus were perfect for showing the mysterious and prestigious school that Zed and Addison go to. The film’s college scenes had more depth because of King’s College’s classical architecture and long history.
• AUT – Sir Paul Reeves Building: Scenes were also shot at the Sir Paul Reeves Building, which is part of the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) and is right in the middle of Auckland city. This modern building, with its eye-catching design and glass-paneled front, will likely be seen in scenes that show either the modern world or a futuristic setting related to the new monster groups.
SOUTH ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND & WELLINGTON REGION
The South Island and the Makara Walkway in the Wellington region were also used for filming. These places had lush landscapes, trails through forests, and views of the coast that were perfect for the film’s supernatural, otherworldly tone.
• Wellington Region: Makara Walkway: The crew went outside of Auckland to the Wellington area and specifically to the Makara Walkway, which is famous for its beautiful trails and wide views of the Tasman Sea from the edge of cliffs.
This area has a windswept, spooky background that works well for scenes of change, conflict—or—important discoveries in the movie. Its natural, untouched beauty stands in contrast to the polished sets, giving ZOMBIES 4 a grounded, wild aesthetic.
• Lost Springs, Whitianga: This geo-thermal wonder in New Zealand was featured in several serene scenes. Cast member Julian Lerner shared behind-the-scenes images here, praising its natural beauty. But there’s no evidence that ZOMBIES 4 filmed there.
TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA
In addition to the New Zealand locations, some additional filming was completed in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Toronto is a regular stand-in for American cities in film and television and may have been used for urban scenes or reshoots. The city’s studio infrastructure and tax incentives likely made it a practical choice for select sequences that couldn’t be completed overseas.
STUDIO & SET FILMING
In New Zealand, the team built both natural backgrounds and very detailed studio sets. It was possible to make visually stunning and fantastical scenes in these controlled environments, such as vampire covens, magical lairs, and dance numbers with lighting and effects that couldn’t be captured on location. Cast members used hashtags like #zombies4 and #placetobe to share sneak peeks of these sets on social media.
BONUS PLACES SEEN IN BTS POSTS
Even though studio press releases haven’t said for sure, cast and crew Instagram posts hints at even more filming locations:
• The Lost Spring, Whitianga: Actor Julian Lerner posted a photo at this geothermal hot pool oasis with the hashtags #z4 and #zombies4, suggesting a personal or potential scene-related visit. The tropical setting matches the movie’s tone.
• Hobbiton (The Shire): Julian Lerner also shared a photo at the iconic Hobbiton set in Matamata, tagging it with #hobbiton and #zombies4. Though not officially listed as a filming site, his post hints at a location visit—possibly for behind-the-scenes sequences or bonus content.
• Meg Donnelly also highlighted the journey in an interview, confirming that after finishing work in New Zealand, some team members continued on to Australia, although it’s unclear if any filming occurred there.
• In May 2024, Chandler Kinney, who plays Willa, posted an emotional goodbye message from New Zealand. It said, “I love Zombies, I love NZ, and I love what we created together.” Her gratitude confirms New Zealand as a transformative setting for the film’s production.
• Executive producer Mark Ordesky, known for his work on The Lord of the Rings, also celebrated his birthday in New Zealand with fellow producers, calling the Zombies 4 team his “Disney dream team” and referencing his Rings ties—another subtle connection to Hobbiton vibes.
From the wild coasts of Piha Beach to the historic walls of King’s College and the modern edge of downtown Auckland, ZOMBIES 4: DAWN OF THE VAMPIRES makes full use of its global filming locations to enrich its otherworldly story. Fans can expect visually stunning landscapes that support the unfolding vampire mystery and new monster mythology.
