Ian McKellen says he's open to returning as Gandalf in the upcoming new Lord of the Rings films ... including a U.K. tour of the show. David Semark took his place. In an update at the time ...

Located roughly 110 miles southeast of Auckland on a working sheep farm, the Hobbiton Movie Set is a must for fans of "The Lord ... tour. The on-site parking lot is free and tours cost NZ$89 ...