Glenorchy
Situated at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, around 45 kilometers from Queenstown is the sleepy town of Glenorchy. This picturesque township is a great place to relax and the drive along the edge of Lake Wakatipu is stunning. Dart River Safaris operates Jet Boat wilderness tours from here and these 4-hour adventures are a must-do. Just a little further along is the tiny hamlet of Paradise situated on the edge of the lake just outside Mt. Aspiring National Park. There are many day and multi-day walks to explore in the Mt Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks including some of New Zealand's iconic ‘Great Walks’ such as The Routeburn and Milford tracks.
In February 2025, Glenorchy became an International Dark Sky Sanctuary - the first inland mountain sanctuary in New Zealand where you can touch the stars from the tops of mountain peaks, and see them reflected in the depths of the lake.
Lord of the Rings Scenic Tour with Pure Glenorchy
This half-day Lord of the Rings tour starts from Queenstown and visits Glenorchy, Paradise, The Dart River Valley and Mt Aspiring World Heritage Area. Take a journey deep into Middle Earth and visit Lord of the Rings filming locations. On your scenic guided tour, you will explore Isengard, Amon Hen, Lothlorien Forest, The Misty Mountains and Ithilien. You will also visit a location from the recently filmed, The Hobbit! Stories and secrets will be shared by guides who have great insight into the filming.
Paradise Zipline Tour
The Paradise Ziplines experience is an 8-line zipline wilderness adventure, which takes you on a very diverse journey by wire and walking track through the pristine native forest of the Oxburn stream valley. The lines vary; from up high with stunning views out to Mt Aspiring National Park and Paradise, through the beautiful native forest canopy, to just metres above an alpine stream. All different lengths with a total of 1km over the 8 lines. During the whole experience you are surrounded by beautiful native beech forest.
It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. Please see here.
Full Day Lord of the Rings Scenic Tour with Pure Glenorchy
Journey deep into Middle Earth with this immersive, full-day Lord of the Rings experience. Combining the best of Queenstown and Glenorchy’s iconic filming locations, this tour takes you to places like Isengard, Ithilien, and the Ford of Bruinen. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll uncover behind-the-scenes secrets, enjoy spectacular scenery in Mt Aspiring National Park, and even get the chance to dress up in authentic-style costumes to re-enact epic scenes. Perfect for film fans and scenery lovers alike—this is the ultimate way to explore the real Middle Earth.
High Country Horses Glenorchy - Mountain High, River Deep
Experience the spectacular backcountry of Glenorchy on this exhilarating full-day horse trek, designed exclusively for experienced riders. Spend 5-6 hours in the saddle, traversing high-country trails, crossing glacier-fed rivers, and exploring ancient beech forests amidst some of New Zealand's most iconic landscapes. This ride offers opportunities for cantering and trotting across pristine wilderness, including locations made famous by The Lord of the Rings. Enjoy a complimentary lunch and discover the true definition of high-country riding.
High Country Horses Glenorchy - Rees River Trail - Half-Day Trip
A perfect half day option for Experienced and Novice riders. Enjoy the stunning scenery of the top of the lake with picturesque Mountain views, and glacial fed river-crossings. Be captivated by stories of the area, rich history and many filming locations from Lord Of The Rings. A magical ride with experienced riders having the opportunity to canter and beginners have the chance to learn - it's a real Kiwi experience!
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