Glenorchy

Things To Do

Glenorchy is a modest village in Otago with less than 400 inhabitants. Glenorchy is located on New Zealand’s South Island, 45 kilometers northwest of the prominent tourist town Queenstown. In January and February, the temperatures in Glenorchy often exceed 20 degrees, which makes it the perfect period to soak up the wonderful outdoors.

This settlement may be small in size, but it is a hugely popular destination in the region. Several scenes of the Lord of the Rings film trilogies and other movies were filmed here, and the trailheads of several multi-day tramps are positioned in Glenorchy.

Apart from hiking opportunities and Hollywood fame, Glenorchy has built itself a name by hosting some fun activities. Glenorchy is located next to Lake Wakatipu, where you can explore Pig or Pigeon Island on a kayak safari that departs from Glenorchy itself. See the reflections of the Southern Alps in Lake Wakatipu, and watch native birds fluttering around on the peaceful islands.

Lake Wakatipu and Glenorchy actually form the epicenter of activities in the region. Other adventures here include a Safari of the Scenes with iconic film locations and a Spirit of Queenstown cruise over the lake. Real movie geeks will undoubtedly enjoy the Magical Lord of the Rings tour, which takes you to 5 original film locations of this classic kiwi film trilogy!

In case a relaxing funyak safari in Glenorchy is too mellow for you, you can board a jet boat for an electrifying adventure on the Dart River. You’ll see the enchanting landscapes of Mount Aspiring at high speed, and you’ll even have a chance to tramp in the native bushland. 

Another option is to combine jet boating and kayaking within one day out! Hit the translucent water of the Dart River during a ‘funyak’ and jet boat tour, and be overwhelmed by the spell Mount Aspiring puts on you. 

Glenorchy can potentially please any type of traveller. The protected nature reserves that surround the village are featured in numerous movies and offer endless hiking possibilities. This, plus the activities on Lake Wakatipu, makes Glenorchy a desirable holiday destination!