Have you heard of Glenorchy?

For a small settlement tucked away at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, Glenorchy sure does pack a punch. With a highlight reel that includes rocket powered speed boats, wild kayaking, mind-blowing hiking and parts of Middle‑earth that you have to see to believe, this Queenstown local favourite is unquestionably worth the 45-minute drive.

Paradise

Just up the road from Glenorchy is Paradise; the filming locations for Lothlorien, Amon Hen, Orthanc and Isengard. The natural beauty you see on the road to Paradise and when you get there is almost too much. It’s easy to get carried away with photos so, by all means, take snaps but remember to sit and take it all in with your own peepers too.

Eat and Drink

Selection isn’t huge when it comes to eating and drinking in Glenorchy, and that’s something that adds to its charm. Try the Glenorchy Café for a ham-off-the-bone sandwich, The Trading Post for an espresso, and Kinloch Lodge for some heartwarming vegetarian nosh and fine New Zealand wines.

Adrenaline

Where to start? There is Skydive Southern Alps for those looking to float down amongst the mountains and Heli Glenorchy if you’d rather soar above them. Dart River Wilderness Jet offers a hair-raising and rapid-fire look at the stunning surrounds, and they all are rated extremely highly on TripAdvisor.

Adventure

If the Fellowship of the Ring is more your calling, adventurous spirits can take on Glenorchy on horseback with High Country Horses, by 4WD with Delta Discovery, or in a kayak with Rippled Earth Kayaking.

Chill

If it’s all too much and you’re looking to get away from people and machines – just chill. Glenorchy has plenty of walking tracks and sweet spots, like Glenorchy Waterfront Reserve, Rees-Dart Track and the easy to handle and incredible to witness Glenorchy Lagoon Boardwalk.

words by niall roeder