22 awesome things to do in Glenorchy

Glenorchy is a small charming town at the very edge where the the Dart river flows into Wakatipu Lake and a popular escape from Queenstown. Here you can enjoy pristine nature, fabulous scenery, eat some wonderfull food, go on hikes and even get your adrenaline fix with some thrilling activities.

 

 

22 awesome things to do in Glenorchy

Below are our favorite things to do in Glenorchy. Zi used to live in Queenstown and visited Glenorchy often but you probably won’t have enough time to thick off everything on the list below.

We recommend starting early and doing 1-5 in the order they’re listed, then, depending on how much time you have, prioritize the things that most excite you.

1. Enjoy the Queenstown to Glenorchy drive

MUST DO (and luckily almost impossible to avoid too!)

Yes, the drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is deserving of it’s own paragraph! Actually, we’ve written a whole article on the drive and the best stops along the way, that’s how great it is!

The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy takes about 45 minutes without stops, but we recommend you rent a car and take many, many stops as this drive is without a doubt one of the most stunning ones in New Zealand.

 Read Next: Queenstown to Glenorchy scenic drive

 

2. Grab a coffee at The Trading Post Glenorchy

When you’re in Glenorchy, start by swinging by The Trading Post. They sell all sorts of locally sourced products and might at first look seem like a messy collection of books and souvenirs, but they also serve GREAT coffee.

New Zealand is known for good coffee, and The Trading Post raises this bar even further. So if you’re a coffee lover like us, this is a must-visit!

3. Visit the Glenorchy Waterfront Reserve and Boat shed

MUST DO

Standing by the edge of the water in the Glenorchy Waterfront Reserve you’ll find Glenorchy’s best-known icon; the red Glenorchy boat shed. Glenorchy might be tiny, but everyone in New Zealand knows this red boat shed and you really haven’t been to Glenorchy unless you’ve taken a picture of/with it!

Behind the boat shed is the Glenorchy Wharf; a long jetty over Lake Wakatipu. The wharf makes for great pictures with the Southern Alps in the background, and on a hot summer day it is the best launching spot for a refreshing dip in the lake.

 

4. Jump on a Dart River Jet Boat or go Funyaking

MUST DO

The Dart River starts from the Dart Glacier in the Southern Alps and flows for over 60 kilometers to then end up in Lake Wakatipu. It is shallow enough to be able to walk to the other side in most parts and it flows a bit different every year. This makes it impossible for normal boats to navigate the Dart River as they’ll most certainly beach, so that’s where jet boats come in.

No only can jet boats run in shallow water, they are also very, very fast and nimble. Book a Dart River Jet Boat for a thrilling ride through one of New Zealand’s most breath-taking landscapes, or take it up a step and go funyaking!

In our opinion, funyaking is one of the most fun (as the name suggests) activities in New Zealand. It starts with a thrilling jet boat ride up the Dart River, complete with commentary courtesy of the wonderful guides, then the boat drops you off upstream where you step into your own funyak (which is a bit like a rubber kayak). In your funyak you paddle downstream, get a chance to jump into some pools, where about halfway back to Glenorchy you’ll go ashore shore where picnic is prepared for you. After your snack a 4WD bus takes you through the wilderness past many of the filming sport for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies, to then drop you back off in Glenorchy or Queenstown. You’re guaranteed to love it!

5. Have Lunch at Glenorchy Café & Bar

MUST DO

The Glenorchy Café & Bar, or GYC as often referred to is the perfect spot for brunch. Great coffee, delicious baked goods and sandwiches so tasty that your mouth starts to water just from looking at them. On a nice and sunny day you should definitely take a seat outside in their large garden full of unique art contraptions.

 

6. Do the Lagoon scenic walk

From the carpark at the Waterfront Reserve a walking track goes into the marshlands. Over boardwalks you’ll be led to and around the peaceful Glenorchy Lagoon. The whole loop takes about an hour, but there are plenty of benches and tables for stops along the way so pack some food for a picnic.

In summer there are often black swans paddling on the lagoon, and on wind still days you can see clear reflections of the surrounding mountains in the water. Be sure to cover yourself in bug repellent before you go though, because this area is notorious for an overabundance of pesky sand flies.

 

7. Discover Middle Earth and the LOTR filming locations

We already mentioned that there are loads of Lord of the Rings filming locations in the area, and if you’re a big fan of the movies like Tom is, then you can easily spend a whole day going from spot to spot comparing reality to what you’ve seen in the movies.

You can try finding them all (Misty Mountains, Isengard, Forest of Fangorn, Ithilien Camp) yourself by using this guide of the most iconic Lord of the Rings filming locations or book this Lord of the Rings tour for the best experience.

 Read Next: Best Lord of the Rings filming locations in NZ

 

8. Explore the Dart valley on a horseback

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

If you’re not that into adrenaline fuelled activities like jet boating, but would still like to explore the Dart River and valley, then a tour of the area on horseback might suit you better. There are several tours to choose from, fit for any level.

Leisurely explore the valley, wade through the Dart River on horseback and enjoy the stunning scenery while your trusty steed does the work. If you’re into horse riding, Glenorchy is definitely a place for you!

 

9. Attend the Glenorchy Horse Races

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Glenorchy Race Day is a real southern kiwi experience that’s been a local’s favourite since 1962. People from near and far dress up for this event and spend the day cheering, drinking and having fun in the sun.

The races are held every year on the first Saturday after New Year.

 

10. Take a Scenic Flight to Milford Sound

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Did you know that Glenorchy is actually closer to Milford Sound than Queenstown, at least in a straight line? Luckily for you, airplanes can take this shortcut over the mountains and you get to see Milford Sound from above.

This Milford Sound flight and cruise package is perfect as it includes a scenic flight to Milford Sound and back, and a boat cruise there which gives you the perfect opportunity to take in the views from the water and from a birds eye perspective.

 

11. Try the legendary pie at Mrs Woolly’s

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Mrs Woolly’s is a general store with history and soul. Here’ you’ll find fresh produce, nicknacks, household items and the best pies in New Zealand (possibly the world). Try the steak & mushroom one, it’s divine!

 

12. See the reflections at Diamond Lake

About a 10-15 minute drive north of Glenorchy lies Diamond Lake. Unfortunately there are no real diamonds to be found here (how cool would that be!), it was simply named this way because of the shape of the lake.

The lake and it’s surroundings are beautiful and on a wind still day you’ll get perfect reflections of the Humboldt Mountain Range in the lake. There is a DOC campsite here as well, where a million sand flies reside, so if you do decide to stay here bring some serious protection.

13. Find Paradise

MUST DO

Paradise? What?! Yeah you’ve read that right. If you continue driving up the Glenorchy Paradise Road from Diamond Lake you get to a place that is literally called Paradise, and for lovers of the outdoors this place is true to its name.

The scenery is simply epic with massive mountain ranges in every direction and the Dart River meandering through the landscape like a massive snake.

 

14. Scream at Paradise Ziplines

I think we can all agree that zip-lining is an awesome activity. Add the incredible scenery of Paradise to that and you have a true highlight of your trip!

A course of eight zip lines with a total length of over 1000 meters takes you through the forest, over an alpine stream and shows insane views of the snow-capped mountains around you. If you’re looking for a bit of a thrill, then make sure to book your zip line adventure here.

 

15. See lupins around Glenorchy

You’ve probably seen photos of wild lupins at Lake Tekapo, but did you know that you can find lupins in Glenorchy as well?

Every spring thousands of pink, purple and even yellow lupins decorate the shores of Waikatipu lake and the Dart river, a sight not to be missed! Usually they’re at peak blossom in December.

16. Kitesurf with a view

Kitesurfing? Isn’t that a sport people only do in tropical areas? While it is definitely more popular in areas with warmer waters, New Zealand actually has some really good kitesurfing spots and Glenorchy is one of them (might just be Zi’s favourite).

When the wind blows over the Dart River it creates a perfect flat-water kitespot at the river mouth. And, if you’re into kitesurfing you know how rare the combination of flat water and wind is in New Zealand. While the water is cold and every fall results in a tiny brain freeze, the views are absolutely worth the chill!

The spot is offshore and not suitable for beginners. Wear a good wetsuit and booties.

 

17. Go Skydiving

Since we’re already talking about thrills, how about we add skydiving to the equation?! Skydive Southern Alps takes you high above Glenorchy to then kick you out of their plane Spartan style.

Just kidding! What they actually do is offer tandem skydives over one of the most incredible bits of the world. You’ll be attached to an experienced and licensed skydiver and they’ll do all the work while you take in all the views (and, if you ask nicely, maybe steer a bit).

It’s thrilling, it’s fun and the views are out of this world so make sure to book your jump into the abyss here.

EDIT: The Skydive Center in Glenorchy has closed. You can book your jump in Queenstown for very similar views or check the best places to go skydiving in New Zealand.

18. Sheer a sheep at Glenorchy Animal Experience

Want to have a taste of what life on a farm in New Zealand is like? Then check out the Glenorchy Animal Experience. This family-run farm has over 100 farm animals (or pets as they like to call them).

Visiting is a great experience for families with kids, and big kids like ourselves. Here you’ll get to pet and hand feed the animals, watch sheep-sheering demonstrations and roam around in pens and open paddocks.

 

19. Hop on a helicopter

Can you think of a better way to take in the breath-taking scenery of the Southern Alps than from the air? No? Neither can we!

Hop into a Heli Glenorchy helicopter for an awesome scenic flight over Lake Wakatipu, the Dart River and the mountain tops of the Alps. If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, then book this LOTR heli tour that flies you over all the Lord of the Rings filming locations in the area (and there are a lot!).

If you happen to find yourself in Glenorchy or Queenstown in winter, then put on your ski goggles and turn that into a thrilling heli-skiing experience.

 

20. Drive over to Kinloch

On the other side of the Dart River lies Kinloch. Apart from a hostel, a campsite, a few houses and some sheep, there isn’t much there. So apart from it being a great spot for some peace and quiet, why do we even mention it at all?

Kinloch it is the perfect starting or overnight point for the best hikes in Glenorchy; the Greenstone and Caples tracks, and the famous Routeburn Track, of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks. If you plan on walking any of these, consider spending the night before (or after) in Kinloch. With all that peace and quiet you’re practically guaranteed a good night’s rest!

 

21. Hike the Routeburn Track

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

The Routeburn track connects the Mount Aspiring National Park with Fiordland National Park and is one of the Nine Great walks. The track takes you through alpine meadows, past wonderful waterfalls, shimmering lakes and offers some seriously breathtaking views over both national parks.

If you’re fit enough and can arrange a pick up on the other side, then you can do the entire hike in a day, however, Doc recommends doing it as a 2 or 3 day hike and spending the night in the huts or campsites along the way.

The huts and campsites get booked out quickly in high season and they are very much overpriced for what the offer. The huts and campsites are not serviced and you need to bring all food, camping gear and everything else you might need with you. If you can afford it we recommend you book a guided tour with a stay in a beautiful serviced hut with all meals provided. Gotta admit, we were quite jealous of these guys while we were trying to get some sleep in a shared dorm full of snorers!

 

22. Hike the Lake Sylvan Track

Lake Sylvian is a picturesque mountain lake in Mt. Aspiring National Park with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

The track starts not far from Kinloch. As you cross the Dart river you’ll have to turn right to Lake Sylvan campground. From here it’s an easy walk and the loop only takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Getting there

The best way (by far!) of getting from Queenstown to Glenorchy is by car. This gives you the flexibility to stop as you please along the way, and trust us, you’ll want to stop all the time! We suggest you book your rental car ahead of time. If Glenorchy and Queenstown are part of a longer NZ trip then consider renting a campervan.

There is no public bus to Glenorchy but if you don’t have your own wheels you can catch the shuttle bus that also runs to the starting point of hikes in the area. You can see the timetable and pricing here. Keep in mind that the shuttle does not stop along the way for sightseeing.

The third option is to book a guided tour of Glenorchy or book one of the activities we mentioned above as they all offer transport from your hotel in Queenstown and do a few stops to take in the view along the way.

And, saving the best for last, you can also book this VW Kombi with a chauffeur to do the trip in style and take some awesome insta shots!

Where to stay

Glenorchy is easily reachable from Queenstown and can be done as a day trip. If you wish to spend the night in Glenorchy there are a few options in town as well as beyond, tucked away and surrounded by nature, however let me warn you, the prices are often even higher than in Queenstown.

Routeburn Retreat   GORGEOUS VIEWS CHECK PRICES

Glenorchy Eco Retreat   DELICIOUS BREAKFAST CHECK PRICES

Bold Peak Lodge   BUDGET OPTION CHECK PRICES

 

Where to eat

For its size, Glenorchy offers quite some choice in terms of food and we already mentioned a few of the options:

• GYC cafe is fabulous for breakfast, lunch and brunch
• Mrs Woolly’s is great for snacks or you can preorder a picnic basket
• Glenorchy Hotel Pub is the go to for dinner and evening drinks

 

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New Zealand travel insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when travelling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

ACC in New Zealand covers you for accidents but if you get sick or loose your luggage you’ll need a good insurance to cover it for you.

We always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is our go to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations here.

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