Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley, about 15 kilometres past Glenorchy, is exactly what its name promises. This glacial valley backed by Mount Earnslaw and surrounded by ancient beech forest has appeared in more productions than any other single location in the Queenstown region.
Paradise Valley, about 15 kilometres past Glenorchy, is exactly what its name promises. This glacial valley backed by Mount Earnslaw and surrounded by ancient beech forest has appeared in more productions than any other single location in the Queenstown region.
About Paradise Valley
Otago, 3 productions filmed here.
Paradise Valley, about 15 kilometres past Glenorchy, is exactly what its name promises. This glacial valley backed by Mount Earnslaw and surrounded by ancient beech forest has appeared in more productions than any other single location in the Queenstown region.
In The Lord of the Rings, Paradise stood in for the forests of Lothlorien, the approach to Isengard, and the plains of Rohan. In The Hobbit, it became the Trollshaws and the eastern slopes of the Misty Mountains. Hugh Jackman's Wolverine ran through these fields in X-Men Origins, and the Paradise commune in Top of the Lake is just off the main track.
The Diamond Creek and the Arcadia flats within Paradise are the most photographed spots. The combination of open grassland, meandering streams, and the sheer wall of Mount Earnslaw creates a composition that camera operators say "shoots itself."
Otago
“The Paradise Valley offers a rare combination: sweeping cinematic scale with easy access. The flat valley floor accommodates camera cranes, vehicles, and hundreds of extras, while the surrounding mountains provide the epic backdrop. It is one of the few locations in New Zealand where you can point a camera in any direction and get a hero shot. No power lines, no roads, no modern structures - just raw, ancient landscape.”
More to Explore
Productions Shot at Paradise Valley
Every film and TV series that has used this location as a backdrop.
Visitor Information
Everything you need to know before visiting, access, cost, facilities, best times, and photography tips.
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Access
By road (sealed highway to car park), on foot, or by guided tour
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Cost
Free (public land) - guided tours from NZD$169
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Hours
Daylight hours; some locations have restricted access after dark
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Facilities
Nearby car parking and toilet facilities (varies by location)
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Best Time to Visit
October to April (spring through autumn) for best light and weather
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Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon for golden-hour mountain light. A polarising filter helps with water reflections.
Make It Real
Tours That Visit Paradise Valley
Guided experiences that take you to this exact location, with local stories you won't find anywhere else.
Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour from Queenstown
★★★★★ 1440 reviews · From NZD$169
Glenorchy & Paradise Half-Day Scenic Tour from Queenstown
★★★★★ 456 reviews · From NZD$189
Half-Day Milford Helicopter Flight and Cruise from Queenstown
★★★★★ 198 reviews · From NZD$1518
Common Questions
Everything visitors ask about Paradise Valley.
Can I visit this location without a guided tour?+
Yes - Paradise Valley is on public land and accessible to self-drive visitors. However, guided tours provide transport, local knowledge about exact filming spots, and access to areas that may not be signposted. Self-driving is recommended for confident drivers as some access roads are unsealed.
What is the best time of day to visit for photography?+
Early morning (6-8 AM) and late afternoon (4-7 PM in summer) offer the best light for photographing Paradise Valley. The golden hour light on the surrounding mountains creates the dramatic look seen in the films. Midday sun can be harsh and create strong shadows in forest areas.
Are these locations clearly signposted as film sites?+
Most film locations around Paradise Valley are not signposted - the productions were required to leave no trace. Guided tours know the exact GPS coordinates of each scene, and some tour operators carry production stills so you can match the exact camera angle. Self-drive visitors should research locations in advance.
More to Explore
More Film Locations
Explore every filming location in Queenstown, Glenorchy, and Fiordland.
Don't Stop Here
Continue Your Journey
Film locations are just the beginning. Find the cast, watch the trailers, and book your adventure.