Explore the Scenic Beauty of Deer Park Heights with iBestTravel
When it comes to television and film, New Zealand’s rugged landscapes, stunning lakes, hills, and valleys are well-established international stars. Countless travelers have ventured there seeking the beauty of Middle-earth. Now, for the first time in 11 years, a landscape that featured in key scenes from the Lord of the Rings movies has opened to the public to explore.
Located in Queenstown, Deer Park Heights was originally opened in 1966 and quickly became a popular attraction. Here, visitors enjoy a self-drive safari-style experience on an 800-hectare working farm boasting some of the best views in New Zealand. Although it has operated as a deer farm for the past 11 years, it is now reopening to welcome visitors. A new access code system for specific days will allow visitors to embark on scenic drives and participate in animal encounters, with plans to stay open seven days a week during daylight hours.
Wildlife Spotting Adventure
The Kelvin Heights Peninsula park enables guests to spot red and fallow deer, goats, miniature horses, llamas, alpacas, donkeys, and Kunekune pigs. Visitors can drive along a five-kilometer road, featuring picnic spots and a 20-minute walk that offers 360-degree views of Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range. Movie enthusiasts will recognize locations from major films including Lord of the Rings, Wolverine, and Pete’s Dragon. Additionally, an interactive online map helps guide individuals through notable movie locations and areas of interest.
Accessibility and Visitor Information
Owner Mike Mee is determined to make the area accessible once again, allowing visitors to appreciate its unique beauty. “It’s such an amazing location, and it seems a shame to not share it. We want to welcome visitors to a great fun, good value family day out for those who want to spend time outdoors and with our animals,” Mike stated. To cater to families, access is limited to vehicles with up to seven seats, excluding buses, minivans, and commercial vehicles. Unfortunately, hikers and cyclists are not permitted from the tollgate as they tend to scare the animals, especially the deer.
Pricing and Access
A vehicle access fee is set at $55, with pre-bookings necessary through the official website. Access is limited to the specified day of booking, and entry is allowed only once per visit.
