Paradise Safari Mavora Lakes
Scenic Lord of the Rings Tour
The adventure begins with a voyage across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak on the vintage steamship the TSS Earnslaw. From here, your knowledgeable guide will transport you overland to the heart of the Mavora Lakes area. Learn about the many legends of the region, marvel at the views on offer, and visit movie locations from the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
After lunch, return to Walter Peak for a classic Kiwi farm show followed by afternoon tea, before catching the steamship back to Queenstown.
This tour includes:
- TSS Earnslaw Cruise
- Remote Lord of the Rings movie locations
- Picnic lunch
- Farm show and afternoon tea at Walter Peak Homestead
TSS Earnslaw Cruise
Relive the elegance of turn-of-the-century travel with a scenic cruise on Queenstown's iconic vintage steamship. The TSS Earnslaw is believed to be the oldest working coal-fired steamship in the southern hemisphere. Cruising on the "Lady of the Lake" is like stepping back in time. Below deck, the steam engines hiss and thud as the stokers shovel coal into the glowing fireboxes. Relax on board and view the stunning alpine scenery while enjoying food and drink from the Promenade Cafe. There's plenty of time to explore the decks and bridge, view the engine room or join a sing-along with the on board pianist. In the fo'c'sle gallery, a collection of historic photos offer a glimpse into the vessel's colourful past.
Remote Lord of the Rings Movie Locations
Located approximately 65km by road from Te Anau and over 150km from Queenstown, Mavora Lakes is one of New Zealand's most isolated camping, hiking and recreational areas. This peaceful setting was used by Peter Jackson in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, both for sweeping wide shots, and as the location for some key moments in the story. Locations featured in the Paradise Safaris Mavora Lakes trip include Fangorn Forest, Amon Hen, Nen Hithoel (Sindarin 'Lake of Many Mists'), and the River Anduin.
Picnic Lunch
The picnic lunch generally comprises of a chicken sandwich, museli bar, muffin, and a juice box, but can vary day to day. Please advise us of any dietary requirements when booking the tour.
Farm Show and Afternoon Tea at Walter Peak Homestead
Experience true New Zealand high country farming lifestyle with an entertaining farm demonstration followed by afternoon tea at the Walter Peak Homestead. Watch the dogs bringing in the sheep from the surrounding hills, see the farmer shear a sheep and try your hand at spinning wool. After the farm show, take a short stroll through the beautiful lakeside gardens before enjoying a relaxing cup of tea on the deck, or in one of the grand dining rooms inside the homestead.
