Joanna James
Glenorchy is always a wonderful experience for the whole family. It's the ideal spot for a weekend break of camping, trekking, and new experiences, with exciting activities for all ages. Here are five exciting Glenorchy things to do with your young explorers.
Theresa and Robert (together with their dog Trevor) are the newest proprietors of Glenorchy Animal Experience, which has been in their family for almost 100 years. Families are invited to come to meet the domesticated animals. Hand feed the alpacas, llamas, as well as goats. View sheep shearing demonstrations and pet anything from guinea pigs to lambs. And don't forget to greet Frank who is a gentle Clydesdale. This delightful farm experience will appeal to both children and adults, with over 100+ friendly animals full of personality.
In the lovely Dart River Valley, The Lighthorse Adventures offers 2 horse trip adventures for families. Riding through farms and woodland, follow the twisted river under the towering peaks of the nearby mountains. Their Easy Rider hike is suitable for the whole family. Children aged five to fifteen may ride with their parents on this slow-paced trail ride, while children under the age of eight should be accompanied by an adult. The Pony Express, on the other hand, is a twenty-minute picturesque pony ride for children aged three to seven. The Rees River Trail, offered by High Country Horses, is an excellent introduction to horseback riding. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes, river crossings, movie settings, and tales about the area's rich history for youngsters aged 7 and up who are escorted by an adult for safety purposes. If you are looking for safe accommodation fit for children, then you might want to check out lakefront apartments in Queenstown the likes of Oaks Queenstown Shores Resort.
Bring a picnic and then see how many birds are found here on the Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway. This wonderful, picturesque walk, just a few minutes from Glenorchy village, is a simple trip for small legs, with a stop midway to refuel and absorb the views. Keep an eye out for wetlands birds as you go around the lake on the walkway. Pied stilts, South Island pied oystercatchers, black swans, Australasian bitterns, New Zealand shovellers, grey duck, grey teal, and scaup are all possible sightings.
Glenorchy is the starting point for one of New Zealand's Great Walks, which is the Routeburn. While little legs may not be prepared for the whole four-day trek through glacier valleys, the Routeburn Nature Walk provides a taste of the trail as well as a lovely stroll through beech trees. Tui, bush robins, bellbirds, fantails, and yellowheads are among the flora and birds that may be seen and heard on the interpretive panels.
The Invincible Gold Mine Track is another interesting Glenorchy trek for young explorers. This is a lengthier hike, around three hours round trip, with some tough climbing for older children. Beautiful vistas and intriguing historical artefacts from the gold mining period will be rewarded for your efforts.
Families love camping, and working parents enjoy a campsite designed for family enjoyment. Mrs Woolly's Campground has it all: a kids' playground, outdoor BBQs, a fully equipped kitchen, and a fresh cappuccino. The lagoon boardwalk, The lakefront, and Mrs Woolly's General Store are all within walking distance. Set up camp and prepare for your big Glenorchy expedition.
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