Rotorua, Central North Island
The geothermal city of Rotorua provided the backdrop for most forest scenes in Pete’s Dragon. Explore the bubbling mud pools and steaming geysers of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, visit Mitai Māori Village for an insight into New Zealand’s indigenous culture and head to Skyline Rotorua for breathtaking views and thrilling adventures.
Whakarewarewa Forest (Rotorua Redwood Forest)
Explore the majestic Whakarewarewa Forest, where towering, 110-year-old Redwoods stand as silent guardians. These ancient giants provided the perfect backdrop for the magical home of our beloved characters. Embark on the ‘Redwoods Treewalk’ and ascend 12 metres above the forest floor for a dragon’s-eye view of the lush canopy below. The forest is also popular with hikers and mountain bikers.
Queenstown, Lower South Island
Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital, is a lively tourist destination. Renowned for its snow-capped peaks and opportunities for exploration, this alpine resort caters to all thrills. For an adrenaline rush, head to the iconic Kawarau Bridge, try the heart-stopping Nevis plunge or canyon swing and race your friends on the Luge at Skyline Queenstown. For a more relaxed pace, go on a horse ride or cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the century-old TSS Earnslaw. If you’ve got some time up your sleeve, take a day trip to the iconic Milford Sound.
Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables
The Remarkables mountain range rising over the stunning Lake Wakatipu provided a perfect backdrop for Disney’s Pete’s Dragon. The scene where Pete watches as Elliot, the dragon, appears from beneath a cliff was filmed below these majestic peaks.
Deer Park Heights
Filming also occurred at Deer Park Heights farm, just 20 minutes from central Queenstown. Glacier Southern Lakes, a local helicopter company, captured the breathtaking aerial footage. The same company offers daily scenic flights and private charters for visitors to experience their own aerial adventure.
Wellington, Lower North Island
Wellington, the coolest little capital in the world, is a vibrant city buzzing with life. Explore trendy laneway cafes, visit Te Papa (New Zealand’s national museum), ride the historic Wellington Cable Car, and spot native wildlife at Zealandia, the world’s first fully-fenced eco-sanctuary.
Battle Hill Farm Park
Remember the scene where Pete leaps off a cliff and is swept up by Elliot? This dramatic moment was filmed at Battle Hill Farm Park, just 30 minutes outside Wellington. Adventure seekers can hike, bike, and even camp overnight amidst the park’s picturesque pastures.
Mount Victoria
The lush forests of Wellington’s Mount Victoria, which previously appeared in the iconic Lord of the Rings film locations, also hosted Elliot’s forest frolicking in Disney’s Pete’s Dragon.
Wētā FX
Many of the scenes featuring Elliot were created using CGI at Weta Digital, a visual effects company founded by filmmakers Peter Jackson and Richard Taylor. Go behind the scenes at the Weta Workshop to see artists and props from major films, and visit the Weta Cave mini-museum to see costumes and life-size movie characters.
Tapanui, Lower South Island
Tapanui serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring one of New Zealand’s Great Rides – the 73-km Otago Rail Trail. Cycle through spectacular scenery and over 20 of New Zealand’s rural mining towns. As you traverse the trail, you’ll uncover the fascinating legacy of New Zealand’s gold mining history.
Tapanui Town
Step into the enchanting world of Pete’s Dragon as you explore Tapanui, the quaint Kiwi town that transformed into the fictional small logging town of Millhaven. Nestled amidst picturesque, gently rolling farmland, this charming hamlet is home to just 900 friendly locals. But don’t let its small size fool you – Tapanui boasts world-class fishing, with rivers brimming with salmon and the biggest brown trout in the world.
Conical Hill
A short hike up nearby Conical Hill reveals the remains of a disused sawmill featured in the Disney Film. As you wander through the remnants of this Disney movie set, you can almost hear the echoes of Pete and Elliot’s adventures.
Follow in Pete’s Footsteps and Experience the Magic of New Zealand
New Zealand’s spellbinding scenery steals the show in Pete’s Dragon. With a tapestry of landscapes woven together by movie magic, New Zealand beckons fans to journey through Pete and Elliot’s world. Whether you seek thrilling adventures, natural wonders, or a sprinkle of Hollywood pixie dust, New Zealand promises an unforgettable odyssey. So why wait? Pack your bags and let the Pete’s Dragon filming locations transport you to a realm where friendship and fantasy take flight!
