Central Otago‘s Glenorchy is famous for its unspoiled natural beauty and as the setting of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. According to a report, it’s now the location of New Zealand’s first zero-net energy campground.
However, if you’re expecting two-star, rough-and-ready camping when you stay at Camp Glenorchy, think again.
It’s as luxurious as it can get due to the expertise of top interior designers and individual touches made by its owners—Seattle philanthropists Paul and Debbi Brainerd. High-fliers in the USA’s tech industry, the owners came across Glenorchy during a vacation more than a decade ago.
It took four years and lots of dedication to bring their ideas to fruition, with more than 300 tradesmen working on the project.
Recycled timber was brought in from across New Zealand to give a natural, eco-friendly look to the seven cabins and two bunkhouses.
Solar heating keeps each room warm throughout winter.
The kitchens are equipped with induction cooktops and the guests can enjoy the lavish amenities all while making a difference for the planet.
If you’re interested in checking on the neighbors’ water usage during your stay, you can do it with an individual tablet in each room. There are also seven powered campsites, not for tents, but RVs.
The toilets are self-composting, and there is no need to flush. The toilets at Camp Glenorchy are anticipated to save 300,000 liters of water annually.
Another great aspect of the camp is the art that surrounds it. The Brainerds have commissioned sculptors and artists to design pieces for the camp. It’s the perfect place to walk under the magnificent mountain ranges of Glenorchy.
Former Prime Minister Bill English attended Camp Glenorchy’s recent launch, where he described the Brainerds as tech-savvy heads who had created an iconic national treasure.
Everyone is welcome to experience the camp, and reservations are now being accepted. The costs aren’t expensive, with rates beginning at just NZ$75 for a shared bunkroom.
Located 45km from Queenstown, Camp Glenorchy is an eccentric, peaceful, inspirational, and relaxing sanctuary that is clean, ecologically sustainable, and toxicity-free.
To learn more about the campground, visit their website here.
Ever wondered what it’s like to be in a place where eco-luxury meets nature? Take a trip to Camp Glenorchy, New Zealand’s first zero-net energy campground in stunning Glenorchy. Absorb the creativity of the art installations as you enjoy a sustainable camping adventure.