Glenorchy’s beauty runs deeper than its landscapes. It’s a place steeped in the narrative of tangata whenua, the people of the land. The Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Mamoe iwi, guardians of this land for generations, weave their ancestry into the region through stories of Lake Whakatipu and its legendary origins. One of these tales speaks of Mata-au (the Clutha River), formed by the movements of a sleeping taniwha, a water-dwelling spiritual being.

This cultural heritage is a reminder of the enduring connection between people and nature—a principle we honour at The Headwaters Eco Lodge.

Fast forward to today, and Glenorchy remains a beacon for those who seek unfiltered beauty. Yet, the world has changed, and so has the way we travel. Visitors today are not simply drawn by the promise of adventure but by the opportunity to experience it responsibly.

The Headwaters Eco Lodge sits at the heart of this change as a champion of regenerative travel. Guided by initiatives like Queenstown Lakes’ goal to achieve carbon zero tourism by 2030, Glenorchy’s transformation is a collective effort to balance tourism with conservation. This means honoring the environment, uplifting community voices, and redefining what it means to be a tourist in a place as precious as this one.

At The Headwaters Eco Lodge, every detail—from our Living Building-certified facilities to our community grants via the Glenorchy Community Trust—is designed to create a net-positive impact. We welcome our guests to not only immerse themselves in Glenorchy’s beauty but also contribute to its future.

Visiting Glenorchy means more than just ticking off picturesque spots on a map. It’s about slowing down to appreciate the details—a breeze rustling through tussock grass, the echo of laughter at a local gathering, and the stories of those who call this place home.

Here are some ways to connect to Glenorchy during your visit:

1. Walk in the Footsteps of Legends – Explore the Routeburn Track, one of the world’s Great Walks, or take a guided cultural tour to uncover the stories behind the land.

2. Discover Local Initiatives – Support organisations driven by conservation and climate action, such as the Love Queenstown giving platform.

3. Stay Sustained – Choose environmentally conscious accommodations to ensure your visit actively benefits the community and environment.