Technically the park is still there (meaning the land and beautiful mountain scenery), public access is now denied though. As reported in the Otago Daily Times Owner Frank Mee said he was closing the park, but it was not for sale. He said the park had been making money and was “very popular”. “Everyone is going bankrupt in Queenstown, but we are not. . . we’re just getting too old, so we’re giving up,” he said.

We think giving up may be a bit harsh Frank… you are 87 after all, and you opened the  wildlife park 40 years ago.

Deer Park Heights is known for its wildlife but became famous after filming for the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Many Lord or the Rings film locations are within the park boundaries. Many Lord of the Rings tours from around Queenstown and New Zealand visit the park. A couple of the most recognisable movie scenes include the Warg battle with the Riders of Rohan and the perfectly clear lake the Rohirrim Refugee were led past. Ladies (and some gentlemen readers) will remember the  scene where Aragorn falls from the cliff during the Warg battle which was also filmed here.

Scenes for X-Men Origins: Wolverine were also filmed at the Park.

The closure of Deer Park Heights was very sudden and the various Lord of the Rings Tour companies and are still working out what access, if any will remain. We will keep you updated.

Keyword sentence:

Lord of the Rings location Deer Park heights in Queenstown no longer allows public access to location tours