Where Was The Movie Top Of The Lake Filmed

So, there I was, binge-watching Top of the Lake, utterly captivated by the hauntingly beautiful landscapes, when it hit me - where on Earth was this show filmed? I mean, the scenery was so breathtaking, it had to be somewhere truly spectacular. And boy, was I right!

Welcome to Queenstown, New Zealand

Alright, let's dive right in. The majority of Top of the Lake was filmed in the stunning Queenstown, New Zealand. Now, if you're anything like me, you might be thinking, "New Zealand? Isn't that where they filmed The Lord of the Rings?" Well, yes, yes it is. But Queenstown is no one-hit wonder. It's a place of such staggering beauty, it's been dubbed the "Adventure Capital of the World".

Lake Wakatipu: The Star of the Show

At the heart of Queenstown lies the stunning Lake Wakatipu, the longest lake in New Zealand. It's here that you'll find many of the show's most iconic scenes. The lake's crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain backdrop create a setting that's equal parts serene and eerie, perfectly reflecting the show's dark and atmospheric tone.

Remember the scene where Robin Griffin, played by the incredible Elisabeth Moss, is walking along the lake's edge, lost in thought? Or the one where she's standing on the shore, watching as a body is pulled from the water? Those were all filmed right there on Lake Wakatipu. It's like the lake itself is a character in the show, isn't it?

Queenstown's Historic Buildings

But it's not just the lake that steals the show. Queenstown's historic buildings and architecture play a significant role in the series as well. The charming old pubs, the quaint shops, and the grand old hotels all add to the show's unique atmosphere.

For instance, the historic Queenstown Hotel, built in 1863, makes an appearance in the show. It's a beautiful old building with a rich history, and it adds a touch of old-world charm to the series. And let's not forget the iconic Kawarau Bridge, the world's first commercial bungee jumping site. It might not be the most glamorous location, but it's certainly one of the most memorable!

So, Why Queenstown?

You might be wondering why the creators of Top of the Lake chose Queenstown as their filming location. Well, apart from the fact that it's absolutely gorgeous, Queenstown also has a lot to offer in terms of infrastructure and support for film productions.

Queenstown has a dedicated film office that provides support and assistance to productions filming in the area. The town also has a wealth of experienced crew members and a range of film-friendly locations. Plus, let's not forget the generous incentives offered by the New Zealand government to attract international productions. It's a win-win, really.

Picture of Top of the Lake

Visiting Queenstown: A Must for Fans

If you're a fan of Top of the Lake, then a visit to Queenstown should definitely be on your bucket list. It's not every day you get to walk in the footsteps of your favorite TV characters, right? And who knows, you might even spot some familiar filming locations!

Just imagine standing on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, the very same spot where Robin Griffin stood as she gazed out at the water. It's like stepping into the world of the show itself. Pretty cool, huh?

But Wait, There's More!

While the majority of Top of the Lake was filmed in Queenstown, there are a few other locations you might recognize. For instance, some scenes were filmed in the nearby town of Arrowtown. This charming little town is known for its historic buildings and beautiful tree-lined streets. It's the perfect place to find that quintessential Kiwi atmosphere.

And then there's the stunning Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the backdrop for some of the show's most dramatic scenes. With its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforests, it's a place of such breathtaking beauty, it's almost impossible to describe.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

Whether you're a die-hard fan of Top of the Lake or just a lover of all things beautiful, Queenstown is a place you simply must visit. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, it's a destination that's sure to leave a lasting impression.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure. Who knows, you might just find yourself standing in the very same spot where Robin Griffin once stood, gazing out at the water, lost in thought. And isn't that what travel is all about?