Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve
Pelorus Bridge
Jade-green river pools in native forest, with a suspension bridge, short walks, and the filming location of the barrel ride in The Hobbit.
The reserve lies beside State Highway 6 between Blenheim and Nelson and protects extensive native forest of tall podocarps (rimu) and beech. The Pelorus River forms clear green pools here, good for swimming in summer. A suspension bridge and several tracks, from 10 minutes to 2 hours, lead to waterfalls and lookouts. The barrel scene in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey / The Desolation of Smaug, where dwarves ride down the river in barrels, was filmed on a nearby stretch of river. The reserve has a café and a DOC campground.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Havelock
- Pelorus Sound / Te Hoiere
- Marlborough Wine Trail (Wairau Valley)
- Brancott Estate Cellar Door
- Cloudy Bay Vineyards
- Makana Confections
- Pollard Park
- Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre