Where Was The Movie Top Of The Lake Filmed

So, have you guys seen Top of the Lake? I mean, it's this crazy-good TV series that's like a dark, twisted dream - in a good way, obviously! It's all about this detective, Robin Griffin, played by Elizabeth Moss, who's trying to solve this super mysterious case in the middle of nowhere, New Zealand.

The show is all about atmosphere, and I'm pretty sure the location is like, a character in itself. I mean, can you think of a more breathtakingly beautiful place to set a murder mystery? The mountains, the lakes, the forests... it's all just so moody and perfect for a thriller. So, where was it all filmed, you ask?

The Main Locations

So, the main location for the show is this tiny town called Glencarlyn, which is actually a real place in New Zealand. It's on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, which is just, wow... have you seen that lake? It's like a giant mirror reflecting the surrounding mountains. Anyway, the town is super small, but it's got this quirky charm that's just perfect for the show.

The production team chose Glencarlyn because of its remote location, which added to the whole isolated and eerie vibe of the show. And, let's be real, it's just so visually stunning - I mean, who wouldn't want to film in a place that's surrounded by mountains and water? It's like a dream come true for any cinematographer!

Other Filming Locations

But, Glencarlyn wasn't the only location used in the show. The production team also filmed in other nearby towns, like Queenstown and Glenorchy. These places are all pretty tiny, but they've got this character that's just perfect for the show. And, of course, the surrounding landscapes are just breathtaking - I mean, have you seen the Routeburn Track?

I mean, can you imagine walking through those mountains, surrounded by nothing but nature? It's like, the ultimate escape from reality, right? And, the show's creators totally took advantage of that - I mean, who needs special effects when you've got mother nature on your side?

Picture of Top of the Lake

But, what's really cool is that the show's location manager, Phil Turner, is actually a local guy who knows the area like the back of his hand. He was able to find all these hidden gems that just added to the show's atmosphere. I mean, it's not every day you get to film on a private island, right?

The Challenges of Filming

Of course, filming in such a remote location wasn't without its challenges. I mean, can you imagine transporting all that equipment through the mountains? It's like, a logistical nightmare, right? But, the crew was all about persevering, and it totally paid off in the end.

The weather was also a bit of a challenge, apparently. I mean, it's not like they could just predict the weather or anything... but, they worked around it, and it actually added to the show's mood. I mean, who needs sunny skies when you can have moody clouds and windy mountains?

Top of the Lake TV Series to Film Second Series Sydney, Broadsheet

And, let's not forget the local wildlife - I mean, have you seen the sandflies in New Zealand? They're like, tiny little monsters that just love to attack you. But, the crew was all about embracing the local environment, and it shows in the final product.

Visitor Information

So, if you're inspired by the show and want to visit the locations yourself, you can totally do that! I mean, Glencarlyn and the surrounding areas are all pretty easy to get to, and there are plenty of tourist attractions to check out. You can even stay in some of the same hotels and lodges that the crew used during filming.

And, if you're feeling adventurous, you can always try some of the outdoor activities that the area has to offer - like or kayaking. Just watch out for those sandflies, okay? They're like, everywhere! But, seriously, the area is just stunning, and I'm sure you'll love it just as much as the show's creators did.

Anyway, that's a wrap, folks! I hope you enjoyed this little chat about Top of the Lake - it's definitely a show that's stuck with me, and I'm sure it will with you too. So, go ahead and binge-watch it, and then plan your trip to New Zealand - you won't regret it, I promise! And, who knows, maybe you'll even spot some of the filming locations in person - how cool would that be?