Inside Robert Redford's NZ Paradise While Filming Disney's Pete's Dragon

A short helicopter flight west from Tapanui is a place called Paradise, so it's no surprise that Mr. Redford elected to enjoy a luxury escape here with his family:

• The best way to reach a luxury resort in Paradise is by air, and Redford and family were transferred to Wyuna House by Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters who also filmed the aerial sequences for Disney's Pete's Dragon. Their scenic flight took in the wider Southern Lakes region across jagged peaks, mountain glaciers and Milford Sound's dramatic waterfalls;


• Immersed in a landscape that has captured the eye of many filmmakers, Wyuna Houseis a luxury villa set in a private natural reserve. Perched above the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, the schist and timber lodge has been designed to blend harmoniously into its beautiful alpine setting;


• Just across the road from Wyuna House, the Redford family dined at New Zealand's celebrated Blanket Bay Lodge. The 13-room lodge has panoramic lake views and an award-winning kitchen– both of which have helped gain many awards, including being named as the 'World's Ultimate Escape' by the UK Sunday Times Magazine;


• The region is one of New Zealand's most popular destinations for hikers and nature lovers, with more than 19 day walks to explore. The Redford family went on several local trails including the Diamond Creek walk.