Overview
Mount Sunday, also known as Ben McDermott, is a striking flat-topped hill located in the Canterbury region of New Zealand. It gained international fame as the filming location for Edoras, the capital city of Rohan in Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Iconic filming location and scenic hiking destination
Location
Address
Canterbury
Neighborhood: Ashburton District
Coordinates
-43.716700, 171.483300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
November to April
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild, cooling down from summer
- • Wildflowers
- • Green landscapes
summer
Warm to hot
- • Long daylight hours
- • Warm temperatures
autumn
Cool, crisp air
- • Fall colors
- • Cool breezes
winter
Cold, short days
- • Frosted landscapes
- • Quiet trails
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check weather forecast
- Bring plenty of water
- Wear appropriate hiking gear
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high
- • Altitude change
- • Uneven terrain
Medical facilities: First aid kit recommended, nearest medical facility in Ashburton (30 min drive)
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit card (if applicable)
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Hiking attire, Layered clothing, sturdy boots, Hiking boots or shoes, Inappropriate footwear (e.g., flip-flops)
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but guided tours may need advance booking
- • Local tour operators or official websites
- • Varies by tour operator
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Ashburton District App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Maps, Hiking trails, Local attractions
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Limited or none, depends on carrier
Charging Stations: Not available
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Christchurch International Airport
Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 30 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty and cultural significance as a film location
Historical Significance: Used as Edoras in the Lord of the Rings films, boosting local tourism
Insider Tips
- Visit during the week for a quieter experience
- The summit offers 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside
- Local cafes offer Lord of the Rings-themed treats
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the nearby Ashburton town for local cafes and shops
- • Ask for local guides with knowledge of the area's history and film locations
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Māori
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Summit of Mount Sunday
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the entire landscape
Result: Breathtaking panoramic views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Ashburton Museum
Distance: 30 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Museum
Rakaia Gorge
Distance: 40 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Natural Landmark
Mid Canterbury Heritage Centre
Distance: 35 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Bring plenty of water"
- "Start early to avoid crowds"
- "Wear sturdy boots"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
27
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
500
Adult Entry
Free