Experience the Ice Age: A World-First VR Adventure

Introduction

The Future is Wild at The Hillocks offers a one-of-a-kind adventure that combines outdoor exploration with state-of-the-art technology. This attraction features an immersive virtual reality (VR) experience like no other, where visitors can:

1. Explore the visitor centre and check-in point
2. Discover four specially designed “hides” equipped with VR headsets

During this extraordinary journey, guests will have the opportunity to:

• Travel back in time and witness the fascinating events of the Ice Age
• Marvel at the power of nature as they observe rockfalls shaping the valley
• Encounter the majestic moa, an extinct bird species, as it roams freely across the landscape

Glenorchy has always been dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism. The region offers a range of eco-friendly accommodations and initiatives aimed at preserving its breathtaking natural beauty. By prioritizing regenerative tourism practices, Glenorchy not only enhances the experiences of its visitors but also safeguards its unique environment for future generations.

Engaging with this groundbreaking VR experience contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding sustainability and environmental responsibility in the tourism industry.

The Future is Wild: Overview of the Attraction

The Future is Wild project represents a groundbreaking venture in Glenorchy, merging outdoor adventure with advanced technology. This initiative is being developed at Dart Valley Station, where collaboration with local conservation groups enhances its significance.

Key features of the project include:

• A 1300m loop walk that guides visitors through stunning landscapes, promoting an immersive experience in nature.
• Visitor centre/check-in point designed to connect guests with the surrounding environment and facilitate the use of virtual reality (VR) technology.
• Four specialized “hides” equipped with VR headsets, allowing participants to journey back to the Ice Age and witness the valley’s evolution.

Glenorchy has cultivated a reputable image as a leader in sustainable tourism, exemplified by eco-friendly accommodations like Headwaters Eco Lodge and Kinloch Lodge. The region’s recent designation as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary further cements its commitment to environmental preservation.

With initiatives such as tree planting led by the partnership with Te Tapu o Tāne, this attraction not only offers unique experiences but also fosters community involvement in sustainability efforts. This innovative project positions Glenorchy at the forefront of regenerative tourism while ensuring ecological integrity remains paramount.

Immersive Experience at The Hillocks

The Future is Wild project boasts a cutting-edge visitor centre/check-in point that sets the stage for an unparalleled immersive experience. Utilizing advanced virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies, this attraction immerses visitors in a time long past, allowing them to witness the dramatic transformation of the valley during the Ice Age.

Key Features of the Visitor Centre

• Interactive Displays: The visitor centre features interactive exhibits that introduce guests to the immersive experiences awaiting them.
• Check-in Point: A streamlined check-in process ensures that visitors can easily access their VR adventures without delays.

Exploring the Four ‘Hides’

The heart of this adventure lies within four specially designed ‘hides’, where guests don VR headsets to embark on a journey through time. Each hide offers a unique perspective on the natural history of Glenorchy:

1. Ice Age Transformation: Experience the formation of the valley as glaciers carve out landscapes, showcasing how nature has sculpted this stunning region.
2. Rockfalls and Hillocks: Witness rockfalls that shaped the iconic hillocks, giving insight into geological processes.
3. Extinct Moa Habitat: Encounter the majestic moa, an extinct giant bird once roaming these lands, enriching your understanding of biodiversity in New Zealand’s history.
4. Natural Wonders: Immerse yourself in the lush surroundings and appreciate how these elements interconnect to create Glenorchy’s unique ecosystem.

This innovative blend of outdoor exploration with VR and AR marks a world-first in tourism, setting a new standard for engaging educational experiences while emphasizing conservation and sustainability.

Sustainable Practices and Environmental Initiatives

The Future is Wild initiative integrates sustainability into every visitor experience, emphasizing tree planting initiatives that create a lasting environmental impact. Key aspects include:

• Partnership with Te Tapu o Tāne: Collaborating with this iwi-owned conservation charity underscores the project’s commitment to local conservation efforts. Together, they address ecological challenges while enhancing the natural landscape of Glenorchy.
• Native Tree Nursery: Visitors can select a native tree from the on-site nursery, which will be planted on their behalf. This practice not only fosters a sense of ownership but also contributes to the reforestation of the region. Each visitor receives updates about their tree’s growth, creating a personal connection to sustainability.
• Impact on Environment: The initiative anticipates planting approximately 115,000 trees annually around the Dart River bed and wetlands. These trees will help establish a native bird corridor while enriching biodiversity in the area.

This approach aligns with the world-first concept of linking an outdoor experience with VR and AR technologies at the visitor centre and four hides. By immersing visitors in both history and environmental stewardship, The Future is Wild reflects Glenorchy’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

Visitor Contributions to Sustainability Through Innovative Technology-Enhanced Outdoor Experiences

Visitors to The Hillocks play a crucial role in promoting sustainability by directly engaging with environmental practices. Here’s how each visitor contributes during their experience:

1. Tree Planting

As part of their visit, tourists select a native tree from an on-site nursery. This personal involvement fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility toward the environment.

2. Carbon Compensation

Understanding their carbon footprint is crucial for many travelers. By participating in tree planting, tourists actively contribute to carbon offsetting, effectively compensating for emissions produced during their journey.

The initiative encourages guests to reflect on their travel impact. With every tree they plant, visitors receive updates on its growth, reinforcing the connection between their actions and environmental health. This unique approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also cultivates a community of environmentally conscious tourists.

Engagement in these sustainable practices allows visitors to leave a lasting positive mark on Glenorchy’s landscape. The integration of technology with outdoor experiences transforms tourism into a collaborative effort in conservation. Each visit becomes more than just leisure; it evolves into an opportunity for participants to support regenerative tourism actively.

Future Developments in VR Tourism: Collaborating with Burning Fish Productions for High-Quality Content Creation

The collaboration with Burning Fish Productions signifies a significant leap towards the integration of cutting-edge technology in tourism. This partnership aims to leverage high-resolution display technology, including 8K visuals, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in breathtaking virtual environments.

Key aspects of this initiative include:

• Adaptive Experiences: Plans are underway to evolve experiences based on real-world environmental changes. For instance, if a hurricane occurs, next year’s offerings could simulate its effects, providing an educational perspective on climate resilience.
• Technological Advancements: The focus extends beyond immediate experiences. The vision involves continuous enhancement of VR technologies to ensure engaging and relevant content that resonates with evolving visitor interests.
• Virtual Accessibility: For those unable to visit in person, virtual experiences will be available, broadening the reach of Glenorchy’s unique narrative. This strategy aligns with the growing global market for virtual tourism, projected at approximately $US6 billion, expanding at a rate of 25% per year.

These innovative steps position Glenorchy as a frontrunner in marrying sustainability with cutting-edge tourism technology, promising an unforgettable journey into the past while fostering a future-conscious mindset.

Conclusion

Experience the unique blend of sustainability and technology by visiting Glenorchy. This hidden gem offers a range of tourist activities that focus on environmental stewardship.

• Discover Glenorchy’s sustainable tourism offerings: Engage in the innovative project, The Future is Wild, which showcases cutting-edge VR and AR technology.
• Learn about VR and AR in tourism: The visitor centre features four “hides” where you can immerse yourself in the Ice Age, witnessing how rockfalls shaped the hillocks and the majestic moa that once roamed the valley.

Your participation not only enriches your experience but also contributes to conservation efforts. Each visit plants a tree, reinforcing a commitment to preserving this stunning environment. Explore these world-first attractions that harmonize outdoor adventure with groundbreaking virtual experiences. Embrace innovation as it reshapes the future of tourism in Glenorchy.