Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is a UNESCO-listed wilderness of ancient rainforest, clear rivers and dramatic alpine scenery, where kayaking, hiking and quiet moments in nature reveal New Zealand at its wildest.
About Fiordland National Park
According to the Māori legends, Fiordland National Park was formed by Demigod Tuterakiwhanoa, who is said to have carved the rugged landscape from formless rock.
Known as Ata Whenua, or Shadowland, Fiordland is a place of mystery, where deep valleys and soaring mountain peaks create dramatic patterns of light and shade.
100 million years in the making
Around 100 million years ago, the glaciers began to shape a new landscape as they etched their way toward the sea. These powerful natural forces created the beautiful fiords we can experience today.
Why should you visit the New Zealand fiords?
Both New Zealand and Norway are renowned for their staggering fiords, but each offers a completely different experience. In Norway, you will see the sheer length and breadth of the fiords which is breathtaking.
While in New Zealand, you will encounter dramatic landscapes that seem as though you have stepped into a whole other world. This is largely because New Zealand has been geographically isolated for so long that its flora and fauna are truly unique.
Highlights of Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is home to some of the country's best walks and stunning views, including the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn Tracks. On each hike, you will witness spectacular scenery as you pass through rainforests and cascading waterfalls.
Take a scenic drive in Fiordland National Park
The road between Te Anau and Milford Sound is one you will want to do slowly. Stop along the way to soak up the stunning views and take your time to capture those picture-perfect moments.
Due to its proximity to Milford Sound, Te Anau is a great base for exploring Milford. The 73-mile scenic drive is a worthy item to tick off your bucket list.
Enjoy off-the-beaten-track experiences
If you enjoy adventure and getting off the beaten track, hop on board a jet boat and have fun as you make your way down the crystal-clear waters of the Waiau River to the breathtaking Lake Manapouri.
Discover a fascinating underwater world
Scuba diving in Milford Sound is like nowhere else in the world. As you descend into the dark freshwaters, you will discover coral and fish species that would otherwise only be found in deep seawater.
Things to do in Fiordland National Park
Experience New Zealand's Great Walks
Did you know Fiordland is home to three of New Zealand’s Great Walks? The Milford Track, the Kepler Track, and the Routeburn Track can all be experienced in this incredible national park.
If you choose to do a multi-day hike, you will need to have a certain level of fitness. There is a network of huts, such as Clinton Huts and Mintaro Huts on the Milford Track, where you can stay overnight, or you can also choose to bring a tent and camp in another area near the huts.
Travel tip: Book the huts well in advance, as they get booked out very quickly.
Enjoy a day hike
If you’re short on time or multi-day hiking isn’t for you, there are plenty of rewarding day hikes to choose from. Shorter walks such as Key Summit, Gertrude Saddle and Luxmore Summit take you through spectacular landscapes with breathtaking views. You can also stop at beautiful Lake Marian, though be warned, the water is likely to be far too cold for a swim.
Discover the fiords on a cruise
Cruising through Fiordland National Park is a must-do, with no better way to appreciate the sheer scale of the landscape than from the water. Relax as you glide through the fiords, but don’t forget to look up and take in the sky-scraping peaks above.
The scenery feels almost otherworldly and truly has to be seen to be believed. A cruise through Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound will leave you feeling as though you’ve passed through a mystical, unforgettable wilderness.
Take to the skies on a scenic flight
Experience a scenic flight over Fiordland National Park and discover the wild and untouched area that is made up of 14 fiords from the sky. Flights depart from Te Anau or Milford Sound for a bird's-eye view of the magnificent waterfalls, lakes and forest.
Kayak through the fiords
Kayaking through the fiords at sunrise is a truly unforgettable experience. Watch as pink and purple hues shift across the sky, with the surrounding peaks reflected in the still water around you.
Feel the mist from waterfalls cascading down forest-covered mountains, and keep an eye out for wildlife such as penguins, seals and dolphins.
Discover Milford Sound
The 10-mile-long Milford Sound was once described by Rudyard Kipling as the eighth wonder of the world. This magical place is renowned for towering Mitre Peak, as well as Stirling and Bowen Falls, which plunge down its steep cliffs.
We suggest staying overnight to experience the feeling of having this enchanting place almost to yourself. The sense of seclusion in one of the wildest corners of the South Island is truly remarkable.
Travel tip: There are no shops or WiFi in the area. You will find a cafe at Milford Sound Lodge.
Fiordland has a network of more than 300 miles of walking trails, including the famous long-distance Kepler, Milford and Routeburn Tracks.
Marvel at Doubtful Sound
Sometimes called the ‘Sound of Silence’, Doubtful Sound is the deepest and second-largest of New Zealand’s fiords, measuring 0.25 miles deep and 25 miles long.
It is known for its spectacular waterfalls, especially during the wetter seasons when Browne Falls and Helena Falls at Deep Cove are in full flow.
Local legend tells that when Hine-nui-te-pō, goddess of the underworld, saw the fiords, she thought them too beautiful to be touched by humans and released millions of sandflies to keep them away.
Travel tip: Be sure to pack your insect repellent because sandflies are legendary in the fiords.
Hike the Milford Track
The Milford Track is one of New Zealand’s most famous walks. Beginning at the head of Lake Te Anau, it crosses mountain passes, suspension bridges and boardwalks, passing natural lakes, towering peaks and dramatic valleys. A highlight is feeling the misty spray of Sutherland Falls, New Zealand’s tallest waterfall
If time is limited, you can choose a half-day guided tour, taking a boat to the end of the track before walking a shorter section.
Don’t let the weather deter you. The Milford Track is just as stunning in the rain as it is in sunshine, especially when the waterfalls are in full flow.
Experience the 'finest walk in the world'
The best time to walk the Milford Track is from late October to April, when days are longer and views are clearest. From May to late October, expect colder, wetter conditions, with ice and snow.
Best time to travel to Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park’s weather can be unpredictable, and you may experience all four seasons in a single day. Conditions change quickly, so it’s best to dress in layers and pack a warm jacket and waterproof coat.
With around 200 days of rain each year, there’s a good chance you’ll get a little wet. That said, after heavy rainfall is one of the most spectacular times to visit, when waterfalls gush down the mountainsides and the landscape feels wonderfully alive.
Getting to Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is located on New Zealand’s South Island. The towns of Te Anau and Manapouri make ideal bases for exploring the park, with easy access by scenic flight, cruise or boat.
Explore the Southern Scenic route
Fiordland is also part of the Southern Scenic Route, a spectacular road trip that leaves Dunedin, winds through the south and finishes in Queenstown. It’s a journey so memorable it will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Travel tip: The Milford Road is the only road from Te Anau to Milford Sound.
Where to stay in Fiordland National Park
Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our large collection of hand-selected accommodations located in the Fiordland National Park and beyond. Your travel specialist will match you with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. With TravelEssence, your accommodation is an experience in itself.
Let's design your holiday together
We'll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke holiday with your pace, your interests, and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you'll receive a mapped-out itinerary from us – but the process isn't done until you are 100% satisfied.
We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you. Get in touch to get started now.
