Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring natural attractions. Located in the southwest corner of the South Island, this 1.2 million hectare park encompasses majestic fiords, glacial lakes, rainforests, and towering mountains. A visit here feels like stepping into another world, with its dramatic landscapes and wealth of wildlife. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, Fiordland is the place to be. Let’s explore the enchanting highlights of this magical national park.
Table of Contents
Location and Geography
Fiordland stretches across a remote corner of New Zealand. Driving from Queenstown, it takes around 4-5 hours to reach the main hub of Te Anau. The park extends from Martins Bay in the north to Preservation Inlet in the south, covering a series of steep fiords carved out by ancient glaciers. These deep u-shaped valleys were formed during the ice ages and subsequently filled with seawater. Sheer cliffs, waterfalls and forested slopes surround the intricate coastline. Much of the rugged terrain remains inaccessible, adding to the wild and pristine atmosphere.
Major Attractions
Milford Sound
Arguably New Zealand’s most famous natural wonder, Milford Sound is a must-see on any Fiordland itinerary. This narrow glacial fiord snakes between towering Mitre Peak and Dale Point, with waterfalls cascading down sheer cliffs. Going on a boat cruise allows you to get up close to sights like the 162-meter Bowen Falls. Seals, dolphins and penguins are commonly spotted in the fiord’s waters. Don’t miss experiencing Milford Sound!
Doubtful Sound
While less famous than Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound is equally breathtaking. Being more remote with no road access, it lacks the crowds of Milford Sound. Doubtful Sound is the deepest and second longest fiord, boasting three distinct “arms” – First Arm, Crooked Arm and Hall Arm. Joining a boat tour reveals some of New Zealand’s highest waterfalls, like the 434-meter Helena Falls. Pods of bottlenose dolphins often track the boats here.
Lake Te Anau
Lake Te Anau is the largest lake in the South Island and second largest in New Zealand. The lake covers 344 km2, featuring three glacier-carved fiords. Its clean, blue waters are perfect for kayaking, cruises and fishing for trout. On the lake’s eastern shore is Te Anau township, the main gateway to Fiordland National Park and starting point for tramping the Kepler Track.
Kepler Track
One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Kepler Track weaves through spectacular mountain scenery. Following a 60km circuit around Lake Te Anau, this challenging 4 day hike crosses luxuriant beech forests, ridges with panoramic views and the picturesque Iris Burn Valley. Don’t miss side trips to waterfalls like the 30-meter Rainbow Falls. The trackside Kepler Water Taxi saves the hassle of walking there and back.
Milford Road
Driving Milford Road itself is an incredible Fiordland experience. Passing lakes, mountains and rainforest, the 120km road culminates at Milford Sound. This feat of engineering took over 40 years to complete. Notable sights include the Homer Tunnel, Mirror Lakes and Avenue of the Disappearing Mountain. Remember to watch for kea parrots that may land on your car!
Flora and Fauna
Fiordland’s remote wilderness fosters an array of unique flora and fauna.
Trees and Plants
Lush temperate rainforests cloaked in moss and lichens thrive in this high rainfall area. The valleys and lowlands host tall kahikatea and totara trees, while mountain beech dominates higher altitudes. Snow totara trees cling to rocky cliffs by Milford Sound.Ground cover includes crown ferns, lichens and coprosma shrubs.
Birds
Native birdsong resonates through the forests. Spot parrots, robins, rifleman, morepork owls and the rare takahe. Coastal cliffs are home to blue penguins and New Zealand’s only crested penguins. Raucous kea parrots beg for food in the mountains. Watch for falcon and brown kiwi at night.
Mammals
Deer, chamois and wild pigs roam Fiordland’s mountains and valleys. New Zealand fur seals and dusky dolphins populate the outer coasts and fiords. You may even spot shy Fiordland crested penguins or rare Hector’s dolphins near the mouths of the fiords.
Marine Life
Fiordland’s fiords host a diversity of marine life. The clear, deep waters provide an ideal habitat for black coral and species like tubeworms, sponges and brachiopods. Schools of fish feed on plankton. Bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales and porpoises are regularly sighted.
Activities
Hiking
Tramping Fiordland’s hiking tracks rewards with stunning scenery. Short walks include the Lake Gunn Nature Walk and Precipice Track. Multi-day Great Walks include the Milford, Kepler and Hollyford Tracks. More advanced hikers can tackle the remote Hump Ridge or Dusky Tracks.
Boating
Cruising the fiords by boat is a must. Options range from guided tours to kayaking and private charters. Highlights include waterfalls, wildlife and marine life. Popular routes go to Milford and Doubtful Sounds. Small boat fishing for cod and trout is also popular.
Fishing
Anglers flock to Fiordland for trout fishing. Lake Te Anau and the surrounding rivers and streams offer superb trout fisheries. Hire a local guide or take a helicopter to more remote spots. Sea fishing charters target groper, blue cod and crayfish.
Camping
With over 500 backcountry huts and campsites, Fiordland is a camper’s paradise. Great Walks like the Kepler Track have designated camping spots. More remote valleys and beaches provide the ultimate wilderness experience. Just be sure to register your intentions and pack for Fiordland’s wet climate.
Best Time to Visit
Fiordland is open year round. The most ideal and popular time is from November to April, Fiordland’s warmer and drier summer months. Tramping the tracks is best in this season. Heavy rain more frequently impacts the fiords during winter, but the cooler months avoid crowds. The park’s scenery is stunning in any season.
How to Get There
Fiordland National Park has no direct flights. The nearest international airports are Invercargill and Queenstown. From these hubs, it’s around 4-5 hours driving to reach Te Anau and Milford Sound. Some bus services directly link Queenstown, Te Anau and Milford Sound. Many travelers also choose to join organized tours from Queenstown. Rental cars allow the most flexibility to explore the park’s extensive road network and sights.
Where to Stay
A variety of accommodation options cater to all budgets and styles in Fiordland National Park. Te Anau township offers the most choices.
Hotels
Hotels like Distinction Luxmore in Te Anau provide comfortable, upscale rooms. Most hotels include restaurants or bars. Smaller hotels also dot Milford Sound, though largely catering to tour groups.
Lodges
Lodges offer a personal hospitality experience. Many are located near major hikes like the Kepler Track, providing shuttles and meals for hikers. Luxury options like Fiordland Lodge have impressive views.
Campgrounds
Campgrounds and holiday parks allow camping and campervan stays. These range from powered grounds to more basic tent sites. DOC operates primitive backcountry campsites along the hiking tracks as well. Book the Great Walks campsites well in advance.
Dining Options
Te Anau has the largest concentration of restaurants and cafes. Try modern cuisine at Redcliff Cafe or a hearty meal at Miles Better Pies. Sandfly Cafe offers lakeside dining with gluten-free and vegetarian options. In Milford Sound, cruise lunch packages or the Milford Sound Lodge provide scenic fiord views. Numerous pubs and restaurants also dot the small towns around the park. Stock up on groceries and trail snacks in Te Anau before venturing further into the park.
Safety Tips
Fiordland’s unpredictable and harsh climate requires extra safety precautions:
- Check current weather forecasts and plan accordingly
- Pack warm and waterproof clothing, even in summer
- Stay on marked tracks as steep terrain makes it easy to get lost
- Register your hiking or camping plans with DOC visitor centers
- Avoid travel in heavy rain which risks landslides and flooding
- Beware sandflies and cover exposed skin with repellent
- Allow extra time for scenic drives as the roads are winding and narrow
- Do not feed or disturb wildlife like kea parrots
With proper preparation, you’re sure to have an amazing experience in New Zealand’s crown jewel natural landscape. Fiordland’s beauty will leave you breathless. Let the magic of the fiords cast its spell over you in this remote wonderland.
Conclusion
Fiordland National Park deserves its reputation as one of the most stunning natural places on Earth. Majestic fiords, rugged mountains, pristine rainforest and abundant wildlife come together in this remote corner of New Zealand. Each fiord has its own wild personality and highlights, luring travelers into the heart of its untamed wilderness. The hiking tracks, boat cruises and drives allow you to immerse yourself in Fiordland’s inspiring landscapes. From the cascading waterfalls of Milford Sound to the remote beaches of Doubtful Sound, Fiordland promises memorable adventures for all who enter its spellbinding realm. With an array of activities and sights, as well as excellent accommodation and dining, you’re bound to find magic amidst Fiordland’s enchanting fiords.
FAQs
Q: How do I get to Fiordland National Park?
A: The nearest airports are Invercargill and Queenstown. It’s about a 4-5 hour drive from these hubs to reach Fiordland’s center at Te Anau. Organized tour buses also run here from Queenstown. Rental cars provide the most flexibility.
Q: When is the best time of year to visit Fiordland?
A: The warmer months from November to April are ideal. But experienced hikers visit year-round. Just be prepared with waterproofs and warm layers if going in winter.
Q: What should I pack for a multi-day hike?
A: Sturdy hiking boots, waterproof jacket and pants, gloves, hat, warm layers, torch, map, cooking stove, sleeping bag, tent, first aid kit, and plenty of high-energy trail food. Use specialized backpacking gear to keep your pack as light as possible.
Q: Is it safe to swim in the fiords?
A: No, swimming is not recommended due to the icy water and unpredictable currents and waves that come through the fiords. Take a boat tour for the chance to enjoy the water safely.
Q: What wildlife is found in Fiordland?
A: Look for dolphins, seals, penguins and seabirds along the coast. Forest birds include rare takahe, kiwi and kaka parrots. Deer, chamois and pigs inhabit the valleys. And watch for cheeky kea parrots in the mountains!