The power of Fiordland’s scenery never fails to enthral travellers. Waterfalls tumble hundreds of metres into massive fiords; ancient rainforest clings impossibly to the mountains; shimmering lakes and granite peaks look the same today as they did a thousand years ago.
Watch the mountains shake off winter and start to warm up for summer. Waterfalls are invigorated and the rainforest comes alive with the scents and sounds of new growth. Marvel at the enthralling scenery. Catch a scenic flight or enjoy lake and fiord cruises. Hikers are spoilt for choice with three of New Zealand’s great walks - the Routeburn, Milford and Kepler tracks. Changeable weather and frequent showers are all part of the vibrant mix at this time of year.
The power of Fiordland’s scenery never fails to enthral travellers. Waterfalls tumble hundreds of metres into massive fiords; ancient rainforest clings impossibly to the mountains; shimmering lakes and granite peaks look the same today as they did a thousand years ago.
Browse our collection of images to see what the region has to offer:
The eighth wonder of the world
Fiordland was well known to Maori, who have many legends recounting its formation
and naming. Demi-god Tute Rakiwhanoa is said to have carved the rugged landscape
from formless rock, hewing out the steep sided valleys with his adzes.
From the lakeside townships of Te Anau and Manapouri, you can experience Fiordland
in the way that suits your travelling style. Adventurers can embark on kayaking
tours of the lakes and fiords; hikers have access to a choice of well known walking
challenges; scenery lovers can catch a scenic flight or enjoy lake and fiord cruises;
divers can discover rare black corals growing just beneath the water’s surface.
Key Features
Magnificent Milford Sound Described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’ Milford Sound
is always spectacular. Feel the mist of the waterfalls, look for seals on the
rocks and marvel at the steep sides of the fiord.
The deepest fiord At 421 metres, Doubtful Sound is the deepest of New Zealand’s fiords. It’s a
haven for nature, with resident bottlenose dolphins, fur seals and penguins. Kayak
tours and eco-cruises reveal the mysteries of the fiord.
Wonderful walks Three of New Zealand’s ‘great walks’ are found in Fiordland - the Routeburn,
Milford and Kepler tracks. For those with less time, a range of short walks lets
you dip into the wilderness for a few hours.
Key Tips
Scheduled daily coach services link Queenstown, Dunedin and Invercargill to Te
Anau township.
Air Fiordland operate scenic flights and charter
services from Te Anau airport. Wings and Water are based on the Te Anau Lakefront and offer float plane services.
The extreme geography of the region means that weather can be unpredictable.
When travelling, be prepared for sudden changes.
The Homer Tunnel is a highlight of the road to Milford Sound. It was carved from
solid rock.
MEMORY: Submitted by Jo-Anne Thomson from Canada
"
I consider myself one of the luckiest people in the world...I had the opportunity to walk the Milford Track!
"
Fiordland National Park Towering, snow-capped peaks reflect in the midnight blue fingers of ocean that reach into the park's thickly forested interior.
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Rejuvenation Renew your acquaintance with our planet's amazing natural beauty.
A sea level view of Doubtful Sound, a New Zealand landmark.
Summer is definitely “the busy season” for Fiordland. You’ll need to book accommodation and activities in advance. If you’re planning to self drive into Milford Sound, hit the highway early to avoid the crowds.
If you’d prefer not to drive, join a guided tour that will take you to excellent short walks and scenic highlights on the way to Milford. Long twilights mean you can pack a lot into the day. When you get back to Te Anau or Manapouri, enjoy a late evening lakeside stroll.
