Discover Fiordland
It’s time to explore your southern backyard. People flock to Fiordland for its famous natural icons like Piopiotahi Milford Sound and the Great Walks, but beyond is a slice of cultural, geological and scenic paradise.
Milford Sound: The eighth wonder of the world
Carved by glaciers during the ice ages, Piopiotahi Milford Sound is the crown jewel of Fiordland and one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. Breathtaking in any weather, this dramatic fiord is the only one in Aotearoa accessible by road – a journey that winds through alpine landscapes and lush rainforest. Forest-clad cliffs rise steeply from inky waters, waterfalls tumble from heights of up to 1000 metres, and towering peaks pierce the sky.
Must-see: Mitre Peak, which soars 1700 metres straight from the sea.
Must-do: Scenic boat cruises offer an easy and awe-inspiring way to explore the fiord, while sea kayaking, diving, and flightseeing provide unforgettable perspectives for those seeking a little more adventure.
No doubt about it: Doubtful Sound:
Sometimes called ‘The Sound of Silence’, Doubtful Sound (Patea) is the deepest of Fiordland’s 14 fiords and the second longest, with three distinct ‘arms’, numerous small islands and several outstanding waterfalls.
Must-see: As well as its spectacular scenery, the fiord is also home to a wide variety of fauna, including one of the southernmost populations of
bottlenose dolphins.
Must-do: Depart from Manapōuri, the nearest inhabited town, on an excursion to Doubtful Sound with a boat journey across Lake Manapōuri, followed by a bus trip on the gravel road across Wilmot Pass to the Sound, where tour boats berth at a small wharf in Deep Cove.
Trek from Te Anau
Wander the town, dine at the local bars and eateries, and enjoy the exciting attractions. But beyond its charming, laid-back energy and seaside serenity, Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland’s finest walking destinations. The key drawcards are the spectacular multi-day Milford, Kepler, Routeburn, and Hollyford tracks (the first three are also New Zealand Great Walks). Aside from these well-known hikes, dozens of popular shorter day walks and challenging lesser-known tracks and routes offer awe-inspiring experiences for families and expert trampers alike.
Must-see: Between the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary and the iconic glow worm caves, to a simple bike and brunch or jet boat journey around the lake, this town is small but mighty and filled with ways to fill up a day.
Must-do: Base yourself in Te Anau and use the Hike Fiordland Passport (available at various accommodation providers and activities in Te Anau and across Murihiku Southland) to guide you to some of the best day walks around, experiencing a taste of the Great Walks nearby. Stay a week and complete them all, or tick off a few more with each visit.
