Fiordland Information

Fiordland - "The Eighth Wonder of The World" (Rudyard Kipling)

In keeping with its individual nature, the name 'Fiordland' was adapted from the Scandinavian word 'fjord', emphasising the area's uniqueness. It is a wild, untamed landscape; nature at its best. A world heritage site on the southwestern tip of the South Island, the majesty of Fiordland’s scenery is truly breathtaking and it's no surprise that writers like Kipling were inspired by its beauty.

While here, you can visit Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound; be seduced by the commanding Southern Alps; and marvel at the numerous waterfalls and rich, unyielding rainforest that, all in all, will make you feel like you're in another world. Lovers of the great outdoors will be spoiled for choice in Fiordland. Watch the world go by on a kayaking tour, fly over the snow-capped mountains, or cruise up and down the lakes and fiords. And don't be content to stay above water – try diving below to try and find the rare, black corals unique to the area.

Te Anau is the nearest town to Milford Sound (2 hours drive), and is the obvious place to make 'base camp' while exploring Fiordland. The town has plenty of accommodation, cafes and restaurants, shopping and ATM's. From here, you can catch a coach to Lake Manapouri; the departure point for tours to Doubtful Sound.

Milford Sound

Named after the Welsh town of Milford Haven, Milford Sound is often judged to be New Zealand's most popular tourist destination. Deep fiords and sheer cliffs give the place an 'otherworldly' quality and you'll need your camera ready when you see the spectacular Lady Bowen and Stirling waterfalls.

From the main wharf on the Sound, you can take a two-hour cruise, with guides who will ensure you don't miss a single thing. With so much to see, it's easy to be overwhelmed. Dolphins, penguins and seals are commonplace, and the very lucky amongst you may even see some whales.

See if you can spot 'The Elephant' and 'The Lion'; two giant, sheer peaks, then prepare to be amazed by the regal Mitre Peak, which sits on the shore of the Sound. A mile high, the mountain is one of the most photographed places in New Zealand. Milford Deep Underwater Observatory, at Harrison Cove, lets visitors descend 30ft into a viewing chamber, from where you can observe sponges, anemones and fish in their natural environment, from just one metre away.

Milford Sound is the area's only fiord that can be reached by road and takes at least two hours (without stopping) to drive there from Te Anau. On such a stunning route, though, it would be wasteful not to build at least a couple more hours into your journey, and stop off at some of the many viewing points along the way to really appreciate the magic of what's around you. There are also short walks you can take – who knows what you'll find around each corner?

Doubtful Sound

Named by Captain Cook, who was unsure if entry into the area was possible, Doubtful Sound is larger than it's neighbour, though less accessible. Most areas can only be reached by boat (overnight cruises from Pearl Harbour are an attractive option), but it's worth it to see the rich vegetation, dramatic outcrops, gushing waterfalls and quite stunning landscape.

Doubtful Sound is also home to a 70-strong community of bottlenose dolphins – one of the most southernmost colonies in the world. With fur seals, blue penguins and the occasional killer whale, a trip to Doubtful Sound promises to be a day not to forget.

The Great Walks

Three of New Zealand's designated 'Great Walks', are situated in Fiordland. The Routeburn Track runs roughly from Queenstown to Te Anau (32km) and is popular with day hikers, who like to 'dip in and out' of different legs of the route. The more adventurous can complete the whole track in three days, stopping at designated huts along the way. The Kepler Track is 60km long, circular, starting and finishing at Lake Te Anau, to where shuttle buses run during summer.

The most famous Great Walk is the Milford Track, which stretches from Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound. Because of its popularity, the track is heavily regulated, especially during summer (number of walkers is limited), and independent camping is not permitted. It is advisable to book your place on the Milford Track walk well in advance. All Great Walks can be undertaken either independently or with a guide.

Five Things To Do

1. Take a Milford Sound cruise to see Mitre Peak

2. Indulge in an overnight Doubtful Sound cruise

3. 'Swim with the fishes' at the Milford Deep Underwater Observatory

4. Book a scenic flight for a birds-eye view of Fiordland National Park

5. Go 'tramping' along one of the Great Walks

Fiordland Virtual Tours

Getting There

Many visitors will book scheduled coach excursions to Fiordland, usually from Queenstown, although there are also trips that run from Invercargill. Those that opt to drive themselves, usually head for Te Anau or Manapouri, and then book with tour operators to get them to Milford and Doubtful Sounds or the other fjords. Fiordland Scenic flights can be booked from Queenstown and Te Anau.

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