Fiordland National Park is a playground of adventure and awe-inspiring scenery. Located in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island, it is the largest National Park in the country. Home to wonders like Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, Fiordland National Park is full of incredible scenes that will stick with you for a lifetime, and make for some fantastic journeys and stories. The area is known to experience a great deal of rainfall (it rains on over 200 days of the year!) so be prepared, and enjoy what is guaranteed to be a highlight of your New Zealand trip!
1. Piopiotahi/Milford Sound
Milford Sound is arguably the most popular place to visit in Fiordland National Park. It’s dubbed as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’ and with dramatic mountains and dreamy waters, it’s easy to understand why this location is so treasured. Milford Sound is a fiord, 2 hours drive from Te Anau. Often explored from the shore or by day cruise, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
2. Doubtful Sound
Doubtful Sound is another fiord in the Fiordland National Park. A visit to Doubtful Sound is a real adventure, starting with a cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a coach, and then into the Sound. Pinch yourself when you’re in the heart of this utterly peaceful place. Home to dolphins, New Zealand fur seals and penguins – you’re in for a treat!
3. Mirror Lakes
Mirror Lakes are true to their name, offering a picture-perfect mirror image of their backdrop when the water is still. You’ll find this spot as you head from Te Anau, down the Milford Road. Pull over and enjoy the short 5-minute walk along the well-established boardwalk. It’s a great chance to stretch your legs, mid road trip!
4. Lake Gunn
Lake Gunn is also along the Milford Road, about 40 minutes from Milford Sound. Drive to the foot of the lake and relax lakeside, enjoying still waters and impressive, towering mountains. If you’re up for a bit more adventure, check out the Lake Gunn nature walk, a 45-minute loop track. Either way, you’re in for some stunning scenery that brings about a feeling of serenity.
5. Scenic Flight
You can explore Fiordland National Park by many means, including a flight on a fixed-wing plane! If your budget allows for it, a scenic flight is an absolutely incredible way to see the sights in this National Park. Fly over Milford Sound and out to the West Coast and their rugged beaches on the brink of the Tasman Sea. Enjoy all of the glaciers, alpine lakes and winding rivers in valleys that can only be seen from above.
6. Milford Track
The Milford Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, taking you on a journey through superb and iconic scenery. Find yourself discovering valleys carved by glaciers and hidden waterfalls. This is a 4-day walk through Fiordland National Park, with huts to stay in each night. The best time of year to walk this track is usually between October and April.
7. Kepler Track
The Kepler Track is another Great Walk of New Zealand that begins in Te Anau. It’s a 3-4 day walk and a 60km loop, winding through the alpine wilderness. Encounter vast, tussock-covered ridgelines and exposed, sweeping views of the landscape. The best time of year to walk this track is also usually between October and April.
8. Kayaking
Kayaking in Fiordland National Park brings a new meaning to the activity. Kayak alongside New Zealand’s most famous fiords, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Paddle in glassy, peaceful waters or under powerful waterfalls. Pause to take the scenery in, and feel very small amongst the incredible mountains that surround you.
9. Lake Marian
Pull over, off the Milford Road near the Hollyford Road and check out the Lake Marian Track. Lake Marian is a beautiful alpine lake in Fiordland National Park. Walk the 3-hour return track to the lake for some incredible views of towering mountains against the often calm, clear lake. The track begins with a swingbridge and continues over a well-established path alongside picturesque waterfalls. The track then steepens as you climb towards the lake. Being Fiordland, track conditions can be muddy and wet so as always, be prepared.
10. Eglinton Valley
When travelling along the Milford Road you are sheltered by dense beech forest, with lush greenery everywhere you turn. As the road begins to follow the Eglinton River it opens up to the vast, exposed Eglinton Valley. The valley floor is covered in golden tussocks. Huge, steep mountains line the valley that was carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. This is a great time to stop for some fresh mountain air and take some photos!
Check out our list of The Top 5 Things to Do in Aoraki Mt Cook.
