In Fiordland you’ll explore a place where legends and myths mingle with the overwhelming presence of an awe-inspiring landscape – one that features endless green rainforest and tranquil fiords punctuated by massive waterfalls. Fiordland is a region that will fulfil all your fantasies of a pristine wilderness.

Around the Fiordland Region

Fiordland is a dramatic landscape carved thousands of years ago as glacial rivers ground valleys through granite mountains. One of the largest national parks in the world, Fiordland is also part of the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area in recognition of its precious status.

Regional Destinations

Milford Sound Beautiful Milford Sound is a destination that has any visitor reaching for superlatives. A magnificent fiord surrounded by sheer cliffs clad in green rainforest and punctuated by waterfalls when it rains, this is a place where the landscape is the main attraction. Even the journey to get here is an unforgettable experience. Milford Sound is the only one of the fiords accessible by road, and the Milford Road is a spectacular highway. There is only very limited accommodation so, unless joining an overnight boat cruise or multi-day hiking adventure, most visitors explore the area on day trips from Queenstown or Te Anau. 

Te Anau Regional centre and base for exploring Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park.

Manapouri Tiny Manapouri is the departure point for trips to Doubtful Sound. Fishing and kayaking on Lake Manapouri are also popular. Amenities in Manapouri include cafés, a restaurant and some accommodation. With no road access, Doubtful Sound does not have as many visitors – this serene and beautiful fiord can be explored by kayak or on a boat cruise.

Highlights

Relax and enjoy a guided coach and boat tour to Milford Sound. Take a hike in the spectacular wilderness of Fiordland National Park. Go fishing for trout in the quiet waters at Manapouri. Visit the West Arm Underground Power Station. Cruise across Lake Te Anau to see the glow-worm caves. Kayak in the serene surroundings of Doubtful Sound.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is New Zealand’s largest (and one of the world’s larger national parks) and contains several very popular hiking trails including the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn tracks, all three of which are amongst the country’s selection of 10 Great Walks. The Milford Track passes by the spectacular Sutherland Falls, one of the world’s highest at 581 metres.