Fiordland, in southwest New Zealand, is a place where legends and myths mingle with the overwhelming reality of an awe-inspiring landscape of forest and fiords.
This dramatic land of rivers, lakes, mountains and forests was carved thousands of years ago as glacial rivers ground valleys out of granite mountains. Today, water still dominates the landscape as abundant rainfall feeds spectacular waterfalls, tumbling rivers and precious bogmires that contain unique and endangered flora and fauna. One of the largest national parks in the world, Fiordland is also part of the Southwest World Heritage Area. At its best known and most accessible around Milford Sound, you’ll be enthralled by the immense landscape as you travel from Te Anau, through glacial carved valleys, to the deep waters of Milford Sound and unforgettable Mitre Peak.
DESTINATION-NZ.COM HIGHLIGHTS
Gasp in astonishment at soaring forest-clad cliffs and roaring waterfalls as you cruise the waters of Milford Sound – this is one of New Zealand’s top tourist attractions! Hoist your pack onto your back and hit the trail – hiking the Milford Track in Fiordland National Park is a must-do for any visitor to New Zealand. Enjoy the comforts of civilisation in the heart of the wilderness at Te Anau – a lovely resort village offering excellent restaurants, shopping and accommodation on the shores of Lake Te Anau (the largest lake in the South Island).
NOTABLE CULTURE
Lake Manapouri was called Roto-ua (‘The Rainy Lake’) by early Maori.
MOMENT IN HISTORY
Milford Sound was inaccessible by road until the Homer Tunnel was completed in 1953. The tunnel took more than 20 years to complete; it is 945 metres above sea level and 1.2 kilometres long.
THE ICONIC EXPERIENCE
Photograph one of New Zealand’s most recognisable icons, Mitre Peak, on the south shore of Milford Sound. The best angle for capturing the peak is from the Milford Hotel at the head of the Sound.
Plan your trip with a detailed map of this region and peruse our suggested travel itinerary. Read More
Sights, activities and top picks to make planning easier. Read More
Regional centre, base for discovering Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park.
Manapouri
Departure point for cruises on Lake Manapouri and Doubtful Sound.
Transport
By Air
The closest domestic airports with scheduled services are Queenstown and Invercargill. Queenstown Airport has domestic flights and a trans-Tasman service. Invercargill Airport provides domestic flights only. Chartered flights are able to land at Te Anau/Manapouri airport and there are occasional seats available on DC3 or Convair aircraft operated by Pioneer. Air Fiordland, Air Milford, Wings n Water and various helicopter operators also offer charter connections between Queenstown and Te Anau.
By Road
Te Anau is located on State Highway 94. It is 2 hours, 30 minutes from Queenstown and 2 hours from Invercargill. Regular coach services operate to and from the region. Within the region it is a two-hour, 30 minute drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound. A guided tour is an ideal way of ensuring you get the most out of this very special region – leaving you free to absorb the stunning scenery.
i-SITE Visitor Centres
Fiordland
Fiordland Lakefront Drive, Te Anau t: +64 3 249 8900.
