Whether
you go to walk the famous routes, kayak or
cruise across the water of the fiords or
take a flight over the dramatic scenery,
a trip to the Fiordlands is definitely one
of our highest recommendations – a holiday
in New Zealand is almost incomplete without
it! Where else in the world can you kayak
past such stunning scenery, waterfalls and
unique wildlife, dolphins swimming by your
boat and the only sound the splashing of
the water? The region is unlike anything
you’ll have seen before – and once you have
been there, it’s hard not to fall in love
with it! ... The
Fiordlands Website Here
The Firodlands really are magical, and arguably the
most beautiful parts of New Zealand. The stunning
scenery has given this area its reputation as a
“must see” for travellers to New Zealand.
In 1986 the Fiordland’s extraordinary beauty was
acknowledged when it was made a World Heritage area,
and described as having 'superlative natural phenomena'
and 'outstanding examples of... the earth's evolutionary
history'.
"For thousands
of feet upwards the eye looks upon straight
cut rocky frontages, not worn smooth
by time, or by wind or water, but as
sharply defined and as fresh looking
in all respects as if riven asunder but
yesterday by the stupendous wedges of
Titanic Masons."
James Hingston 1883
The Maori explained the creation of the fiords to
Tute Rakiwhanoa – a “titanic mason”” who carved the
steep sided valleys. This seemed to be the only explanation
– it is impossible to imagine the size of the geological
events that created the peaks and plunging cliffs.
The adventure starts in the pretty town of Te Anau,
from where it is two hours drive to Milford Sound
or 20 minutes to Lake Manapouri – the start of a
Doubtful Sound trip.
Milford Sound
Home
to Mitre Peak – the most photographed peak in the
Southern Hemisphere – Milford Sound is breathtaking
whatever the weather. Sun highlights the towering
peak; rain brings gushing waterfalls, or misty days
give the area an incredibly dramatic atmosphere.
The road itself is often overlooked - a wonderful
journey through spectacular scenery of mountains,
rain forest and lakes. Along the way there are many
short walks and viewing points to stop and take pictures,
or just admire the views!
Doubtful Sound
Known
as the “Sound of Silence”, Doubtful will leave you
uplifted by its atmosphere of solitude. In contrast
to Milford, there is a cloistered serenity about
the area, which is rich in flora and fauna such as
seals and penguins.
Doubtful is long and winding, 40.4 kilometres from
the Deep Cove to the ocean, home to several outstanding
waterfalls and the deepest of the fiords - 421 metres!
You can swim, snorkel and even dive in the Sound
amongst the seals and dolphins!
A cherished corner of the world where mountains and
valleys compete with each other for room, where scale
is almost beyond comprehension, rainfall is measured
in metres and scenery encompasses the broadest width
of emotions'. This is how the author of the book "Mountains
of Water - The Story of Fiordland National Park" described
Fiordland
Lake Manapouri
The
second deepest lake in New Zealand, and often described as the “loveliest”
with its majestic back drop of the Cathedral Mountain range, 33
small islands and many sandy coves. As well as being the starting
point for trips to Doubtful, Manapouri is also popular for the variety
of short and overnight walks on the Manapouri track. Start by hiring
a rowboat or taking a water taxi across the river to the start of
the track, then take in the amazing bird life and stunning views.
Kayaking is a wonderful way to explore the bays and
coves, or try your hand at trolling the lake and
catching a fish!
Fiordland
Activities
Fishing
Kayaking
Cruises
Scenic Flights
Glowworm Caves – a magical experience! Cruise across
Lake Te Anau, then accompanied by a guide explore
the underground caves, and prepare to be overwhelmed.
Follow the amazing sculpture carved out by the water,
before you glide silently into the glowworm grotto…
The incandescent glow that meets you is that of thousands
of glowworms – truly amazing.
Home
to Mitre Peak – the most photographed peak in the
Southern Hemisphere – Milford Sound is breathtaking
whatever the weather. Sun highlights the towering
peak; rain brings gushing waterfalls, or misty days
give the area an incredibly dramatic atmosphere. 
Known
as the “Sound of Silence”, Doubtful will leave you
uplifted by its atmosphere of solitude. In contrast
to Milford, there is a cloistered serenity about
the area, which is rich in flora and fauna such as
seals and penguins.
The
second deepest lake in New Zealand, and often described as the “loveliest”
with its majestic back drop of the Cathedral Mountain range, 33
small islands and many sandy coves. As well as being the starting
point for trips to Doubtful, Manapouri is also popular for the variety
of short and overnight walks on the Manapouri track. Start by hiring
a rowboat or taking a water taxi across the river to the start of
the track, then take in the amazing bird life and stunning views.