One of the southern hemisphere’s great wilderness regions and the home of Mitre Peak and the awe-inspiring fiords of Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri, Fiordland has World Heritage status for its natural scenery and exceptional beauty.
Numerous short walks and multi-day hiking trails, including three New Zealand Great Walks, the Milford, Routeburn, and Kepler Tracks, have earned Fiordland the reputation as one of the world’s finest walking destinations. Te Anau, on the shores of the South Island’s largest lake, is the gateway to Fiordland and provides a perfect base to explore the area.
Home to Mitre Peak, and stunning fiords, Fiordland is known as the sightseeing and walking capital of the world.
- Hike the Milford Track.
- Cruise overnight on Doubtful Sound.
- Watch the short film Ata Whenua at the Fiordland Cinema.
- Drive the Milford Highway from Te Anau – one of the world’s most scenic drives
- Check out the magical underground world of the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves.
Fiordland Seasons
Spring - Sept to Nov
70 - 170
The region shakes off Winter. Changeable weather and frequent showers reinvigorate
waterfalls and the rainforest comes alive with the smells and sounds of new growth. Be
prepared for unsettled weather.
Summer - Dec to Feb
120 - 280
Enjoy Fiordland’s long summer twilights. Daytime temperatures vary between 20-23 degrees Celsius. However even in the height of summer, you should be prepared
for a range of weather conditions.
Autumn - Mar to May
150 - 210
Autumn is a great time to visit to avoid the crowds and explore the National Park and walking tracks, and Fiordland’s native evergreen forests outside of the busy peak season.
Winter - Jun to Aug
60 - 120
Fiordland is breath taking in winter, with stable weather, crisp, clear blue skies and
snow-capped peaks. Explore this winter wonderland with local experts and allow plenty
of time for traveling with wintery road conditions.
View the Southern Scenic Route Itinerary
