Destination Fiordland

Fiordland has achieved World Heritage status and is renowned as the home of Mitre Peak, Milford and Doubtful Sounds, and for the many Great Walks (the Milford, Routeburn, and Kepler Tracks), within the Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks.

When you travel to Fiordland, you will be visiting one of the most dramatic and beautiful parts of New Zealand.

Travellers Choice Awards		New7Wonders of Nature		The Milford road
Te Anau rates as a top outdoor and adventure destination. Te Anau rated destination number three in the South Pacific with reference to the high quality multi-day walks, jetboating and glowworm caves. Te Anau also rated very highly in the Culture & Sightseeing category coming in sixth behind the likes of Melbourne and Sydney. Fiordland is no stranger to these awards as Milford Sound took out the number one global destination back in 2008.		Official finalist Milford Sound, located within the Fiordland National Park runs 15km inland from the Tasman Sea and is surrounded by sheer rock faces that rise 1,200m or more on either side. Among its most striking features are Mitre Peak, rising 1,692m above the sound, the Elephant at 1,517m, resembling an elephant's head, and Lion Mountain, 1,302m, in the shape of a crouching lion. Lush rain forests cling precariously to these cliffs, while seals, penguins and dolphins populate the water.		The road to MILFORD SOUND is one of the world's finest drives. After leaving Te Anau, visitors follow 119km of sealed road to the majestic Milford Sound. Fiordland’s steep mountain ranges sometimes cause avalanche conditions resulting in road closure if avalanches are likely. Between May and November all travellers must carry car chains at all times. Chains can be hired in Te Anau at any of the local service stations. We recommend visitors travel with experienced local coach operators during winter months as a safe option.


	Fiordland in winter

While visitors need to be prepared for the cold climate, they also need to be prepared for the breathtaking scenery that Fiordland experiences in winter. Crisp, clear air, blue skies and snow capped peaks, spectacular waterfalls and wildlife all combine to make winter a great experience in Fiordland.

Whether you are taking a day’s break from skiing the slopes in Queenstown or Wanaka, or just enjoying some sightseeing outside of the busy summer season, be sure to allow plenty of time for travelling, and check road conditions before you leave.
Winter road conditions can double the standard driving time.
Better still allow local operators to show you around this winter wonderland that they know so well.

Destination Fiordland
photographic competition
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