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Lake Gunn
Natural Park

Lake Gunn

New Zealand
4.7
(850 reviews)
19
Tours Available
Free
Adult Entry
4-5 hours
Recommended Duration
November-March
Best Time

Overview

Lake Gunn is a serene and picturesque glacially formed lake nestled in the heart of Fiordland National Park. It is known for its pristine waters and surrounding native forests, offering a tranquil escape into nature.

Lake Gunn is part of the larger Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Lake Hiking Wildlife

Location

Address

Southland, New Zealand

Neighborhood: Fiordland National Park

Coordinates

-45.433300, 167.166700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults
Free
Children
Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November-March

Best Time of Day

Early morning

calm waters and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
2 hours
Recommended
4-5 hours
Full Experience
full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

  • • wildflowers
  • • birdwatching

summer

warm

  • • long daylight hours
  • • warm water

autumn

cool

  • • fall colors
  • • clear skies

winter

cold

  • • snow-capped mountains
  • • peaceful atmosphere

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Book guided tours in advance
  • Bring insect repellent
  • Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID water hiking boots

recommended

camera binoculars snacks

seasonal

warm jacket rain gear

not allowed

drones pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

  • • uneven terrain
  • • changeable weather

Medical facilities: first aid available at visitor center

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Typical Costs

entry $0
parking $5
guided tour $50
kayak rental $30

Dress Code

casual, weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, hat, hiking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

  • • 4 weeks
  • • official website
  • • 48 hours
  • • available for guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Fiordland National Park App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Trail information, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Invercargill Airport

Distance: 150 km

Travel Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

car rental
$60 1 hour 45 min
shuttle
$40 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

walking
$0 1 hour
taxi
$15 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Pristine nature, tranquility

Historical Significance: Part of the ancient Fiordland landscape

Insider Tips

  • Early morning for wildlife spotting
  • Best views from western shore

Local Recommendations

  • • Visit the nearby Te Anau Glowworm Caves
  • • Try local seafood at Te Anau

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia ora
thank_you Kia ora
where_is Kei hea...?
how_much He aha te utu?
beautiful Māia
ticket Tikiti

Guide Languages: English, Maori, other languages

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Lake viewpoints

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for landscapes

Result: Stunning lake and mountain views

#nature #landscape #NewZealand

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas
prohibited areas none
flash photography allowed
commercial photography permit needed
drone policy restricted, permit required
tripod policy allowed
selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Distance: 2km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Cave

Eglinton Valley

Distance: 5km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Valley

Reviews

4.7

Based on 850 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Book guided tours"
  • "Visit early"
  • "Bring warm layers"

Contact Information

Related Tours & Activities (4)

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Quick Info

Available Tours

19

Rating

4.7 / 5.0

Reviews

850

Adult Entry

Free

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