Overview
Fiordland National Park is a stunning wilderness area known for its fjords, waterfalls, and rugged landscapes. It's part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site and offers incredible hiking and boat tours.
It's one of the most iconic and ecologically diverse national parks in New Zealand.
Location
Address
Southland
Neighborhood: Fiordland
Coordinates
-45.433300, 167.166700
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
October-March
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to cool
- • lush greenery
- • waterfalls
summer
warm and dry
- • long daylight hours
- • warm weather
autumn
cooler, crisp air
- • fall colors
- • clear skies
winter
cold and rainy
- • snow-covered landscapes
- • peaceful atmosphere
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead for popular hikes
- Check weather conditions
- Bring appropriate gear
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate to high
- • altitude sickness on some trails
- • slippery paths
Medical facilities: limited, nearest hospital in Te Anau
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, layered clothing, sturdy footwear, hiking boots, inappropriate clothing for hiking
Booking Tips
- • 3-6 months for popular trails
- • DOCOfficial website
- • flexible, check specific tour operator
- • available for some tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Fiordland NP Guide
Size: 30 MB
Features: trail maps, weather updates, audio guides
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: visitor centers, lodges
Charging Stations: visitor centers
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Queenstown Airport
Distance: 180 km
Travel Time: 2.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: pristine wilderness, rich Maori history
Historical Significance: ancient Maori settlement, significant to Ngai Tahu iwi
Insider Tips
- Visit less-known Kepler Track
- Best views from Routeburn Track
Local Recommendations
- • Try local greenstone jewelry
- • Ask rangers for trail advice
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Maori, other languages depending on guide
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Mirror Lakes
Best Time: sunset
Tips: reflection shots
Result: stunning reflection photography
Milford Sound
Best Time: sunrise
Tips: wide-angle
Result: iconic fjord views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Distance: 10 km
Walking: none
Type: Caves
Eglinton Valley
Distance: 5 km
Walking: 1 hour
Type: Valley
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book boat tours early"
- "Visit Milford Sound"
- "Hike the Routeburn Track"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
65
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$8