Fiordland National Park, Southland NZ: What to See & Do

Tucked away in the remote southwest corner of Southland, Fiordland National Park feels like a place shaped by ancient forces—carved by glaciers, wrapped in mist, and overflowing with waterfalls that appear and disappear with the rain. It’s one of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes and a destination that leaves visitors in awe long after they've left.

If you’re planning a journey through Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound, here’s a guide to help you explore the very best of this breathtaking region.

Why Fiordland Steals the Spotlight

There’s a reason travellers from around the world make the pilgrimage to this corner of Aotearoa. Fiordland is vast, untouched, and almost mythical in appearance. Towering granite peaks rise straight from deep fjords, ancient rainforests blanket the valleys, and wildlife thrives in its isolation.

A few highlights that define the park:

• Glacier-carved fjords, including the famous Milford Sound
• Great Walks such as the Milford, Kepler, and Routeburn Tracks
• Wildlife encounters with dolphins, seals, penguins, and cheeky alpine parrots (Kea)
• Stunning lakes and waterfalls that seem to change with every shift of weather

Milford Sound: The Heart of Fiordland

No matter how many times you’ve seen photos of Milford Sound New Zealand, nothing prepares you for the moment you first see it in person. Mitre Peak rises sharply from the water, clouds roll along the mountain tops, and the entire scene feels like nature’s grand theatre.

Why you need to take a Milford Sound cruise

A Milford Sound cruise is easily the best way to experience the fjord. Boats glide close enough to waterfalls that you can feel the mist on your face, and it’s common to spot seals sunning themselves on rocks or dolphins playing in the wake. Rainy days bring even more magic, hundreds of temporary waterfalls appear, giving the fjord an entirely new personality.

For those seeking something quieter, kayaking tours offer an intimate way to explore hidden coves and get even closer to the water.

Walks and Hikes Worth Planning Around

Fiordland is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that are as varied as they are beautiful. Whether you want a leisurely stroll or a multiday adventure, there’s something for every pace and fitness level.

Milford Track

Often called the “finest walk in the world,” this track takes you through lush valleys, across alpine passes, and past the thunderous Sutherland Falls.

Kepler Track

A loop track offering a bit of everything, alpine ridges, forest floors, and sweeping lake views.

Routeburn Track

A spectacular journey that links Fiordland with Mount Aspiring National Park, showcasing some of the South Island’s most iconic scenery.

The Milford Road: A Scenic Journey in Itself

Getting to Milford Sound is half the adventure. The Milford Road (SH94) is one of the most beautiful drives in New Zealand. Think reflective lakes at dawn, dramatic valleys, and the eerie anticipation of driving through the Homer Tunnel before the landscape opens into the fjord.

Some favourite stops along the way include:

• Mirror Lakes
• Hollyford Valley viewpoints
• The stunning Eglinton Valley

Te Anau: Your Home Base for Exploration

The lakeside town of Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland and the perfect base for planning your adventures. It offers a peaceful atmosphere, local cafés, and access to activities like:

• Te Anau Glowworm Caves
• Lake Te Anau cruises
• Nature and wildlife encounters

Beyond Milford: Other Fjords to Discover

While Milford Sound draws the biggest crowds, Fiordland has more remote fjords worth exploring. Doubtful Sound, often described as the “sound of silence,” is quieter and more expansive. For true wilderness, Dusky Sound and Breaksea Sound are accessible via expedition-style cruises.

Tips for Visiting Fiordland National Park

• Book your Milford Sound cruise in advance, especially in peak season
• Pack warm layers and waterproof clothing (weather changes fast)
• Drive the Milford Road carefully and allow extra travel time
• Slow down and absorb the scenery; Fiordland rewards those who linger