Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Fiordland & Southland
Why Go?
Welcome to scenery that travellers dream of and cameras fail to do justice.
To the west is Fiordland National Park, with jagged misty peaks, glistening lakes, and a
remote and pristine stillness. Enter this beautiful isolation via the world-famous Milford
Track, just one of many trails that meander through densely forested, glacier-sculptured
valleys confined by mighty mountain ranges. Fiordland is also home to Milford and Doubt-
ful Sounds, where verdant cliffs soar almost vertically from deep, indigo waters. Both
fiords are relatively easy to reach and explore by road, boat or kayak.
In Southland's east, a sharp turn off the beaten track leads through the peaceful Catlins,
where waterfalls cascade through lush forest and diverse wildlife congregates around a
rugged, beautiful coastline.
And then there's the end of the line - Stewart Island/Rakiura, an isolated isle home to
friendly seafarers and a flock of beautiful rare birds including New Zealand's beloved icon,
the kiwi.
When to Go
»
Visit from December to April for the best chance of settled weather amid Fiordland's no-
toriously fickle climate (although chances are, you'll still see rain!).
»
Late October to late April is the Great Walks season for the Milford, Kepler, Routeburn
and Rakiura Tracks, so you'll need to book in advance if you want to hike these popular
tracks.
»
Stewart Island/Rakiura's changeable weather can bring four seasons in one day, at any
time of year, although the temperature is milder than you'd expect, with winter averaging
around 10°C and summer 16.5°C.
Best Places to Eat
»
Redcliff Cafe (
Click here
)
»
Miles Better Pies (
Click here
)
