Fiordland National Park

Less than 15,000 years ago this region was locked in thick ice. Glaciers sculpted the land on a larger than life scale, gouging out long, narrow lakes, carving out coastal fiords, and shearing high mountain valleys. Captain James Cook sailed along the coast in 1770 and returned here in 1773, putting in at several fiords and anchoring at Dusky Sound for rest and ship repair.

The best of Fiordland lies off the roads, to be experienced in solitude, on foot or by boat. The region's appeal is not only in its awesome beauty but also in its isolation and challenging terrain.

Park headquarters is in the town of Te Anau; the visitor center is open daily. Permits for backpackers planning an independent trek on the Milford Track are available here.

At the visitor center you'll learn about park wildlife, accessible attractions, and current activities. Nature programs are scheduled in summer. You can also get current information here on road, trail, and weather conditions.