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Fiordland is situated on the scenic south-western corner of the South Island of New
Zealand. Most of this area is covered by Fiordland National Park, the largest
national park in the country, a huge area of 12,120 square kilometres.
The name "Fiordland" comes from the now-common variant of the Norwegian word "fjord". Fiordland features a number of fiords, of which Milford Sound is the best known.
Situated within Fiordland are Browne Falls and Sutherland Falls, which rank among the tallest waterfalls in the world. Tourist boats actually poke their bows into some of the waterfalls in Miford Sound.
There are many short walks in the park including the first part of some of the more extensive track systems (such as the Manapouri end of the Kepler Track) which make enjoyable short walks or day trips.
While most people know about the famous Milford Track (dubbed 'the Finest walk in the World') there are many other options for longer trips into the backcountry: the Kepler and the Hollyford Tracks for example, or the Routeburn which crosses the boundary between Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks.
In summer, most of these walks can be undertaken by people with average fitness and experience. In winter, tracks into alpine areas become more difficult and even impassable, and are recommended only for experienced trampers and climbers. It is possible to take a guided walk on the Milford, Hollyford, Routeburn, and Hump Ridge Tracks.
Original versions of our photos can be purchased & web versions can be shared subject to conditions.