Fiordland National Park

Visiting

Milford Sound is a drive of about two hours each way and a cruise of 1.5 to 2 hours, with sailings all day and the crowds to match. A Doubtful Sound trip from Manapouri takes 7 to 8 hours with its transfers, and on the water you may see few other boats. With one day for a fiord, pick Milford for ease or Doubtful Sound for quiet.

Three Great Walks start within reach of Te Anau. The Kepler sets off along the lakeshore near town, the Milford Track is walked in one direction over four days, and the Routeburn finishes at The Divide on the Milford Road. Book their huts well in advance for the November to April season.

Do not cancel a Milford day for rain. The park can take up to 9,000 mm a year, and after a downpour new waterfalls run down the rock walls beyond the Homer Tunnel. Sandflies bite hardest at sea level in summer, so wear long sleeves at the fiord and at the track ends.

From June to November every vehicle on the road must carry snow chains, and in winter the road can be icy in the shade. Snow, avalanche risk or slips after heavy rain can close it, so leave a spare day in your plans. In winter, set off from 9am, and if winter driving worries you, take the bus.