Activities in Fiordland National Park
Tracks and walks
There are many short walks in the park. In addition the first part of some of the more extensive track systems (such as the Manapōuri end of the Kepler Track) 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.
Tramper near Luxmore Hut, Kepler Track,
Fiordland National Park
Other activities
Mountaineering
Glaciers remain only in the Darran and Wick Mountains. The Darrans are also renowned for challenging rock routes. These are suitable only for experienced climbers and mountaineers.
Scenic flights
A number of commercial operators offer helicopter, fixed wing and float plane flights out of Te Anau and Milford Sound.
Hunting
In the early 1900s red deer from Britain, wapiti and moose from North America and possums from Australia were liberated around Fiordland. Although no moose are thought to have survived, the wapiti bugle draws hunters from around the world each autumn. Permits to hunt red deer, wapiti and possums can be obtained from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.
Fishing
Al Morrison with fish, Dusky Sound,
Fiordland National Park
The lakes and rivers of Fiordland offer excellent fishing for brown and rainbow trout. Licences must be obtained and the regulations adhered to.
Restrictions on fishing in Fiordland National Park (PDF, 54K)
Fishing licences are obtained from Fish and Game www.fishandgame.org.nz
Special conditions for anglers to fish in Fiordland National Park.
Changes to the fishing regulations for fishing in Fiordland National Park have been made to help prevent the spread of DIDYMO Didymosphenia geminata, an invasive algae into the park.
Any person wanting to fish on Fiordland rivers, with the exception of the Eglinton, Hollyford, Cleddau and Upper Waiau rivers must:
- Hold a current Fishing licence.
- Obtain a "Clean gear Certificate" within 48 hours of the commencement of each trip.
- Carry with them a Didymo Cleaning Kit consisting of bucket and brush, spray bottle, detergent and measuring cup.
- Soak for at least one minute, in a solution of 1 cup of dish washing detergent to 5 litres of water or a solution of 2 % household bleach, all fishing equipment, including boots, waders, lines, lures, landing nets and reels. Rods must be inspected for any dirt wiped clean with a cloth soaked in cleaning solution.
- Carry out the above cleaning process when moving between all waterways.
- Check the latest regulations and conditions when obtaining their Clean Gear Certificate.
Clean Gear Certificates are available from Department of Conservation, Te Anau; Fish and Game, Te Anau; Manapöuri Garage; Outdoor Sports, Te Anau; Borland Lodge, Borland; B and B Sports, Gore; and Tuatapere Service Station, Tuatapere.
back to top