Fiordland alerts
Updated 28 October 2011
Fiordland National Park
Snow is present in much of the Park. Increased avalanche risk affects both alpine and valley areas of most tracks. Park users should contact the Visitor Centre for latest Avalanche advisory information. Avalanche conditions are highly changeable.
Cold southerly winds expected over the nest few days should see the snow pack lock up, expect glide cracks to be forming and releasing on sun affected slopes. Expect hard ice on tracks in shady areas.
Firewood, which must be collected from near huts, may be wet and should not be relied on to get clothing dry or cook food. Gas cookers should be carried if staying overnight at any hut or campsite in Fiordland.
For your safety, every effort has been made to ensure that this information is correct at the time of writing. However you should contact the local DOC visitor centre for the latest updates.
Hut and campsite fees are payable for all huts and campsites in Fiordland National Park.
Trip intentions should be left either with a friend or family member, or can be left at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre. Remember to update hut books with your arrival and following day's intentions, and to notify the person you left your intentions with of your safe return. This avoids costly searches.
All parties are strongly advised to carry either a Personal Locator Beacon or Mountain Radio. These are available in Te Anau.
Please report any damage to tracks or structures to the nearest DOC office.
Great Walks
Your safety is your responsibility. Make sure you have the skills and the correct equipment to safely walk the track.
Bookings are currently open for the 2011/2012 summer season. Bookings are required for hut and campsite accommodation between 25 October 2011 - 25 April 2012.
Bookings are not required during off peak, winter walking season, payment for accommodation is by Backcountry Hut tickets or Pass.
Milford Track
Open - bookings required
Daily spaces available until 2 November 2011
- Do not linger or stop in areas which have signs stating Avalanche zones.
- Emergency track in use walking down from Mackinnon Pass.
- People should follow Hut Ranger's instructions.
Routeburn Track
Bookings required
- Track closed between Lake Mackenzie and Lake Harris outlet. No helicopters being used due to distance.
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Care is required at the Earland Falls. Do not stop at the Falls and use Emergency bridge.
Kepler Track
Open - bookings required
Daily spaces are available
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Care required around the limestone bluffs.
- Patches of snow between Forest Burn Shelter and Hanging Valley Shelter, care required.
- Do not linger or stop in areas which have signs stating Avalanche zones.
- People should follow Hut Ranger's instructions.
Great Walks Booking Desk
Bookings now open for the above Great Walks. Booking period from 25 October 2011 to 25 April 2012.
Open daily 8.30am - 4.30pm
Ph: +64 3 249 8514
Email: greatwalksbookings@doc.govt.nz
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Major tracks
Your safety is your responsibility. Make sure you have the skills and the correct equipment to safely walk the track. Avalanche risk present.
Hollyford Track
- Expect windfalls and storm damage.
Dusky Track
- Snow present in alpine sections.
- Expect windfalls and storm damage.
- Avalanche risk may be present on alpine passes.
Manapouri Track
- Expect windfalls and storm damage.
George Sound Route
- Expect windfalls and storm damage.
- Snow and ice present.
Hump Ridge Track
Changes to other facilities and services
Te Anau - Manapouri area
- All walks are currently open.
Milford Road short walks
- Lake Marian Track - Care required on parts of the track.
- Gertrude Saddle - Not recommended due to deep snow and avalanche risk.
Milford Road
- Check daily road status before departing Te Anau. www.nzta.govt.nz
- Chains maybe required.
Milford Road campsites
Open but some campsites may become inaccessible due to further snow - check with the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre for updated information.
Mavora Lakes Campsite
Borland Road
Weather Information
New Zealand weather patterns change rapidly. These changes will affect conditions on tracks and routes in Fiordland National Park. Always check the latest weather report (www.metservice.co.nz) before you leave on your trip and be prepared to change your plans if conditions are unfavourable.
Fire restrictions
A Restricted Fire Season is now in place Southland including Fiordland National Park. This means:
- Fire permits are required for any open fire
- Permits are not required for established campsite fireplaces, BBQ's or incinerators
Thank you for helping to protect our environment.
Didymo controls for Fiordland rivers
Biosecurity measures have been put in place for Fiordland National Park rivers to limit the spread of didymo, an introduced and invasive freshwater alga. Approved cleaning stations and control measures are operating. Please view the Didymo Controls for Fiordland National Park information leaflet which includes a map showing the control areas.
For further information about didymo and the control measures contact:
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