At nearly 1.2 million hectares (3 million acres), Fiordland National Park is New Zealand’s largest national park – a breathtaking stretch of coastal landscape that typifies the country’s natural splendour. Created in 1952, it is a land of ice, beech forests, mountains and waterfalls that tumble into the ocean below. One of the park’s most famous sights is Milford Sound, which is the largest glacier-carved fiord on New Zealand’s coastline and attracts large numbers of sightseers and cruise ships every year. Popular activities in the park include hiking, sea kayaking, diving, cycling, golf, fishing and sailing. The Milford Track, which stretches some 53.5km (33 miles) from Glade Wharf to Sandfly Point, has been described as the finest walk in the world, taking visitors on a rugged, alpine journey through the park’s most breathtaking scenery. Visitors should, however, note that a permit is required for the track and these must be booked through the Visitor Centre in Te Anau.

Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre, c/o Department of Conservation, Lakefront Drive, PO Box 29, Te Anau, New Zealand
Tel: (03) 249 7924
Website: www.doc.govt.nz

Air: Christchurch International Airport, Te Anau Airstrip (domestic flights). Road: Bus: Public services to Milford Sound and Queenstown.

New Zealand