Travel Guide Fiordland National Park

Located in the Southland region, Fiordland National Park (Te Rua-o-te-moko) is the largest natural park in New Zealand, but it is also one of the largest in the world, with an area of 12,570 km². As an indication, Yellowstone and Yosemite would not reach the same surface between them. Created in 1952, it extends over the entire southwestern part of the South Island. Classified as a World Heritage Site by Unesco, it offers landscapes of unparalleled beauty, with deep forests, steep valleys, immense fjords and snow-capped peaks. Many species of endangered birds live here, such as the takahé, the kéa, the kaka or the brown kiwi. The seabed is home to bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, blue penguins and the rare Fiordland crested penguin. Some of the most famous treks in the country are to be done here like the Milford Track which is considered the most beautiful trek in the country and even in the world! Milford Sound, Piopiotahi in Maori, remains the most popular spot to discover the region on a day trip. Fiordland is one of the most remote, wildest and wettest areas in the country. It is a fusion of mountains and water, especially due to the rains of the Roaring Forties. When you come to Milford Sound, don't miss the various stops along the way! Just as beautiful, Doubtful Sound (Patea) is much more peaceful and sheltered from the bus parade.