This is Fiordland National Park; a magical place nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island. Encompassing a vast area of 1.2 million acres, as a UNESCO World Heritage site this is a natural haven of beauty and wildlife and all round heaven on earth for nature lovers or adrenaline junkies. We explore the enchanting charms of Fiordland National Park and what lures beneath the glossy surface of its untouched terrains.
Contents
- 1 About Fiordland National Park: Features Gorge Racing and Kayaking
- 2 Flora and fauna of Fiordland National Park
- 3 Milford Sound – The Gem of Fiordland National Park
- 4 Hidden away in Fiordland National Park, Doubtful Sound
- 5 Fiordland National Park Activities & Attractions
- 6 In conclusion: Discover Fiordland National Park
About Fiordland National Park: Features Gorge Racing and Kayaking
Located in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island, Fiordland National Park is famous for its jaw-dropping fjords, towering mountains and primeval rainforest. Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are the park’s most famous fjords, valleys that were carved by ancient glaciers, and here you will find a dramatic contrast of towering cliffs against still water that is a magnet for photographers. Awe-inspiring and humbling, the unique terrain within the precious wilderness of gengtoto Fiordland is among the most important in the southern hemisphere.
With its towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes and cascading waterfalls, Fiordland National Park is a land of almost supernatural beauty. From the Southern Alps’ snowcapped summits to lush valleys bursting with native flora, the entire region of Fiordland feels utterly wild and wonderful. You will be moved by the sheer spectacle of nature as the park’s landscape wonders as far as the eye can see, changing as quickly as you traverse its rough terrain.
Flora and fauna of Fiordland National Park
A nature lovers paradise, Fiordland National Park is home to a network of vibrant plant and animal life that thrives in this pristine environment. Tongariro is home to some amazing sound ecosystems, for example the 2 native Mountain bats, while remaining ‘tui grange meets park rangers’ the park may be teeming with kiwi and kea birds, pukeko and pikopiko chicory, and Fiordland penguins, even the great rimu tree that started out as a lush green pin you will see a couple of feet away from a juicy root of the old toota tongue plant syndicated ash forests.
As you move from one diverse ecosystem to the next, it seamlessly reveals the delicate balance that all life forms have on one another. The plants around us range from the towering podocarps in the lush rainforests of Fiordland to delicate ferns and vibrant mosses. While walking along the lush understorey you will be enveloped with the sweet smell of native flowers and the soft sound of rustling leaves, a nature experience unlike any other. Be on the lookout for hidden wildlife like the friendly dolphins that often play in the cool waters encircling the park, or the exquisite kea (parrots) that glide above the dense woods in a blur of greens and blues.
Milford Sound – The Gem of Fiordland National Park
Milford Sound is the jewel in the crown of the Fiordland National Park, a spell-binding fjord held in high esteem for its mystical beauty and tranquil setting. Flanked by sheer cliff faces that rise thousands of feet out of the indigo waters, Milford Sound simply oozes epic scale, an impression only heightened by frequent encounters with waterfalls (including New Zealand’s highest, Lady Bowen Falls) that pour and plunge symphonically.
In all the colours of the rainbow, the voyage offers a symphony of visual treats from towering cascading waterfalls that plunge from ledge to ledge, to vibrant rich green mosses and trees that cling to the diamond sharp rock faces along the high-walled fjord.
The Milford Sound is such stunning natural beauty on such a grand scale that it is virtually impossible not to be thrilled at the sight of huge Mitre Peak in the middle of the calm waters or giant Stirling Falls cascading down a jagged cliff face. Whether you explore its mirror-like waters by kayak, hike its stunning trails or simply enjoy the peace and beauty of this remaining virgin landscape, Milford Sound will capture your imagination and your heart long after you leave. Expect to be bewitched by the ancient splendour of Milford Sound, an elemental place that feels like the kingdom of the fiords.
Hidden away in Fiordland National Park, Doubtful Sound
And while Milford Sound steals much of the glory, Doubtful Sound is Fiordland National Park’s best kept secret, a more gentle and secluded escape from the demands of everyday life. Next a boat or flight one can access only this place, a place of serenity, doubful sound, Deep waters and forest from all over makes it really feel like in the middle of no where which is something one can enjoy here.
Or cruise the serene waters of Doubtful Sound, and feel all your troubles disappear, there to be heard only by the faint cries of a native bird or the distant crashing of a concealed waterfall. The sublime and untouched majesty of Doubtful Sound is a living spectacle to the permanence of nature, where time has barely battled against the rugged mountain peaks and luscious valleys that shape this hidden realm of the world. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Doubtful Sound, and find serenity deep in the heart of Fiordland National Park.
Fiordland National Park Activities & Attractions
There are numerous activities for people of all abilities in Fiordland National Park. Whether you are a keen hiker, wildlife lover or simply want a peaceful escape in the wilderness there is something in Fiordland for everyone. Take a picturesque boat cruise around Milford or Doubtful Sound for an intimate look at the unspoilt fjords.
Fiordland has a plethora of hiking and walking trails, from gentle strolls to multi-day treks, with even the adventurous covered. One of the park’s most famous features, the Milford Track calls out to hikers to traverse it’s rugged terrain and dive into the pristine wilderness that makes up the park. Have your camera at the ready for opportunities to spot wildlife as the park is alive with native birds, marine life and elusive creatures that inhabit Fiordland.
As you explore Fiordland National Park, also take a minute to reflect and think about the conservation efforts that are taking place to keep that nature reserve beautiful so we can enjoy her in the years to come. From elimination of pests to set up of sustainable tourism practices in a way that allows Fiordland to protect its natural heritage and its beauty for centuries. Get involved within the local community and see how they are preserving this ecological gem and be inspired to help in your own little way to preserve Fiordland.
In conclusion: Discover Fiordland National Park
In short, this place of pristine beauty embraces the timeless beauty that only nature knows best and as an individual who dares walk between its boundaries, we stand in awe as we are in a safe haven home of peace and wonder. The grand fjords and the lush rainforests, everything about Fiordland is magical and mesmerizing for your soul. Fiordland offers something for everyone, whether it is adventure, solitude, or simply taking the time to reconnect with nature, Fiordland calls you to unleash your curiosity of the wild, and foster memories that will last a lifetime. If you like reading this article then please consider reading our article about Bukit Holbung.
