Fall for Fiordland

Fiordland is nature's masterpiece: glacier-carved valleys, mirrored lakes, and skies that sparkle with a billion stars.

Ask any Kiwi about Fiordland, and you'll see dreamy eyes and hear a collective sigh. This remote, nature-blessed corner of New Zealand's South Island is home to some of the country's most dramatic scenery, think cinematic beauty straight out of The Lord of the Rings. Crystal-clear lakes, glacier-carved fiords, and lush rainforests teeming with rare birdlife like takahe, kakapo, mohua, and kea make it a paradise for explorers. And with minimal light pollution, Fiordland is a stargazer's dream, currently on track to become a certified Dark Sky Sanctuary.

Calling in from Queenstown.

From Queenstown, it's a scenic two-hour drive south to Te Anau, the perfect base for your Fiordland adventures, including Milford Sound. Te Anau is home to the largest lake in the South Island and boasts a stunning mountain backdrop, making it worth a visit on its own.

For wilderness seekers, try hiking to Lake Marian, jet-boating, or a heli-hike to Mt Luxmore. Then, refuel at one of Te Anau's excellent restaurants (wild venison is a local speciality). Before you venture deeper into the fiords, don't miss the Te Anau Glowworm Caves—formed by rivers over 12,000 years ago.

The Sounds of Nature

Carved by glaciers during the Ice Ages, Milford Sound is as wide as it is wonderful. Towering peaks scrape the sky, waterfalls tumble from heights of up to 580 metres, and dolphins and sea lions play in the mist. Further south lies Doubtful Sound, the deepest and second-longest fiord. It's harder to reach than Milford, but its secret weapon is silence.

Cruises and scenic flights are the most popular ways to experience Milford or Doubtful Sound. On a flight, you can even opt for a glacier landing or a picnic beside an alpine lake atop a breathtaking mountain peak. For a slower pace, try a half-day kayaking tour to access hidden corners of this untouched wilderness.

Sweet Dreams

For a luxurious and intimate stay, Cabot Lodge is a standout choice. Set on a 2,000-acre farm overlooking Lake Manapouri and the Fiordland mountains, this boutique retreat offers just five suites for ultimate privacy. Guests enjoy farm-to-plate dining, evening cocktails and canapés, and a hearty cooked breakfast each morning. The property features walking trails, a private fishing jetty, an outdoor spa pool, and even farm experiences like 4WD tours and beekeeping. It's the perfect blend of wilderness and comfort, with panoramic views at every turn.

If you prefer a boutique bed-and-breakfast experience, Dunluce Boutique Accommodation in Te Anau is another gem. With only four stylish rooms, Dunluce offers unobstructed lake and mountain views, modern amenities, and a deluxe breakfast featuring locally sourced produce. It's ideal for couples seeking tranquillity and warm Kiwi hospitality.