38 Interesting Facts about Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park, located in the southwestern region of New Zealand’s South Island, is a pristine wilderness area known for its breathtaking fjords, rugged mountains, and lush rainforests. Established in 1952, the park covers an area of over 12,600 square kilometers, making it the largest national park in New Zealand and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986.

The park’s most iconic feature is its deep fiords, carved by glaciers over millions of years. Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and Dusky Sound are some of the most famous and awe-inspiring fjords in the park, showcasing towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters. These fjords are best explored by boat cruises, allowing visitors to absorb the grandeur of the landscape.

Fiordland National Park is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park is crisscrossed by a network of hiking trails, including the world-renowned Milford Track, Kepler Track, and Routeburn Track, offering various options for trekking adventures amidst stunning natural scenery. The diverse landscapes, from alpine meadows to ancient forests, provide a rich and varied hiking experience.

The park is home to a remarkable array of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the region. The temperate rainforests are teeming with unique plant species, and the takahe, kea, and kiwi are among the indigenous birdlife found here. Visitors might also spot fur seals, dolphins, and, occasionally, whales in the coastal areas.

Conservation and preservation are vital goals for Fiordland National Park. Efforts are in place to protect the delicate ecosystems and maintain the natural beauty of the park. Strict regulations are enforced to minimize human impact, ensuring the park’s pristine state for generations to come.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park

It’s surely a good idea to look at these 38 interesting facts about Fiordland National Park to know more about it.

  1. World Heritage Site: Fiordland National Park, established in 1952, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding natural and cultural values.
  2. Glacial Fjords: Fiordland is renowned for its stunning fjords, formed through glacial erosion over millions of years.
  3. Largest National Park: It is the largest national park in New Zealand, covering an area of over 12,600 square kilometers.
  4. Remote and Isolated: Fiordland’s remoteness and challenging accessibility contribute to its pristine and untouched nature.
  5. Fiordland’s Milford Sound: Milford Sound, often referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World, is one of the most famous fjords within the park.
  6. Te Anau: The town of Te Anau serves as the gateway to Fiordland National Park and the starting point for many exploring the region.
  7. Doubtful Sound: Doubtful Sound is another iconic fjord, three times longer and ten times larger than Milford Sound.
  8. Diverse Flora: Fiordland hosts diverse flora, including ancient podocarp and beech forests, mosses, and lichens.
  9. Endangered Species: The park is a haven for endangered wildlife, including the flightless takahe, New Zealand falcon (kārearea), and kea parrot.
  10. High Rainfall: Fiordland is one of the wettest places in New Zealand, receiving an average of 6,412 mm (252 inches) of rainfall annually.
  11. Fiordland Crested Penguin: Fiordland is one of the few places where you can find the Fiordland crested penguin, a rare and endemic species.
  12. Mitre Peak: Mitre Peak in Milford Sound is one of the most photographed and iconic peaks in New Zealand.
  13. Cruise Tourism: Fiordland’s fjords attract thousands of tourists annually who enjoy boat cruises amidst spectacular natural scenery.
  14. Maori Connections: The Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, have a historical and cultural connection to Fiordland.
  15. Discovery by Europeans: Fiordland was explored and mapped by European explorers like James Cook and William Swainson in the late 18th century.
  16. Unique Geological Formations: Fiordland features impressive geological formations, including the stunning sea cliffs and hanging valleys.
  17. Fiordland Marine Area: The park includes a significant marine area, home to diverse marine life and ecosystems.
  18. Underwater Observatory: Milford Sound has an underwater observatory that allows visitors to see the marine life beneath the fjord’s surface.
  19. Long History: Fiordland’s geological history dates back millions of years, shaping its dramatic landscapes.
  20. Role in Film: Fiordland has been a filming location for several movies, including parts of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.
  21. Coral Discoveries: Recent underwater explorations revealed ancient coral formations in Fiordland’s deep underwater canyons.
  22. Sounds vs. Sounds: In New Zealand, “sounds” refer to ocean-flooded valleys (like Fiordland), while “sounds” elsewhere typically refer to a narrower water body.
  23. No Road Access: There is no road access between Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, even though they are relatively close geographically.
  24. Popularity of Hiking: The park offers various hiking tracks, and the Milford Track is one of the most popular multi-day hikes worldwide.
  25. Fiordland’s Skeeters: Fiordland is infamous for its sandflies (commonly known as “Fiordland’s mosquitoes”), which can be quite bothersome to visitors.
  26. Wetlands and Swamps: Fiordland houses extensive wetlands and swamps, providing habitats for unique plant and animal species.
  27. Stunning Waterfalls: The fjords of Fiordland National Park boast numerous impressive waterfalls, cascading down the sheer cliffs.
  28. Fiordland Crustaceans: The park is home to several rare and unique crustacean species, including the Fiordland freshwater crayfish.
  29. Abundance of Black Coral: Fiordland’s underwater world is abundant in black coral, a slow-growing and deep-sea coral variety.
  30. Mysterious Lakes: Fiordland has several beautiful lakes, including Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri, shrouded in mystery and legend.
  31. Ancient Glaciers: Fiordland’s fjords were formed by glaciers, some of which are ancient and date back thousands of years.
  32. Te Wahipounamu: Fiordland National Park is part of the larger Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes other protected areas.
  33. Fjordland’s Rainforest Giants: The park is known for its towering trees, including rimu, totara, and kahikatea, some reaching heights of over 50 meters.
  34. Fiordland’s Ecological Isolation: The park’s isolation has led to the evolution of unique flora and fauna, found only in this region.
  35. Glacial Water Properties: The fjords contain a layer of fresh glacial water that floats on top of the sea’s denser saltwater, creating a unique ecosystem.
  36. Outstanding Geomorphology: Fiordland showcases exceptional geomorphic features, including U-shaped valleys and dramatic rock formations shaped by glaciers.
  37. Exploration by John Grono: In 1889, John Grono, a prospector, completed a solo exploration of Milford Sound, providing insights into its beauty and potential.
  38. Maori Mythology: The Maori have traditional legends and stories related to Fiordland, adding a mystical layer to the park’s rich cultural tapestry.
Milford Sound

Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a testament to the raw, unbridled beauty of nature, offering a glimpse into the ancient geological processes that have sculpted its majestic fjords and rugged landscapes. It stands as a sanctuary, a place where the forces of ice and water have harmoniously converged over eons, creating a landscape that is both awe-inspiring and humbling. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a magical glow upon the towering cliffs and mirror-like waters, the profound sense of tranquility and wonder instills in visitors a deep respect for the natural world.

Stepping into Fiordland National Park is akin to stepping into a realm where time stands still, allowing one to reconnect with the earth’s ancient past and its enduring beauty. It beckons us to preserve its delicate balance, to protect its wildlife, and to cherish its pristine landscapes. It is a call to embrace the profound responsibility of stewardship, ensuring that this extraordinary wilderness remains unspoiled for generations to come. Fiordland National Park is not merely a destination; it is a sacred testament to the resilience and grace of the natural world, urging us to nurture and celebrate the wonders of our planet.