Fiordland became a national park in 1952, and Te Anau is the base for a day in it. The easiest walking starts in town: an easy track follows the Te Anau lakefront to where the Upukerora River flows into the lake, and the Kepler Track carpark at the lower end of the lake marks the start of the Kepler Great Walk. On that walk there is a toilet at the carpark and another a few minutes along the track at Dock Bay. Farther south, the Borland Nature Walk is an easy loop through Fiordland forest at Monowai.
The trade-off is getting around. The Department of Conservation runs no transport in the park, so beyond Te Anau you depend on your own vehicle or on DOC-approved transport and guiding businesses.
Family FAQ
How much does Fiordland National Park cost?
There is no charge to visit the DOC visitor centre for local information, bookings and hut tickets.
Is there parking at Fiordland National Park?
The Kepler Track carpark is at the lower end of Lake Te Anau, at the start of the Kepler Track.