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Fiordland
is a truly magnificent wilderness. Larger than all of New Zealand's national
parks together, it is a vast expanse of mountains, lakes and fiords. It
is seldom visited because of its remoteness, and it therefore one of the
world's greatest wilderness destinations. Perhaps that's why it has been
given World Heritage status. As a product of the last great ice age, Fiordland has many features associated with glaciation The most spectacular of these are the inland waterways that extend deep into the interior. These are Fiordland's marvelous fiords and they provide access by boat to a myriad of coves, channels, islands and inlets. At every turn a new discovery awaits. |
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It is Fiordland's underwater realm that is possibly the most unique and special feature of this fascinating place. As one of the wettest places in the world, Fiordland experiences a reverse thermocline. The huge amount of fresh water that falls in the fiords and sluices off the maintains forms a 3-5 meter layer of freshwater on top of the sea water During heavy rain it is a tea colour and inhibits light from reaching any great depth. As a consequence many deep water marine species life in much shallower depths than anywhere else in the world. Fiordland's black coral population is the largest in the world. Just as famous are the crayfish populations that live on the massive rock walls. Delectable shellfish such as scallops are also available. Rated by international underwater explorers as one of the best dive sites in the world, Fiordland's marine environment is awesome. |
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Fishing in Fiordland can be exceptional and it is one of the most enjoyable and relaxing activities to be had. Whether it is dropping a line over the side between dives hoping to catch a blue cod, or while cruising near the open sea trolling for tuna, catching fish is a big part of the 'Fiordland Experience'. Species on offer include blue cod, trumpeter, terakihi, and groper, all of which offer some of the best quality fish fillets possible. |
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There is some great hunting to be had in Fiordland. While the mountains are often steep and barely accessible, the river terraces and lower country offer magnificent stalking. Before the venison recovery years red deer were prolific. Now that the pressure from helicopters has eased they are once again present in moderate to high densities. During April when the stags are roaring it is an awesome experience to hear them bellowing across the water from the surrounding bush. For those who would love to get up on the high tops and hunt for deer in the open then providing a helicopter for transport is an option. Follow the links for more information |
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It is surprising to find that Fiordland, despite its remoteness has played an important role in New Zealand's historical past. Maori frequented the area in search of greenstone. Sealers and whalers built some of New Zealand's earliest settlements and Captain Cook visited the area twice. The tree that was used by the Resolution as a mooring is still there in Pickersgill Harbour. Several shipwrecks exist within the fiords to entice underwater explorers. There is so much to see and do. Your stay can be as action packed as you want, but whiling away the hours relaxing in warmth and comfort while enjoying the quiet and solitude is just as much a part of the Fiordland experience. |
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Click on image for movie preview |
The 'Fiordland Experience' is available on video. This is a 25 minute presentation showing the Tutoko and facilities, fishing, touring Dusky Sound, hunting, flying over Fiordland by helicopter, and water related activities including scuba diving. Please e-mail: information@aanz.itgo.com to order a copy. |
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THE
FIORDLAND EXPERIENCE |
