[2025 Te Anau ] Travel Guide for Kepler Track (Updated Oct)

Stop: Fiordland National Park, South Island Spanning nearly 1.2 million hectares of rugged wilderness, Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand’s most dramatic and breathtaking landscapes. Known for its steep fjords, glacially carved valleys, and cascading waterfalls, the park embodies the raw beauty and scale of the country’s natural environment. Its remote location on the southwestern corner of the South Island ensures an experience of untamed wilderness, where towering mountains meet serene waters and dense rainforest cloaks the landscape. The park offers a wealth of exploration opportunities, from scenic cruises through iconic fjords like Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound to challenging multi-day hikes along trails such as the Kepler, Routeburn, and Milford Tracks. Visitors can witness native wildlife, including dolphins, fur seals, and rare bird species, set against a backdrop of misty cliffs and glacial lakes. Each viewpoint reveals new perspectives, emphasizing both the grandeur and the intricate details of Fiordland’s ecosystems. Beyond its scenic allure, Fiordland National Park represents a critical conservation area, preserving native flora and fauna and protecting habitats for endangered species. The interplay of water, forest, and mountain creates a living classroom for understanding geology, ecology, and environmental stewardship. Whether gliding silently through a fjord, hiking a rugged trail, or pausing to absorb the sheer scale of the surroundings, Fiordland leaves a lasting impression as one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary natural treasures. #mytraveldiary

#mytraveldiary Fiordland National Park, located in the southwestern corner of New Zealand’s South Island, is one of the country’s most iconic natural landscapes. Renowned for its dramatic fiords, towering mountains, lush rainforests, and pristine lakes, it offers an unparalleled experience for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. ⸻ Ambience & Setting The park is defined by steep cliffs rising sharply from deep, glacially-carved fiords, dense temperate rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. Mist often shrouds the mountains, adding a mystical quality, while clear days reveal sparkling waters and expansive skies. The area is largely untouched, providing a sense of remoteness and serenity. ⸻ Highlights • Milford Sound & Doubtful Sound: World-famous fiords offering boat cruises, kayaking, and spectacular scenery. • Hiking Trails: Iconic treks such as the Kepler Track, Routeburn Track, and Milford Track showcase mountains, lakes, and valleys. • Waterfalls & Lakes: Stunning natural features like Sutherland Falls, Lake Te Anau, and Lake Manapouri. • Wildlife: Native birds like the kiwi, kea, and penguins, as well as marine life including seals and dolphins. • Photography: Dramatic landscapes ideal for capturing the essence of New Zealand’s wilderness. ⸻ Practical Info • Location: South Westland, South Island, New Zealand. • Access: Main gateways via Te Anau or Milford Sound; car or tour buses recommended. • Facilities: Visitor centres, guided tours, lodges, campsites, and marked hiking tracks. • Best Time to Visit: Summer (December–February) for milder weather and accessible trails; winter offers snow-capped peaks but limited access. ⸻ Why It’s Worth Visiting Fiordland National Park offers some of the most dramatic and unspoiled natural scenery in the world. Its combination of towering mountains, deep fiords, lush forests, and abundant wildlife makes it a must-visit for adventurers, photographers, and anyone seeking to experience the raw beauty of New Zealand.

#postandearn Kepler Track is one of New Zealand’s nine great walks, just 5km from the centre of Te Anau and is a loop track (starting and finishing at the same point) so it’s a popular trek. In April, the trek is closed for a few days due to heavy snow and rain. The Kepler Track day walk is a great way to experience Fiordland’s stunning landscapes without committing to a multi-day hike. Expect a wide range of scenic options, including half-day and full-day walks that explore a variety of terrain including lush beech forests, alpine meadows and tranquil lakes. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and pristine Lake Te Anau. The trails are well maintained and suitable for most fitness levels. Knowledgeable guides will provide insight into the local flora, fauna and geology. Prepare for changing weather conditions and bring the right gear. Whether you're a casual walker or a seasoned hiker, the Kepler Track Day Walk promises a memorable outdoor adventure in one of New Zealand's most picturesque regions. #newzealandtrip #keplertrack

One person, two mountain houses, three days, 61 kilometers, 96710 steps👣 Feel the power of nature in the mountains and forests for these three days The weather in the fjords is unpredictable, especially in the mountains I was very lucky that the weather wasn’t too bad these three days Complete the trail in a counterclockwise direction. -🏞Day 3 27km 41716 pace👣- Main line: From Iris burn hut to Rainbow reach car park Branch: Iris burn waterfall I didn't get up until almost 8pm on the third day. I also packed my bags very quickly. First go to the nearby branch line to see the waterfall. The environment along the road is quiet, with wild ferns everywhere The green mountains and forests make people feel soothing. There are also people swimming naked in the morning. Swimming naked abroad is no longer a special thing. But swimming in such a cold stream🏊‍♀️ It's really admirable! It must be very cool and comfortable. Spent an hour round trip taking the branch line. It was 9:30 when we really started the main route. I was thinking that Ranger mentioned that there would be a shuttle bus at 3pm. But the third day of the route even the long-legged foreigner had to walk eight hours, Moreover I am a short-legged person 🦵! So I left with all my strength, Fortunately, there were not many uphill sections of the route on the third day. Most of them are flat roads and easy to walk! Along the way you will pass a big slip big valley Flat Valley formed in 1984 by a heavy rain alone in the valley, Feel the magical power of nature! Looking at the surrounding mountain peaks, It feels like being embraced by nature! Along the way I kept meeting mountaineers who left earlier than me. Everyone wants to catch the 3pm shuttle. Although there is still one class at 5 o'clock. But I myself think the most magnificent view was satisfied the next day, I want to end it quickly 🔚 I also want to challenge my leg strength🦶 Along the way you will pass Lake Manapouri Spectacular lake view! There is still some snow on the hilltop in the distance. The lake reflects the blue sky and white clouds. The last part of the road, all in the woods, There are many unique giant wild mushrooms. There are also many cute birds. Many fan tails🐦The tail wing looks like a fan I sat on a branch and rested. A little bird jumped around me curiously. I left some of the little food left for her, Then we will continue our journey! Some huge wooden trunks fell to the ground along the road. Be grateful for every leap. Thank you to the trees for letting us step and helping us complete the trip successfully. Finally at 2:45 pm I finally walked the eight hour journey in five hours and 15 minutes! Achievement achieved! And when you see the signs. Very moved and satisfied! Originally expected to hitchhiking back to town. Really tired to give up completely. Seeing the shuttle arriving. We all said to the driver 👨🏼‍✈️, "It's great to see you!"