Hurunui Fjords

Carved by ancient glaciers and cloaked in primeval beech forest, the Hurunui Fjords offer a raw, silent grandeur that feels a world away from Hanmer Springs. Accessed via a rugged 4WD track or by air, these remote fiords – actually steep-sided valleys flooded by the Hurunui River – reward intrepid travellers with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and mirror-still waters that reflect the Southern Alps. It's a place for those who crave solitude and unspoilt wilderness.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Sumner and the Hurunui River mouth: The centrepiece of the fiords, where turquoise waters meet sheer rock walls – kayak or packraft for an unforgettable perspective.
• Waterfall walks: Short tramps from the road end lead to thundering cascades like the Hurunui Falls, where you can feel the spray on your face.
• Boyd-Livingston Track: A multi-day tramp that weaves through the fiord heads, offering alpine views and encounters with kea and chamois.
• Scenic flights from Hanmer Springs: The easiest way to grasp the scale of the fiords – snow-capped peaks plunge straight into the water.
• Glowworm dell: After dark, a short walk near the Lake Sumner hut reveals thousands of tiny lights in the damp undergrowth.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least a full day to the Hurunui Fjords if driving yourself – the gravel access road from Hanmer Springs takes around 1.5 hours each way, so set out early. For a deeper experience, overnight at Lake Sumner Hut (book ahead) and spend two days exploring the fiord arms and side valleys. Those short on time can opt for a half-day scenic flight, which covers the highlights in 45 minutes.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hanmer Springs: Soak your tired muscles in the famous thermal pools after your fiord adventure.
• Waiau Ferry Bridge and the Waiau River: A great spot for jet-boating or a riverside picnic en route.
• Molesworth Station: New Zealand's largest farm, accessible via the Acheron Road – a rugged detour for history buffs and 4WD enthusiasts.
• Kaikōura: Head east for whale watching and the stunning Kaikōura Peninsula walkway (about 2 hours from Hanmer Springs).
• Lewis Pass National Reserve: Offers alpine tramping and the serene Marble Hill picnic area, perfect for a break on the drive back.

Please check official sources for current details.