Hollyford Valley

Deep in Fiordland National Park, the Hollyford Valley offers a wild, remote wilderness experience that feels a world away from the tourist crowds. This ancient valley, carved by glaciers and cloaked in dense rainforest, is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. The Hollyford Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, winds through lush beech forest, past thundering waterfalls, and alongside pristine lakes and rivers. With a rich Māori history and stories of early European settlers, the valley is as culturally significant as it is stunning. Whether you tackle the full multi-day track or opt for a shorter jet boat and walk combo, you'll be rewarded with dramatic scenery and a profound sense of isolation.

Highlights & What to See

• Hollyford Track: A 56 km (35 mi) multi-day walk through ancient rainforest, past alpine lakes, and along wild rivers. Highlights include the historic Pyramid Creek swing bridge and the remote Martins Bay.
• Lake McKerrow / Whakatipu Waitai: A stunning, fiord-like lake surrounded by steep mountains, best viewed from the track or by scenic flight.
• Martins Bay: A wild, windswept beach where the Hollyford River meets the Tasman Sea, with views of the rugged coastline and possible seal sightings.
• Ōtūwairoa / Humboldt Falls: A spectacular 275 m (902 ft) waterfall that cascades down a sheer cliff face, visible from the track or a short walk.
• Lake Alabaster / Wāwāhi Waka: A peaceful, mirror-like lake with a DOC hut and excellent birdwatching, including the rare kākāpō (flightless parrot) in the area.
• Jet Boat & Walk Combo: A popular day trip option that combines a thrilling jet boat ride up the Hollyford River with guided walks to key viewpoints, perfect for those short on time.

Suggested Time to Spend

For the full Hollyford Track, allow 3–4 days (one-way, ending at Martins Bay, with a flight or boat out). If you're short on time, a day trip from Te Anau or Queenstown via a guided jet boat and walk is a fantastic way to experience the valley's highlights in just 8–10 hours. Many visitors combine a scenic flight over the valley with a short walk at Lake Alabaster for a half-day adventure.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Milford Sound / Piopiotahi: Just over the Homer Tunnel from the Hollyford Valley, this iconic fiord is a must-see, with boat cruises and kayaking.
• Te Anau: The gateway to Fiordland, offering lake cruises, glowworm caves, and the Kepler Track.
• Queenstown: 2.5 hours' drive east, with adventure sports, wineries, and stunning lake and mountain scenery.
• Fiordland National Park: Explore other Great Walks like the Routeburn or Kepler Tracks, or take a scenic drive along the Milford Road.
• Glenorchy: A charming lakeside village at the head of Lake Wakatipu, with hiking trails and film locations from The Lord of the Rings.

Please check official sources for current details.