New Zealand — Te Anau
Fjordland Coastal Route: New Zealand's premier wilderness expedition. This 60km, 3-4 day moderate trek traverses ancient temperate rainforest, secluded granite coves, and dramatic ridgelines within Fiordland National Park. Offering profound isolation, this rugged route provides a raw connection to a pristine, remote landscape.
Distance: 60.0 km
Elevation Gain: 500 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3-4 days
The Fjordland Coastal Route is a premier wilderness expedition that traverses the rugged, salt-sprayed fringes of New Zealand’s largest national park. Spanning 60.0 kilometres of ancient temperate rainforest, secluded granite coves, and dramatic ridgelines, this 3-to-4-day journey offers a raw and visceral connection to the Fiordland landscape. Unlike the more manicured Great Walks, the Coastal Route provides a sense of profound isolation, where the rhythm of the day is dictated by the tides of the Tasman Sea and the unpredictable weather systems of the Roaring Forties. Starting with a boat journey across the deep, mysterious waters of Lake Manapouri, walkers are deposited at the very edge of the wilderness, far from road noise and cellular signals. This is a track for those who seek the silence of the bush, the roar of the ocean, and the challenge of navigating one of the most pristine ecosystems remaining on Earth.
The Fjordland Coastal Route is a masterclass in ecological diversity, transitioning seamlessly from the towering podocarp forests of the interior to the wind-stunted "goblin forests" that cling to the coastal cliffs. While the total elevation gain of 500 metres may suggest a flat journey, the reality of the terrain is far more engaging. The path winds through a labyrinth of massive tree roots, crosses crystal-clear mountain streams, and traverses sandy beaches where the only footprints are likely to be your own or those of the local birdlife. The geology of the region is dominated by ancient gneiss and granite, carved by successive glaciations into the deep fiords and steep-sided valleys that define the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area (Te Wāhipounamu).
Water is the defining element of this route. Fiordland is one of the wettest places on the planet, receiving upwards of 7,000 mm of rainfall annually in certain sectors. This constant moisture fuels a prehistoric landscape where every surface is draped in a thick carpet of emerald moss, and epiphytic ferns grow high in the canopy of Rimu and Miro trees. When the rain falls—as it frequently does—the forest transforms into a shimmering, silver world of temporary waterfalls and rising mists. Conversely, on the rare days when the sun breaks through, the coastal vistas across the Tasman Sea are nothing short of breathtaking, with the deep blue of the ocean contrasting against the stark white of the granite peaks.
The route is designed for walkers who appreciate the subtleties of the bush. It is not a journey of constant alpine passes, but rather one of intimate encounters with nature. You might find yourself sharing a beach with a New Zealand fur seal (kekeno) or watching the inquisitive South Island robin (toutouwai) hop around your boots at a rest stop. The isolation of the Fjordland Coastal Route ensures that the human impact remains minimal, preserving a sense of discovery that is increasingly rare in the modern world. It is a journey that demands physical resilience and a spirit of adventure, rewarding the prepared walker with a deep sense of peace and a renewed respect for the power of the natural world.
The history of the Fjordland Coastal Route is a tapestry of Māori voyaging, European exploration, and the rugged industry of early settlers. For centuries, Ngāi Tahu Māori utilised the coastal fringes of Fiordland as seasonal bases for gathering kai moana (seafood) and hunting the now-extinct moa. The region was also a vital source of pounamu (greenstone), which was highly prized for its strength and spiritual significance. The coastal routes were treacherous, requiring intimate knowledge of the tides and weather patterns, and the land remains deeply sacred to Ngāi Tahu as part of their ancestral heritage.
European contact began in the late 18th century, with Captain James Cook charting the coastline during his second voyage in 1773. Cook’s descriptions of the "dreadful" and "mountainous" terrain did little to deter the sealers and whalers who followed in the early 1800s. These hardy individuals established temporary camps in the sheltered coves along the route, leaving behind remnants of stone hearths and rusted ironwork that can still be found by the observant walker. The mid-19th century brought surveyors and explorers, such as Quintin MacKinnon and Donald Sutherland, who sought to map the interior and find overland routes to the fiords. Their efforts were often hampered by the impenetrable bush and the relentless rain, yet their legacy is preserved in the names of the landmarks and peaks that surround the track.
In the 20th century, the focus shifted from exploitation to preservation. The establishment of Fiordland National Park in 1952 marked a turning point, ensuring that the unique biodiversity of the coastal route would be protected for future generations. Today, the track is managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC), which maintains the delicate balance between providing access to this spectacular wilderness and protecting its fragile ecosystems. Walking the Fjordland Coastal Route is, in many ways, a walk through time, where the stories of the past are whispered in the wind that blows off the Tasman Sea.
Want more background? Read extended notes on history and cultural context → Learn more
The Fjordland Coastal Route is best experienced during the southern hemisphere’s late spring, summer, and early autumn (November to April). During this window, the days are long, and the temperatures are generally mild, ranging from 10°C to 20°C. However, walkers must be prepared for the "Fiordland Factor"—the reality that extreme weather can occur at any time of year. Snow is possible on the higher ridges even in mid-summer, and heavy rain is a constant possibility.
Spring (November to December) is a time of vibrant growth. The forest is alive with the calls of nesting birds, and the alpine flowers begin to bloom in the clearings. This is also the time when the waterfalls are at their most powerful, fed by the last of the winter snowmelt. Summer (January to February) offers the most stable weather and the warmest temperatures, making the coastal sections particularly enjoyable. However, this is also the peak season for sandflies, which can be a significant nuisance in sheltered areas. Autumn (March to April) brings cooler, crisper air and a change in the light that is a dream for photographers. The sandfly population begins to dwindle, and the forest takes on a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.
Winter (May to October) transforms the route into a challenging environment suitable only for expert backcountry travellers. Many of the smaller streams can become impassable after heavy rain, and the track can be obscured by snow or fallen debris. The Department of Conservation often removes bridges on certain sections to prevent damage from avalanches or floods, and the huts operate with limited facilities. For most walkers, the winter months are a time to plan and prepare for the following season, rather than to venture onto the track.
Day 1: Pearl Harbour to Hope Arm Hut
Day 2: Hope Arm Hut to Snowball Creek Campsite
Day 3: Snowball Creek to West Arm Coastal Section
Day 4: West Arm to Pickup Point
Important Notes:
The Fjordland Coastal Route requires meticulous planning, primarily due to the logistical challenge of boat transport. Unlike many other tracks in New Zealand, you cannot simply drive to the trailhead. You must coordinate your arrival at Pearl Harbour in Manapouri with a pre-booked water taxi or ferry service. It is recommended to arrive in Te Anau or Manapouri at least one day before your hike to finalise gear and check the latest weather and track conditions at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.
Fitness is a key consideration. While the elevation gain is modest, the "Fiordland miles" are hard-earned. The track is often narrow, muddy, and obstructed by roots or fallen trees. You should be comfortable carrying a full multi-day pack (12–15 kg) for up to 8 hours a day over uneven ground. Training on similar terrain with a weighted pack is the best way to prepare your legs and core for the demands of the route.
Accommodation on the Fjordland Coastal Route is a mix of Department of Conservation (DOC) huts and wilderness campsites. Because this is not a Great Walk, the facilities are more basic, and a "first-come, first-served" policy generally applies for the huts, though you must possess a valid Backcountry Hut Pass or hut tickets.
Hut Facilities (e.g., Hope Arm Hut):
Wilderness Campsites:
Costs: Standard DOC hut tickets are approximately NZ$10–$20 per night, or you can use a Backcountry Hut Pass (NZ$160 for an annual pass). Camping is generally free or requires a nominal fee in certain areas.
Currently, no specific "walking permit" is required to hike the Fjordland Coastal Route. However, this does not mean you can simply show up. The regulatory requirements focus on accommodation and transport, which act as a de facto permit system. Because the track is located within Fiordland National Park, you must adhere to all Department of Conservation regulations regarding backcountry travel.
Hut and Camping Requirements:
Transport Bookings:
International Visitors: Please note that differential pricing may apply for certain facilities in New Zealand National Parks. While the Coastal Route is currently exempt from the higher Great Walk fees, it is important to check for any recent policy changes before your arrival.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Fjordland Coastal Route (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Fjordland Coastal Route, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The region surrounding Manapouri and Te Anau is a gateway to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Southern Hemisphere. Consider adding these experiences to your itinerary:
The Fiordland Environment: Fiordland is a beautiful but unforgiving environment. The weather can change from blue skies to a torrential downpour in less than an hour. Hypothermia is a real risk, even in summer, if you become wet and exposed to the wind. Always carry high-quality waterproof layers and a warm hat and gloves, regardless of the forecast.
River and Stream Crossings: The Fjordland Coastal Route involves several stream crossings. In normal conditions, these are straightforward. However, after heavy rain, these streams can rise rapidly and become dangerous torrents. If a stream looks too deep or fast to cross safely, wait for the water level to drop (which often happens quickly once the rain stops) or turn back. Never attempt to cross a flooded river.
Tidal Awareness: The coastal section of the track includes areas where you must walk along the beach. Some of these sections are cut off at high tide. You must carry a current tide chart and plan your day to ensure you reach these points during low or falling tides. Getting trapped by the tide against a granite cliff is a life-threatening situation.
Communication and Emergencies: There is no mobile phone coverage on the track. A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is the only reliable way to signal for help in an emergency. You can hire PLBs from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in Te Anau. Always leave your intentions with a trusted contact or use the DOC intentions system.
Sandflies: While not a direct safety threat, sandflies can cause significant distress and allergic reactions in some people. They are most active in calm, damp conditions and near water. Use a strong repellent and wear long sleeves and trousers when stationary.
The Monument: A steep but rewarding side trip from the Hope Arm track. This distinctive rock formation offers a 360-degree view of Lake Manapouri, the Waiau River, and the surrounding mountains. It requires a bit of a scramble, so only attempt it in dry conditions.
Stockyard Cove Waterfalls: Near the start of the track, a short detour leads to a series of beautiful waterfalls hidden in the deep forest. It is a perfect spot for a final photo before the boat pickup.
Garnet Burn Beach: A secluded beach where the Garnet Burn stream meets the lake. The sand here contains tiny, naturally occurring garnets, giving it a unique reddish hue in the right light.
The West Arm Power Station: While not a natural feature, the Manapouri Power Station is an engineering marvel. Located deep underground at the West Arm, it uses the 178-metre drop between Lake Manapouri and the sea at Doubtful Sound to generate electricity. Tours are sometimes available and provide a fascinating contrast to the wilderness experience.
The Fjordland Coastal Route passes through a fragile and pristine ecosystem. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that we leave no impact on this landscape. Please strictly adhere to the seven principles of Leave No Trace:
