Tucked away in the far south-western corner of the South Island, Fiordland National Park is a vast area encompassing some of the most breath-taking scenery in the country. Rainforest clings to the steep cliff faces and after a rainfall (which is common here – it will rain on average 200 days of the year) waterfalls tumble from down in to the dark waters below. Bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals and little blue penguins are often seen playing in the inlets whilst an array of native birds make the most of this unspoilt habitat.

Most of the National Park is inaccessible to all but the most hardy of walkers, however, for your glimpse of this magnificent landscape take a cruise on either Doubtful or Milford Sound. Day trips are available and offer a fantastic journey along the Fiord, but for a truly magical experience join an overnight cruise. Waking up surrounded by this incredible landscape, shrouded in a striking silence is both humbling and inspiring, and often the highlight of the holiday.

The towns of Te Anau and Manapouri provide the access points to the Fiords and offer a handful of services for the visitor including a good selection of accommodation and even a little cinema, which is ideal for those rainy evenings.