Getting Oriented in The Southern Alps and Fiordland
The Southern Alps start in the northern end of the South Island around Kaikoura and stretch through the provinces of Canterbury, inland Otago, Westland, and Southland. These are serious mountains, with jagged 9,000-feet-plus peaks. The Mt. Cook area is the heart of Kiwi mountaineering. These majestic formations take center stage, and amazing landscapes unfurl at their feet—green rivers braided with white stone banks, acres of lupines, and lakes hued with indescribable blues. From Lake Tekapo, you finally come to "rest" at the adventure-friendly cities of Queenstown and Wanaka, historic Arrowtown, and the truly restful aura of the Otago vineyards. To the west, magnificent Milford Sound dominates Fiordland.
- The Southern Alps. In Mount Cook National Park, activities naturally revolve around the mountain—climbing, hiking, skiing, and scenic flights. But as you travel down into the foothills and valleys, the choices for adventure multiply. Stargaze at Lake Tekapo, or go gliding at Omarama, "the place of light." Enjoy the miles of hills and farmland as you travel through Lindis Pass; soon the uninhabited country will give way to Wanaka and the bustle of Queenstown.
- Fiordland. Te Anau is often referred to as a "jumping-off point" to explore Milford Sound. But the town, on the country's second-largest lake, is worth a stay to see the glowworms in Te Anau Caves. Doubtful Sound is actually closer to Te Anau than Milford but involves crossing Lake Manapouri and an alpine pass to get there.
