A rare burst of Aurora Australis recently lit up the skies above Aotearoa, and Fiordland National Park was one of the best places to witness it. With its remote valleys, minimal light pollution, and deep connection to Te Taiao, Fiordland offers night skies that feel truly extraordinary. When the aurora appears, colours ripple across the darkness like a living korowai, rewarding those who stay up just a little later than planned.
Our team was lucky enough to experience this latest display from the Hollyford Valley. One of our lodge hosts, Stephane Dussau, an experienced photographer who knows the whenua as well as he knows his camera, captured a series of incredible images from the valley floor. His photos show soft pinks, sweeping purples, and bright arcs, reminding us why Fiordland is such a special place for night-sky watchers.
Click below to view the images on our Facebook page
The Hollyford Valley is already known for its towering peaks, ancient forests, and peaceful waterways, but after dark it becomes something else entirely. On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches overhead, satellites trace slow lines across the sky, and the calls of ruru echo in the distance. When an aurora arrives, the whole landscape feels energised - a rare and unpredictable gift from the south.
For manuhiri joining us on the Hollyford Wilderness Experience or relaxing at Waitai Lodge Fiordland Escape, these night skies are an unforgettable part of the journey. While aurora sightings can never be guaranteed, Fiordland’s remote location gives you some of the best odds in Aotearoa to see them when they do appear.
Whether you’re a keen photographer or simply love the magic of the night, Fiordland’s sky is always worth staying up for.