WEATHER IS PART OF THE HOLLYFORD STORY
Weather in Fiordland
Fiordland is one of the world's most remarkable wilderness regions, shaped over millions of years by mountains, rivers and rainfall. Here, no two days are ever the same. Sunshine, mist, dramatic cloud formations and occasional rain all contribute to the beauty of the Hollyford Valley, creating landscapes that are constantly evolving.
Due to the valley's unique location between the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea, conditions can change quickly, with temperatures and weather patterns varying throughout the day. For this reason, we recommend arriving prepared for a range of conditions.
Our experienced guides carefully monitor the weather and adapt as needed, ensuring guests remain safe, comfortable and able to enjoy the very best of the valley.
Whether you experience clear blue skies, drifting mountain mist or refreshing rainfall, each journey offers a unique perspective on this extraordinary part of New Zealand.
BE PREPARED
Summer months average around 20°C but the evenings can be a little cooler, our lodges of course are warm and comfortable. Winter temperatures average around 10°C on the coast with the evenings much colder. It is not unusual to experience both summer and winter conditions and temperatures on the same day!
It is important to be prepared and carry the appropriate clothing at all times. In the event of extreme weather the safety of all walkers is our priority and parts of the track may be bypassed if deemed to be of risk. In very rare situations your guide may need to adapt the day's walk, any decision to do this is a professional decision made by the guide, please respect their decision as it is based on experience and with your safety and comfort in mind.
WHY RAIN IS PART OF THE MAGIC
Rain transforms Fiordland's landscapes, bringing waterfalls to life, intensifying the colours of the forest and creating the dramatic scenery the region is famous for.
Far from detracting from the experience, rain often enhances it. Mist drifts through the valleys, clouds gather around the mountain peaks, and the landscape reveals a mood and atmosphere unique to Fiordland. Some of the most breathtaking scenery and memorable moments occur after a passing shower, when waterfalls are at their fullest and the wilderness feels truly alive.
Whether you experience sunshine, rain, or a little of both, each journey through the Hollyford Valley offers a different perspective on one of New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness environments.
Frequently asked questions
Fiordland has very changeable and unpredictable weather, so you need to be well prepared. It can change dramatically and quickly so it’s important to be prepared and carry the appropriate clothing at all times. Summer months average around 20°C but the evenings can be a little cooler. Of course, our lodges are quite warm and comfortable! Spring and autumn temperatures average around 10°C on the coast with the evenings being cooler still.
Fiordland is a temperate rain forest and up to 9 metres of rain falls annually. That's right - 30 feet of water can fall in the headwaters every year, so this is one of the wettest places in the world! For Americans think Olympic Peninsula, WA. So, you need a good rain coat. If you don't have one, we will loan you one.
Due to the rainfall we have drying rooms, so you can expect any wet clothes will be warm, dry and ready to wear each morning. Please refer to our gear check list for the most suitable clothing.
Please note that, whilst we do our best, due to the nature of Fiordland’s weather it can be difficult to make very accurate forecast predictions.
Guest safety is our highest priority. Our guides continually monitor weather and track conditions and, where necessary, may adapt the itinerary to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests. These decisions are based on local knowledge, experience and current conditions, allowing guests to experience the best of the valley while travelling safely.
While departures operate in most weather conditions, severe weather events may occasionally result in a trip being delayed, modified or cancelled. Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for full details.
Our experiences - Hollyford Wilderness Experience and Waitai Lodge Fiordland Escape - operate all summer, through to early autumn, from November to April. The flora and fauna in the valley can vary within this period and weather is as settled as we can expect in Fiordland National Park.
Don't Just Visit Fiordland. Experience It.
Escape deep into the wilderness. Secure your place today.
