Nestled within Fiordland National Park lies the Hollyford Valley, one of our most untouched regions. Whether you want to conquer the valley on foot or escape to a remote sanctuary, the Hollyford Wilderness Experience and the Waitai Lodge Fiordland Escape offer two distinct ways to connect with this ancient landscape.

At their heart, both the Hollyford Wilderness Experience and the Waitai Lodge Fiordland Escape are about connection to people and nature. ‘The difference really comes down to how you want to experience the valley,’ says Adam Dooney. ‘The Hollyford Wilderness Experience is a four-day, fully guided adventure that sees you travel the length of the Hollyford Valley on foot, by jet boat and by helicopter. It’s immersive, active and deeply rewarding.

‘Whereas the Waitai Lodge Fiordland Escape is about slowing the pace. Guests stay at the beautiful Waitai Lodge at Martins Bay and explore the lower valley through guided walks, boat trips and time to simply relax. It offers the same sense of remoteness and luxury but with a gentler rhythm.’ In many ways, it’s not about fitness or age, it’s about how you like to explore and adventure.

As the General Manager of the Hollyford Wilderness Experience, Adam is unsurprisingly passionate about what sets it apart from other tracks. ‘What makes it truly unique is its diversity. Few places in the world take you from alpine mountain passes to a remote coastline in a single journey; and fewer still do it with this sense of isolation and authenticity. From the moment you book you are fully supported and guided by people who genuinely love this place. You stay in private lodges, enjoy incredible food and finish each day feeling well looked after.’

Throughout the four-days tour guides bring the valley to life, sharing stories of early Māori travel routes, pioneering history and the unique flora and fauna that call this place home; helping you to understand the significance of the whenua (land) and why this valley has always been a place of passage and refuge. ‘It’s dramatic, humbling and incredibly beautiful. It isn’t about ticking off kilometres or chasing summits, it is about enjoying a stunning part of the country in comfort and care. It’s adventurous, yes, but it’s also refined.’

Preparation is surprisingly simple. While a reasonable level of fitness helps (you don’t need to be an athlete) being comfortable walking for several hours a day is important. ‘We provide very clear packing guidance and our team is always available to talk through any questions beforehand,’ continues Adam. ‘Once you arrive, everything is taken care of,  from three course meals and comfortable lodges to outdoor hot tubs and a great wine selection. Our role is to remove the stress so you can fully relax into the experience.’

Must Visit with Adam Dooney, Hollyford Wilderness Experience

The journey to Fiordland is part of the magic for me and Te Anau is always my first recommendation. It’s the perfect place to pause, take a breath and ease into Fiordland time. Sitting on the edge of the lake with the mountains rising behind it, there’s a calmness there that sets the tone for what’s to come.

If the weather’s right, I love stopping at Hidden Falls or Little Homer Falls. There’s something incredibly grounding about a quick swim in that clear, icy water.

And then there’s Piopiotahi Milford Sound. Arriving by helicopter gives you an entirely different perspective – soaring above the fiords, waterfalls and rainforest is simply unforgettable and completely unlike the view from the boats, which is how most people experience the area. This place is not only breathtaking, it’s uniquely Aotearoa. People travel from all over the world to see it and I genuinely believe every New Zealander should experience it at least once.

Hot Tip

Don’t rush it. Enjoy your time in the Valley and take time to take it all in. Let the transition into-and-out-of the wilderness be part of the experience. We take care of all logistics so you can simply arrive, exhale and enjoy.

Don’t forget your camera … although some of the best moments in the Hollyford are the ones you don’t photograph – they are the ones you carry with you.