Hollyford Track

Point to point

Highlights & Must-See Features

The Hollyford Track is packed with "pinch-me" moments. Here are a few you shouldn't miss:

• The Hollyford River (Whakatipu Kā Tuka): This powerful river is your constant companion. Watching it transform from a rushing mountain torrent into a wide, glassy expanse as it nears the coast is mesmerising.
• Hidden Falls: Early in the hike, you’ll encounter these thundering falls. It’s a great spot for a photo and a reminder of the sheer volume of water that moves through this landscape.
• The Demon Trail: It might be a physical challenge, but the rugged beauty of this section is undeniable. It’s tramping in its purest, most untamed form.
• Martins Bay & Long Reef: The coastal terminus is the ultimate reward. Take a walk out to Long Reef to see the New Zealand fur seal colony. If you’re there between July and December, keep a very sharp eye out for the rare Tawaki (Fiordland crested penguin) hopping amongst the rocks.
• Ancient Forest: The section between Hidden Falls and Lake Alabaster features some of the most impressive "cathedral-like" forest in the country. The scale of the trees here makes you feel wonderfully small.

Getting There

To reach the start of the Hollyford Track, you’ll need to drive to the end of Lower Hollyford Road. From Te Anau, take the Milford Road (SH94) for about 87 kilometres. You’ll turn off at Marian Corner onto the Lower Hollyford Road. Follow this unsealed road for about 16 kilometres to the very end.

Parking: There is a dedicated parking area at the trailhead. You’ll find a shelter, a picnic table, and a standard DOC long-drop toilet here. While the carpark is relatively safe, it is remote, so ensure no valuables are left in your vehicle.

Because this is a point-to-point hike, you need to think about your exit. Most independent trampers arrange a shuttle to the trailhead and a flight or jet boat out of Martins Bay back to Milford Sound or Te Anau. If you’re on a guided tour, parking is often arranged at the Distinction Hotel Te Anau, with transfers provided to the start of the track.

Wildlife Spotting

Fiordland is a stronghold for New Zealand’s unique fauna, and the Hollyford valley is no exception.

• Kākā: Listen for a harsh, screeching "ka-aa" sound echoing through the canopy. These large, forest parrots are curious and can often be seen year-round.
• Tūī: You’ll hear their complex melodies and metallic clicks long before you see them. Look for the white tuft of feathers under their throats.
• Tawaki (Fiordland Crested Penguin): One of the world’s rarest penguins. They are occasional visitors to the coast at Martins Bay from July to December. They are very shy, so if you see one, give it plenty of space.
• South Island Robin (Kakaruai): These friendly little birds are known for following hikers to see if their boots stir up any tasty insects in the leaf litter.
• New Zealand Fur Seals: At Long Reef, you’ll almost certainly see these seals basking on the rocks. They are there year-round but are particularly active during the summer breeding season.

Tip: Carry a small pair of lightweight binoculars. Many of the birds, like the Kererū (wood pigeon), sit high in the podocarp canopy and can be hard to spot with the naked eye.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

One of the best things about the Hollyford Track is that its low altitude makes it a year-round option. While the high-alpine tracks are buried in snow and prone to avalanches in winter, the Hollyford remains accessible.

• Spring (Sept–Nov): The river is high, the waterfalls are pumping, and the forest is incredibly lush. This is also the best time to see the Tawaki.
• Summer (Dec–Feb): The warmest months, but also the peak season for our "favourite" local—the sandfly. Bring plenty of repellent!
• Autumn (March–May): Often brings more stable weather and cooler, crisper air, which is perfect for heavy tramping.
• Winter (June–Aug): A magical time if you don't mind the cold. There are fewer people, no sandflies, and the snow-capped Darran Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the green valley.

• Start Early: Aim to be on the track by 8:00 am each day. The days can feel long, especially on the rocky sections, and you want plenty of time to enjoy the huts.
• Gear: This is Fiordland. Rain gear is non-negotiable. Even if the forecast says sun, bring a high-quality waterproof jacket and pack liner.
• Footwear: Because of the mud and the 'Demon Trail', sturdy, waterproof boots with good ankle support are highly recommended. This isn't a trail for flimsy sneakers.
• Water & Food: You can fill up from streams, but it's wise to treat the water or use a filter. Carry at least 2 litres of water and enough food for an extra day, just in case heavy rain makes a stream uncrossable for a few hours.
• The "No" List: Please note that this track is not dog-friendly (to protect the native birds) and is generally not kid-friendly due to the technical nature of the terrain and the long distances between huts.

Local & Regional Context

The Hollyford Valley is steeped in history. For centuries, Māori used this valley as a vital "greenstone trail." They would travel from the inland lakes to the coast at Martins Bay to collect pounamu (greenstone), which was then traded across the South Island.

In the late 1800s, European settlers had grand visions of turning Martins Bay into a bustling port. They even established a town called Jamestown on the shores of Lake McKerrow. However, the sheer isolation and the brutal Fiordland weather proved too much. The settlement was eventually abandoned, and today, only a few foundation stones and a plaque remain—a sobering reminder of how wild this land truly is.

Geologically, the valley is a textbook example of glacial carving. The U-shaped valley was gouged out by massive glaciers during the last ice age. When the ice retreated, it left behind the spectacular hanging valleys and the deep basins that now hold the lakes.

After the Walk

After 56 kilometres of mud, rocks, and raw nature, you’re going to be hungry. Most hikers end up back in Te Anau, which is the "Gateway to Fiordland" and the perfect place to refuel.

• Miles Better Pies (Te Anau): A local institution. There is nothing quite like a hot venison or steak and cheese pie to celebrate a successful tramp.
• The Sandfly Cafe: Don't let the name scare you! It’s a warm, welcoming spot with great coffee and massive breakfast plates—perfect for those post-hike cravings.
• Redcliff Cafe: If you want a more "celebratory" dinner, this place has fantastic local atmosphere and serves up some of the best Fiordland wild game and seafood in the region.
• Fiordland Cinema: If you have any energy left, head here to watch Ata Whenua – Shadowland. It’s a stunning film shot from helicopters that shows you the landscapes you just walked through from a whole new angle.

The Hollyford Track is a true New Zealand classic. It’s a journey that tests your physical limits while rewarding you with some of the most pristine, ancient scenery on the planet. Whether you're a local or a visitor, it’s an experience that stays with you long after the mud has been washed off your boots.