Insider tips Check out Fiordland

Tracknet Transport Te A¯ nau operations manager Nepia Tauri, pictured, says the best way to experience the natural wonders of Fiordland is from the water.

Fiordland is a majestic area of New Zealand, created by huge geological forces and carved out by water and ice. On Lake Te A¯ nau a relaxing cruise with Cruise Te A¯ nau or a sail on the Faith In Fiordland are perfect ways to spend an afternoon.

If you want something a little faster, then a jetboat tour with Fiordland Jet on the Waiau River is a classic Te A¯ nau experience.

Lake Manapo¯ uri is New Zealand’s most beautiful lake with its towering mountains, scattered islands and golden beaches. Few people realise that you can book a private cruise on the lake through Tracknet and Lake Manapo¯ uri Water Taxi, which can be tailored to your group’s needs.

For those wanting to venture further, Pa¯ tea (Doubtful Sound) remains a more exclusive experience than the world-famous Piopiotahi (Milford Sound), with far fewer daily visitors.

A high-speed day cruise with RealNZ is a perfect way to experience Pa¯ tea for those short on time. You will spend up to three hours of this eight-hour experience in Doubtful Sound itself, giving you plenty of time to soak up some of its most captivating landmarks.

For the active and adventurous, a day trip with Doubtful Sound Kayak is a must. It operates group tours of just 10 people, giving you the chance to run your fingers through the cerulean blue water and gaze up at the sheer cliff faces.

However, the ultimate way to experience Pa¯ tea is on an overnight cruise with Fiordland Cruises, which combines the best elements of the other tours, with a small group size, the chance to go kayaking, and exclusive opportunities such as fishing. The memories from this 28-hour trip will last a lifetime. The best tip I can give you is to book early for kayaking and overnight tours, which can fill up as much as a year ahead.