Fiordland Lodge
Lower South Island
Set in a stunning corner of the country, on the edge of the Fiordland National Park and overlooking the mysterious Lake Te Anau, Fiordland Lodge is a gem. The fishing is also exceptional, with plenty of brown and rainbow trout in the nearby rivers and streams.
The lodge sits on a plateau near Lake Te Anau, with wide views around the countryside and out to the mountains of the national park. The cuisine and hospitality are superb and the setting makes for a special stay. It also puts you within a two hour drive of beautiful Milford Sound and an easy day trip to Doubtful Sound by boat.
The lodge’s chosen guides can take you to fish on any of the 40 local rivers and when you’ve fished enough you can head out into the national park and explore. It’s a powerful place of great beauty. Fiordland National Park is now part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area, which also includes nearby Westland and Aoraki-Mount Cook National Parks – all stunning parts of the country.
Accommodation:
there are nine lodge rooms and one suite in the main lodge building, and two well-appointed log cabins in the grounds
the Executive Suite has a private lounge with gas fire, a delicious bathroom with spa bath, and long-ranging views to the far end of the lake
the nine lodge rooms also have beautiful lake views, ensuite bathrooms and luxurious beds. Each opens out with double doors to the balcony
the two log cabins are quietly understated with their recycled native timber interiors and comfortable furnishings. Each has a gas fire and far-reaching views to the lake and mountains of the national park
Log cabin guests have full use of the lodge facilities. One cabin sleeps 4 and the other 5 people
The Main Lodge:
an architectural statement in itself, the lodge features sturdy log construction, an 11 metre high river-stone fireplace and soaring roof and window profiles
a huge central gallery room is the social hub of the lodge and is a great place to watch the dynamic Fiordland weather and views
the decor reflects the outdoor environment with the colours of the mountains, lakes and tussock brought indoors
the restaurant, which also has stunning views, is well known locally for its fine food
the cuisine centres around locally grown, often organic, foods and the menu changes daily to reflect what’s available
The Fishing:
there are over 40 rivers within a 90 minute drive of the lodge
both rainbow and brown trout are caught, all on a Catch & Release basis
local guides specialise in upstream sight fishing, and can supply all gear and tackle
a 9 foot 5 or 6 weight rod, a reel capable of holding plenty of backing (there are some big fish out here), and line in dark colour. Clothing should be of dull or earth tonings to blend in with the local landscape
water temperatures this far south are cool – starting as low as 8 – 9 degrees C (46 – 48F) in early summer and peaking at 16 – 17 degrees C (62 – 64F) in mid-summer
overnight fishing and heli-fishing trips also available
guided fishing rates – from NZD$995 per day for 1-2 people; gear and lunch included; licences extra
Tariff:
Lodge accommodation - from NZD$1,040 per night for 2 people (twin share), low season rates. Includes Dinner & Breakfast
Seasonal rates are available
Multi-day stay/fish packages available
Cancellation and covid policies apply
New Zealand Fishing Licenses for Non-residents start from NZD$35 per day or NZD$250 for a season pass
Season:
Fiordland Lodge is open from 20 August to 31 May. The fishing season is open October to April.