Explore Fiordland with the local experts

Explore Fiordland with the local experts

Family-owned Fiordland Outdoors Company are the experts when it comes to delivering stand-out, quintessentially kiwi experiences in the Fiordland National Park.

Soaring fiords, World Heritage status, lush forests and plenty of wildlife -- adventure-loving locals Mark and Christine Wallace and family have extensive knowledge of the area, having lived there for more than 20 years.

Their aptly-named Fish Jet experience combines two classic Kiwi pursuits – New Zealand trout fishing and a thrilling jet boat ride. Perfect for both first-timers and those looking to give trout fishing a go, guests enjoy fishing from the boat as it floats peacefully down the mighty Waiau River followed by a fun-packed jet boat ride back up the river.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Fiordland National Park, the waterway is largely accessible by boat only and teems with high numbers of healthy rainbow and brown trout.

To complete this very Kiwi experience, half- day expeditions include traditional home baking, while full day experiences include a delicious BBQ lunch beside the river made from locally-sourced ingredients.

The company has also teamed up with Te Anau Helicopter Services and guided walking company Trips & Tramps to offer The Epic Fiordland Package, an adventure-packed day of fishing, scenic flying and hiking.

Guests are whisked by jet boat to the best fishing spots on the Waiau River, where they try their luck angling for the resident trout, and enjoy morning tea with home baking.

A helicopter ride showcases Fiordland’s famous glacier-carved valleys, rivers, and granite-capped peaks, landing in a remote alpine location on the way.

Guests are then dropped at Luxmore hut on the Kepler track, one of the nine New Zealand Great Walks, for a delicious picnic lunch. This is followed by a three hour guided nature walk with breathtaking views, limestone bluffs and lush forest, before heading back to base by water taxi.

For the more experienced angler, there’s Mark Wallace Distinctive Fishing Experiences. Mark and his team move clients around the upper Waiau’s best fishing beaches and islands for a day’s spotting and largely fly fishing for New Zealand rainbow and brown trout.

Mark Wallace says the experience is a “unique opportunity” for the fly fisher.

“The upper Waiau River is largely inaccessible by foot. Its pristine, rainforest-fed clear waters are home to around 300 to 400 fish per kilometre, and the evening rises and mayfly hatches when they occur here are pretty incredible.”

In-keeping with their passion for Fiordland outdoor adventures, the Wallace family recently purchased Fiordland Water Taxis, which transports clients and their gear into remote Fiordland backcountry. Hiking options include transport to the Milford Track and George Sound Track as well as other Fiordland trails.

Experienced hunters and fishers themselves, Mark and Christine Wallace also offer transport to remote wilderness fishing sites, and hunting blocks of red deer and wapiti accessible from the shores of Lake Te Anau and Lakes Manapouri.
“We saw a need for a more extensive service on Lake Te Anau for hikers, hunters and fishermen, particularly in the northern area,” says Mark.
“Our vessel is a brand new, 8-metre purpose-built comfortable boat with room for up to 12 passengers and their gear.”

Catering to all lovers of the outdoors, the Fiordland Outdoors Company and their Fiordland Water Taxi operates year round and offers popular, privately guided walking experiences on the world-famous Milford Track. Teaming up with local guiding experts, guests can explore up to 14 kilometres of the stunning track where they can enjoy a picnic lunch before heading back to the boat.

Mark Wallace says he is “hugely proud” to share his passion for the outdoors and his extensive experience in the area, combined with the expertise and knowledge of other local companies.

“The Fiordland Outdoors Company offers the ultimate in personalised outdoor adventures.

“Fiordland is untouched, raw wilderness at its very best. It’s such a privilege to be able to offer visitors authentic kiwi experiences in this iconic part of New Zealand.”

ENDS

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