Off the Beaten Track to... Mavora Lakes Park

The Mavora Lakes are considered to be one of the treasures of Southland and part of Te Wāhipounamu/South-West New Zealand World Heritage Area. Located in the south-west corner of New Zealand's South Island, the landscape is dominated by mountains, lakes, forests and grasslands. The two lakes, North Mavora and South Mavora can be found between Mossburn and Te Anau on State Highway 94.

Mavora is a very special areas as many activities not allowed in other National Parks are permitted here, such as hunting, trout fishing, boating, water sports, 4WD-driving horse trekking, hiking (tramping) and mountain biking. A word of warning before you go: Take an industrial strength insect repellant with you as the sandflies are ferocious and not willing to give ground to you.

Things To Do

• Hunting – Permits for hunting in the area are required and can be obtained with a set of regulations from the Department of Conservation in Te Anau. Red and fallow deer, chamoism, pigs and possum are found in the park.
• Short and Overnight Hikes – Try the Mavora-Greenstone Walkway, a four-day hiking trip through open valley tussockland and beech forested hill country which links the Mavora Lakes Camping Area with the Greenstone Track. Day walk options include the South Mavora Lake Walking Track and the track to the Kiwiburn Hut.
• Camping – With lots to do in and around the lakes and a DOC ranger in residence during busier months, camping is a great option in this area. There are also huts to stay in.
• Fishing - Both lakes provide excellent high country fishing for brown and rainbow trout in a remote and stunningly attractive location. The best fishing spots are at either ends of the lakes. Fishing licences and season regulations apply.
• Horse trekking – For keen horse riders, this is a real bonus of Mavora Lakes as trekking is allowed in the park. A holding paddock is provided as horses cannot camp out.
• Mountain biking and 4WD – The track from the camping area to Boundary Hut is suitable for mountain biking and four wheel drive vehicle. Stick to the marked tracks to avoid damaging bikes, trucks or the environment.

More Information

For more information about Fiordland, follow the links below:

• Fiordland Accommodation
• Fiordland Attractions and Activities
• Fiordland Tours
• Fiordland Transport
• Fiordland Visitor Information

All Fiordland Accommodation can be booked online.