Hollyford Track is a spectacular tramping/hiking track located in northern Fiordland in the South Island of New Zealand. The trekking track is largely flat in nature and is accessible almost round the year. The track follows the course of Hollyford River, which in turn, runs along the course of the Hollyford Valley, a classic glacial valley formed about 20,000 years ago. Recognising the potential of Hollywood Track, Ngâi Tahu Tourism purchased it and have invested heavily behind it to ensure best of facilities.

Hollyford Valley:

Features lowland forests, lakes, estuaries and the coastal areas that are home to birds and animals. The forest is mainly Silver Beech and have a rich understory of Coprosmas, Wineberry, Fuchsia and Pepperwood.

Tomtit, Robin, Brown Creeper, Bellbird, Grey Warbler, Fantail, forest parrot, called the Kâkâ are often spotted in the valley.

History of Hollyford Track:

The Maoiri people were the first to settle in the area around Martins Bay. In 1863, the first European to have reached the area was Patrick Caples. The same year, Captain Alabaster also crossed Martins Bay to reach Lake McKerrow. Theearly years saw much enthusiasm around a commercial port at Martins Bay. Efforts were on to set up a settlement but lack of communication soon killed the initiative. Later, it was Davy Gunn who took pain to begin the tramping tourism industry here. After Davy’s death, Murray, his son, continued with the guided tramping tours. In 1960, the valley was included in Fiordland National Park with Davy Gunn’s original tracks being upgraded.

Hollyford Track:

The track, whichn runs in south-north direction, is 56 kilometres long. The southern end of the track is 15 kilometres due east of Homer Tunnel while its northern terminal is located at the Tasman Sea coast at Martins Bay, north of Milford Sound.

The track features two lakes, namely, Lake Alabaster and Lake McKerrow. The track runs through lowland forest of the valley. Wildlife including seals, penguins, and herons can be spotted while trekking at Hollywood track.

Trekking at Hollyford Track:

The surrounding view of the track changes frequently, ranging from dense forests, rivers, cascading waterfalls, reefs, and dunes to glaciers and mountains. Being downhill, the trek is perfect for all. The high peaks, namely, Mt. Tutoko and Mt. Madeline can also be seen during the trek. Other activities beside trekking here include jet boat rides down the river and small airplane rides. In all, trekking at the fabulous Hollyford Track familiarizes one with the wilderness of New Zealand. Trekking here has no goal. It is just the experience that matters.

Peter Archibald and his Hollyford Track company operate New Zealand Department of Conservation’s official trekking concession in the Hollyford. They provide guides, lodges (Pyke River and Martins Bay Lodges), boats, backpacks, home cooking and also flight out facilities after the conclusion of trekking.

Walking season at Hollyford Track:

Lasts from October through June. Advance booking is very much important. Penguins are visible at Long Reef until New Year while seal cubs can be seen during January. February and March see summer flowers blooming while autumn weather is suitable for hiking.

Walk programmes:

• Guided Walk (2 nights): Starts in Te Anau (or Queenstown)
• Freedom Plus package starts in Te Anau.