The variety of habitats in Fiordland allow a diverse flora and fauna to thrive and its isolation has encouraged endemism - over 700 plants are found only in Fiordland and it is, or has been, home to some of the strangest of New Zealand's birds. The takahe, for example, is a large flightless moorhen related to the more populous pukeko. It is of ancient lineage and poorly adapted to cope with introduced predators. It was even thought to be extinct until 'rediscovered' in 1948. The rare yellowhead is also resident in some Fiordland valleys.
Insect life abounds but is secretive in general.
70s Fiordland was the scene of one of New Zealand's most important conservation battles. The hydro-electricity industry was, in the end, prevented from raising the level of Lake Manapouri and it remains one of the park's scenic highlights. Getting there Located in the southwestern corner of the South Island, much of Fiordland is inaccessible by road. However the township of Te Anau is considered the gateway to the park. State Highway 94 to Te Anau branches off the main Invercargill - Queenstown Road.