Anchor IslandAnchor Island at a Glance
About Anchor Island
Anchor Island is a small island inside Fiordland National Park in New Zealand, identified as a conservation island within the park’s fiord landscape. It is part of the network of islands in the park that provide habitat for native birds and plants.
The island’s close marine setting and remoteness from the mainland make it valuable for seabird colonies and forested slopes; conservation work in Fiordland frequently focuses on protecting such islands from introduced pests. Visitor access is possible by sea from nearby fiords but facilities are minimal.
Anchor Island lies within the southwestern New Zealand fiord country at approximately 45.75 S, 166.5 E, among the complex coastlines and sounds that characterize Fiordland National Park. It is accessible only by boat and is subject to park regulations and conservation management.
- Conservation status: Managed as part of Fiordland National Park’s island conservation program, it is important for seabird nesting and native forest regeneration following pest control work.
Best Time to Visit Anchor Island
Summer offers the easiest sea conditions; access is by private boat and subject to DOC restrictions and weather.
Weather & Climate near Anchor Island
Anchor Island's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in February) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 6°C to 17°C. Heavy rainfall (2124 mm/year), wettest in January.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 12° - 17° | 14° | 229 mm | - | - | 7.0 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 12° - 17° | 14° | 155 mm | - | - | 6.9 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 11° - 16° | 13° | 178 mm | - | - | 6.8 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 10° - 14° | 12° | 142 mm | - | - | 6.3 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 8° - 12° | 10° | 178 mm | - | - | 7.9 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 7° - 10° | 5° | 187 mm | - | - | 7.2 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 6° - 10° | 5° | 161 mm | - | - | 6.9 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 6° - 10° | 5° | 127 mm | - | - | 6.4 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 7° - 11° | 5° | 174 mm | - | - | 8.2 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 8° - 12° | 10° | 198 mm | - | - | 7.9 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 9° - 14° | 11° | 187 mm | - | - | 8.1 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 11° - 15° | 13° | 208 mm | - | - | 6.2 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Anchor Island
Access to Anchor Island requires private boat charter from nearby Fiordland harbors; check with New Zealand Department of Conservation for any landing restrictions and biosecurity rules.
Tips for Visiting Anchor Island
- If targeting birds, bring binoculars and a local bird‑list; the island is valued for native fauna in Fiordland's complex ecosystems.
- Access is by private boat from nearby harbors-confirm landing permissions with Department of Conservation or local operators.
- Respect biosecurity: New Zealand's islands are sensitive; ensure footwear and gear are clean to avoid introducing pests.