Story: Fiords

Bowen Falls, Milford Sound

Bowen Falls, Milford Sound

Fiordland is one of the wettest places in the world. When it rains, thousands of temporary waterfalls cascade into the fiords, delivering vast quantities of fresh water that forms a layer on the surface of the sea water. As the rain water flows down the steep vegetated slopes, it picks up chemicals from rotting leaves and soil, which stain it yellow–brown.

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How to cite this page:

Paddy Ryan, 'Fiords - A unique environment', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/6334/bowen-falls-milford-sound (accessed 21 April 2024)

Story by Paddy Ryan, published 12 Jun 2006