Discovering Marian Corner
Marian Corner, also known as Marian Camp, is located at the beginning of the Lower Hollyford Road in the Hollyford Valley. This area is notable for its large parking space adjacent to the scenic Hollyford River / Whakatipu Kā Tuka. Visitors can find an informative board detailing the history of the road-work camp established in the 1930s to support the construction of the Milford Sound Highway and Lower Hollyford Road. Additionally, a plaque commemorates the heroic deeds of Davey Gunn in 1936.
The Legacy of Davey Gunn
Davey Gunn, born into a farming family in Waimate, Canterbury, became a significant figure in the Hollyford Valley. In 1926, he acquired land from the McKenzie family, the original settlers, and expanded his holdings in 1929 with four leases covering 25,000 acres. Settling at Deadman's Hut by the Hollyford River, Gunn developed and maintained many tracks in the area.
His fame grew in 1936 when he witnessed a plane crash in Big Bay on the West Coast. Gunn assisted the injured passengers and completed a remarkable 90 km journey to Marian Camp in just 21 hours. Following this event, he began offering tours through the Hollyford, integrating them with his mustering activities. These tours eventually evolved into guided excursions along the Hollyford Track to Martins Bay. After his passing, his son Murray continued the guided tours and transformed a work camp into Gunns Camp.
The Naming of Marian Camp
The names Marian Camp, Mount Marian, Lake Marian, Lake Marian Track, and Marian Creek all honour Marian Little. She was the cousin of Ernest Wilmot, a surveyor in Fiordland during the 1880s, and was presumably a favourite niece.
How to Get There
To reach Marian Corner, head to the corner of State Highway 94 / The Milford Sound Highway and the Lower Hollyford Road at the head of the Hollyford Valley.
Nearby, you can also visit the Lake Marian Track and walk to the Marian Creek Waterfalls and Lake Marian. Other options within a short drive include the Humboldt Falls, the remains of Gunns Camp, Christie Falls and Pops View. Continuing on the main highway takes you through the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound.
