The best way to experience Milford Sound's majestic beauty is on a scenic Milford Sound cruise. Nestled in the heart of Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is one of the most stunning places in New Zealand.
Famous for its powerful waterfalls, dramatic mountains rising from the waters and the kilometre-high Mitre Peak. Visitors are transported to a prehistoric world and immersed in raw New Zealand nature. Experience it all on a scenic cruise with RealNZ. Choose from a Day Cruise, Overnight Cruise, or Premium Cruise, with coach and flight transport options available.
How ever you choose to experience Milford Sound, let us take you on an adventure you'll never forget. Grab your camera and join us in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Grab your camera and join us in one of the most beautiful places on earth – Milford Sound.
In Milford Sound you’ll see towering cliffs and peaks – including the much photographed and iconic Mitre Peak that rises more than a kilometre straight out of the sea. Waterfalls cascade into the fiord and luxuriant rain forest clings to sheer rock faces in this breathtaking place.
Milford Sound Nature Cruise
You can travel to Milford Sound in our custom-built glass roofed coaches so you won’t miss views of the mountains, glaciers and rainforest … yep, you’ll need the camera on the coach. Or for a different perspective of Milford Sound, take a scenic flight from Queenstown.
Once there, join a Scenic cruise or go on a more leisurely and informative Nature cruise. For an immersive Milford experience, join one of our overnight cruises aboard our traditionally designed scows.
To explore this magnificent area in a more intimate way and at sea level, our sea kayaking adventures are perfect.
However you choose to experience Milford Sound and whatever its mood - teaming with rain, shrouded in mist or glistening in the sun – prepare to be inspired!
About Milford Sound
Milford Sound is the most well-known and most accessible of all the fiords in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, a World Heritage Area. Its 16 kilometre (14 nautical miles) length is lined by sheer rock faces that soar 1,200 metres (3,900 ft) or more from the water. At 1692 metres, the iconic Mitre Peak is a spectacular sight and New Zealand’s most photographed mountain.
Milford Sound is in the heart of a rainforest (annual rainfall is 6,813mm or 268 inches) which creates walls of temporary waterfalls on a wet day receding to just two permanent waterfalls (Lady Bowen Falls and Stirling Falls) in drier conditions.
Glorious on a fine day, Milford Sound’s ethereal, moody beauty in the rain is equally spectacular.
To explore this magnificent area in a more intimate way and at sea level, our sea kayaking adventures are perfect.
Getting There
The journey to Milford Sound is just as spectacular as the destination itself, whether you travel by road or by air.
Milford Sound is around 5-6 hours (one-way) from Queenstown and around 3 hours from Te Anau by road.
We have specially designed luxury coaches with experienced drivers that can get you there from both these towns or if you prefer we can get you there on one of our scenic flights. You could also drive yourself to Milford Sound.
The famous Milford Road
The best way to enjoy the Milford Road, one of the world’s finest alpine roads without having to worry about the often tricky driving conditions, is on one of our coaches. Our experienced coach drivers know all the right places to stop and take in the magnificent views of the Milford Road. Along the way, they will provide you with informative commentary about the region, its history and natural surroundings.
Our flights and coaches connect with our cruises. We can also organise helicopter flight connections if preferred.
If you decide to self-drive, do overnight in Te Anau as the trip to Milford and back from Queenstown can get very tiring. Also, leave plenty of time to stop at the many scenic trails and sightseeing lookouts along the way.
Milford Sound is one of the wettest places in the world with a mean annual rainfall of 6813mm (268 in). It rains for around a 180 days of the year, with rainfall reaching 250mm (10 in) over a 24 hour period.
The temperature in Milford can vary depending on the season and can go from an average high of around 19C in summer (Dec - Feb) to around 9.5C in winter (Jun - Aug).
Flora & Fauna of the region
Tenuously clinging to the steep rock faces of the fiord, the beech tree canopy towers over a rich green world where ferns, mosses and lichen flourish. Shallow rooted, this ecosystem depends on heavy rainfall for survival - the same rain which causes massive slips often sending whole tracts of forest crashing into the water below.
Native New Zealand birds thrive in this nearly untouched wilderness – tui, bellbirds, kea and even the rare kakapo and takahe. Colonies of New Zealand fur seals and other sea life thrive in the fiord which is home to a marine reserve. Bottlenose dolphins, Fiordland Crested Penguins and little penguins are also resident in the fiords.
The high rainfall has also created a unique underwater environment - as fresh water drains through the lush forests, it becomes stained with tannins to the colour of strong tea. This dark water sits on top of the seawater blocking light and allowing normally deep sea life to exist in relatively shallow waters. The fiords support the world's biggest population of black coral trees - about seven million colonies, some of them up to 200 years old. They are home also to brachiopods; primitive clam-like animals that have been bypassed by evolution, remaining unchanged in over 300 million years.
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History
Milford Sound is believed to have been discovered by the Maori over 1,000 years ago. They named the sound Piopiotahi after the legend of a single Piopio bird which flew here mourning the death of its partner.
Milford Sound was well known to Maori but not discovered by Europeans until 1812 when Captain John Grono named it Milford Haven after his homeland in Wales. Its name was later changed to Milford Sound by Captain John Lort Stokes.
The fiord’s natural beauty soon became well known. The Mackinnon Pass was discovered in 1888 and soon became part of the Milford Track – now one of the world’s great walks and the Homer Tunnel was developed in 1954 to provide road access to the fiord.
The popular origin of why Milford Sound was called Piopiotahi by local Maori was that it came from a native bird, the piopio, now thought extinct.
Legend has it that when mythical adventurer Māui died, a single piopio flew to the sound in mourning.
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Milford Sound FAQs
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Where is Milford Sound?
Milford Sound, also known as Piopiotahi, is situated in the southwest corner of New Zealand's South Island. As the northernmost fiord in Fiordland National Park, Milford sits just north of Te Anau and opens out to the Tasman Sea.
Why is Milford Sound so special?
Milford Sound is special for several reasons. Firstly, its incredible beauty sets it apart as a mountainous haven, often regarded as an unofficial wonder of the world. With numerous waterfalls, teeming marine life, and a lush rainforest, Milford Sound captivates all its visitors. Beyond its scenery, the journey there, winding through the picturesque Fiordland National Park, becomes a lifelong memory for travellers. Milford Sound carries cultural significance in Māori heritage, serving as a treasured location for precious greenstone varietals, valued for their delicate qualities.
How do you get to Milford Sound?
You get to Milford Sound by travelling along the scenic Milford Road (Highway 94) through the incredible Fiordland National Park. Read our detailed blog on how to get to Milford Sound.
Can I stay in Milford Sound?
Accommodation options in the heart of Milford Sound are quite limited. The only accommodation available is Milford Sound Lodge, the only public lodge catering to independent travellers. This lodge not only provides chalets but also serves as a campervan park.
It's important to note that Milford Sound, being a National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site, strictly prohibits freedom camping, and Department of Conservation campgrounds are limited. Further outside of the center of Milford Sound, the nearest campground is the ‘Cascade Creek Campsite’ along the Milford Road. This standard campsite is suitable for larger vehicles, and reservations are necessary due to its popularity. Beyond that, the closest hotels are in Te Anau, about 2 – 2.5 hrs from Milford Sound.
What is the closest town to Milford Sound?
The closest town to Milford Sound is Te Anau, located approximately a 2.5-hour drive away. Te Anau offers the nearest fuel station, restaurants, cafes, supermarkets, and a range of accommodation options including hotels and hostels.
What is the best month to visit Milford Sound?
The best time to visit Milford Sound depends on your preferences. For warmer weather and sunshine, visit during New Zealand's summer months of December and January. For a dramatic display of waterfalls, plan your trip in the winter months of June to August, when rainfall is more frequent. Each season offers unique displays, so choose according to your own adventure.
Is Milford Sound worth it in the rain?
Visiting Milford Sound in the rain is not just worth it, it's a unique and magical experience! Unlike typical preferences for sunny weather, Milford Sound truly comes alive in the rain. The rain adds a moody atmosphere, transforms the landscape, and fuels an impressive display of hundreds of waterfalls cascading down the rugged mountains. Being one of the wettest places on earth, the chances of encountering rain are quite high, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a real picturesque location.
Do you need to book Milford Sound in advance?
If you have a particular date in mind for your Milford Sound adventure, it's crucial to plan. We strongly advise booking your tours, accommodations, and cruises in advance to secure your preferred dates and avoid any potential disappointment. For those with flexible travel dates, there may be some flexibility in booking closer to your desired time. Keep in mind that Milford Sound’s peak season is summer, so the sooner you book, the better.
Is Milford Sound actually a sound?
Milford Sound is actually classified as a fiord, different to a sound. Unlike sounds, which are a result of river valleys becoming submerged by the sea, fiords like Milford Sound are shaped by the gradual erosion of ancient glaciers. Despite this, Milford Sound earned its name from European explorers who found it to be a secure and sheltered harbour, using the term 'safe and sound' in a metaphorical sense.
What's the difference between Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound?
Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are both fiords in Fiordland National Park. Milford Sound is immense, with dramatic towering mountains, and plenty of waterfalls tumbling from cliffs. Doubtful Sound on the other hand is three times longer than Milford Sound, with more arms, lush greenery, and native wildlife. Milford Sound is reachable by car the entire way, while Doubtful Sound requires a boat and coach transfer due to its secluded location.
What's the difference between the Milford Sound cruises?
At RealNZ, we have numerous Milford Sound cruises for you to choose from.
If you’ve selected a day cruise, you can choose how you cruise from our fleet of vessels, which all offer slightly different cruising experiences, departure times, and food menus.
Where do Milford Sound cruises leave from?
All Milford Sound cruises depart from the centrally located Milford Sound Visitor Terminal and return to the same point. You can find the terminal at Milford Sound Visitor Terminal, Milford Sound 9679, and contact them at +64 3 249 6000.
Will I see wildlife in Milford Sound?
Nestled in the Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is a haven for diverse native wildlife. From the lush rainforest canopy to the deep waters of the sound, various habitats provide an ideal environment for a range of species. Keep an eye out for the kea, dolphins, seals, penguins, and numerous seabirds.
Exploring Milford Sound offers a unique opportunity to witness these creatures in their natural habitats. Whether you're walking through the temperate rainforest, driving the mountain road, or embarking on a scenic cruise, the chances of encountering wildlife are high. However, it’s important to note that wildlife is unpredictable by nature, and sightings are not guaranteed.
Is there parking available in Milford Sound?
Both paid and free parking are available in Milford Sound. The main car park in Milford Sound is the closest to the Visitor Terminal and is clearly signposted as you enter the small village centre. It is only a 5 - 10-minute walk along a beautiful path with views of the fiord and costs an hourly rate of $10. The free parking is slightly further away from the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal, about a 25-minute stroll along a scenic forested pathway and is located at Deepwater Basin Road. You should allow 45 minutes to 1 hour to park your vehicle and transfer to the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal, where you should check-in for your cruise 20 minutes prior to departure.
Can you do Milford Sound in a day?
You can do Milford Sound in a day with various transport options. The most popular choice is a coach day trip from Queenstown or Te Anau, allowing you to return in time for dinner. For a quicker option, consider a scenic flight to Milford Sound, saving up to 9 hours of travel time and offering even more stunning views.
Is Milford Sound the wettest place on earth?
Milford Sound, on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, is actually one of the wettest places on earth! It receives up to seven meters of rain annually and experiences rainfall on 182 days each year, making it the wettest inhabited place in New Zealand and one of the wettest in the world.
Are there any natural hazards and risks I should be aware of when visiting Milford Sound?
Visitors to Milford Sound should be aware of various natural hazards, including earthquakes, tsunamis, severe weather events, flooding, landslides, and avalanches. The Alpine Fault, capable of producing Magnitude 8 earthquakes, poses a significant risk of triggering landslides and tsunamis, while the area's mountainous terrain and high rainfall lead to frequent landslides and potential road closures due to flooding and avalanches. Learn more here.
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