Milford Sound

Overview

Milford Sound is called the eighth wonder of the world, its dramatic fjord scenery, waterfalls and snow peaks forming a breathtaking natural panorama.

History

Milford Sound was carved by glaciers in the last ice age about 15,000 years ago, leaving cliffs that rise 1,200 metres sheer from the water. Māori know it as Piopiotahi, the place of the solitary piopio bird, and hold it sacred. European seal hunter John Grono first visited in 1823 and named it after Milford Haven in his native Wales. The Homer Tunnel, 1,270 metres bored entirely by hand, opened the overland route in 1952. It became a natural World Heritage Site together with Fiordland National Park in 1986.

Highlights

• •Sterling and Bowen Falls soaking the deck up close
• •New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks
• •The sense of scale beneath towering vertical cliffs
• •Endangered takahe wandering beside the walking tracks
• •The four-day Milford Track, often called the finest walk in the world

Practical tips

• •Join a day tour from Queenstown
• •Waterfalls are even more dramatic in the rain

Practical information

Best time

October to April

Tickets

Cruises about NZD 85 to 150; diving about NZD 225

Opening hours

Cruises depart throughout the day

Local food

Venison, seafood and honey

Getting around

The fjord region is reached by scenic flight or long-distance coach

Visa

A Visitor Visa is required and can be applied for online, with proof of funds and travel documents.

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