Fiordland National Park, located in the south-western corner of the South Island, is New Zealand's largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Area. With its dramatic fjords, rainforests, waterfalls and mountain peaks, it is one of the most pristine wilderness areas on earth. The star of the park is undoubtedly Milford Sound — but there is much more to discover.

Milford Sound (Piopiotahi)

Milford Sound is technically a fiord, not a sound, carved by glaciers during the ice ages. Rudyard Kipling once described it as the "eighth wonder of the world" — and the reputation is well earned.

What to expect

  • Mitre Peak: the iconic 1,692-metre mountain that rises directly from the water.
  • Waterfalls: Stirling Falls and Lady Bowen Falls are permanent, but after rain dozens of temporary waterfalls cascade down the cliffs.
  • Wildlife: fur seals, dolphins (bottlenose and Hector's), penguins and even whales in season.
  • Rainforest: the park receives up to 8 metres of rain per year, resulting in lush, ancient rainforest.

How to visit Milford Sound

There are three ways to experience Milford Sound:

  • Boat cruise: the most popular option. Lasts 1.5–2 hours and sails past all the key highlights. Multiple operators, prices from NZ$ 60.
  • Kayaking: a more intimate experience. You paddle alongside waterfalls and fur seal colonies. Half-day trips, suitable for beginners.
  • Overnight cruise: sleep on the fiord and experience absolute silence once the day tourists have left. More expensive but unforgettable.

The Milford Road (SH94)

The 120-kilometre drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is an experience in itself. Allow at least 2.5 hours (without stops), and ideally half a day to explore the many viewpoints:

  • Mirror Lakes: a 5-minute walk to lakes that perfectly reflect the mountains (best early morning).
  • The Chasm: a 20-minute walk to spectacularly sculpted rock formations.
  • Homer Tunnel: a 1.2 km tunnel through the granite of the Darran Mountains — dramatic and slightly claustrophobic.
  • Pop's Viewpoint: your first view of Milford Sound, immediately after the tunnel.

Important: the road can be closed in winter due to avalanche risk. Check road conditions via the NZTA website before departure. Carry snow chains in winter.

Doubtful Sound (Patea)

Less visited but three times the size of Milford Sound. Doubtful Sound is only reachable via a boat trip across Lake Manapouri and a bus ride over Wilmot Pass — making it extra remote and special.

  • Silence is its defining feature: on some days you hear nothing but nature.
  • Excellent chance of spotting bottlenose dolphins, fur seals and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.
  • Overnight cruises are particularly popular here and more readily available than at Milford.

Hikes in Fiordland

Milford Track (Great Walk)

The "finest walk in the world" is 53.5 km long and takes 4 days. You walk through rainforest, over Mackinnon Pass (1,154 metres) and alongside Sutherland Falls (580 metres, one of the tallest waterfalls on earth).

  • Booking: compulsory; bookings typically open in June for the season starting in October.
  • Cost: NZ$ 70 per night per hut (peak season).
  • Tip: book on the first day reservations open — the Milford Track often sells out within hours.

Kepler Track (Great Walk)

A 60 km loop starting from Te Anau. Less famous than the Milford Track but equally impressive, with alpine ridges and views over the lake. 3–4 days.

Key Summit (day walk)

An accessible day walk of 3.5 hours (return) that starts at The Divide on the Milford Road. At the top you have a 360-degree view over three valleys. One of the best short walks in all of New Zealand.

Practical tips

  • Rain is inevitable: Milford Sound averages 182 rain days per year. But rain makes the landscape extra spectacular — waterfalls appear everywhere.
  • Sandflies: Fiordland is notorious for them. Strong repellent is essential (see our Queenstown hiking guide for tips).
  • Fuel: fill up in Te Anau — there are no petrol stations between Te Anau and Milford Sound.
  • Leave early: the first cruises are the quietest. Depart before 8:00 am from Te Anau for the best experience.
  • No mobile coverage: there is no cell reception in most of Fiordland. Download maps and information beforehand.

Fiordland is where New Zealand is at its wildest and most impressive. Rain or shine — this is a landscape you will never forget.