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All About Milford Sound: A Fiordland Gem Nicknamed the "8th Wonder of the Natural World

What is Milford Sound?

Milford Sound Cruise

Imagine a place where mountains rise straight from the sea and waterfalls plunge hundreds of metres into dark, still waters. That’s Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, carved by glaciers in the last Ice Age and often called the “eighth wonder of the world.”

Located in Fiordland National Park, this 15 km fiord is one of New Zealand’s most visited destinations. Here you’ll find towering peaks, lush rainforests, and rare wildlife — from fur seals and dolphins to Fiordland crested penguins. With over a million visitors a year, it’s also the only fiord in New Zealand you can reach by road.

You can explore Milford by cruise, scenic flight, kayak, or even on foot via the famous Milford Track.

Quick Facts about Milford Sound

Milford Sound, New Zealand
  • Official name: Milford Sound / Piopiotahi
  • Location: Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
  • Topography: Glacial fiord
  • Signature peak: Mitre Peak (1,692 m)
  • Tallest waterfall: Stirling Falls (155 m)
  • Wildlife: Fur seals, dolphins, penguins, whales
  • Activities: Cruising, hiking, kayaking, heli-touring, and more things to do
  • Size: 15 km long, up to 291 m deep
  • Age: Over 2 million years
  • UNESCO status: Part of Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area since 1990
  • Visitors per year: Over 1 million

Plan your visit to Milford Sound

The scenery view of landscape of Milford Sound

Timings

  • Cruises: Multiple cruises daily
  • Guided walks: 8:30am & 8:45am
  • Day trips: From Queenstown (7:30am onwards) and Te Anau (8–8:30am, seasonal)
  • Scenic flights: Multiple departures from Queenstown daily

Best Time to Visit

Open year-round. Summer (Dec–Feb) offers long days but more crowds and rainfall. Winter (Jun–Aug) has clearer skies, snow-dusted peaks, and calmer seas.

Best time to visit Milford Sound
Couple enjoying the view at Milford Sound

Location

Milford Sound sits in Fiordland National Park, on the southwest coast of New Zealand’s South Island. The fiord runs 12 km inland from the Tasman Sea.

  • From Queenstown: ~288 km, about 4 hrs 15 mins by road
  • From Te Anau: ~121 km, about 2 hrs 15 mins by road

You can drive yourself, but many travelers opt for a coach + cruise package or fly in for a faster, scenic option. Check route maps to Milford Sound.

Getting to Milford Sound

Things to see At Milford Sound

Cruise at Milford Sound / Piopiotahi Fjord

Mitre Peak

Soaring 1,692 meters above sea level, Mitre Peak stands as the proud symbol of Milford Sound. Its jagged peaks, piercing the clouds, create a dramatic silhouette against the ever-changing canvas of the fiord.

Cruise ship approaching a waterfall in Milford Sound
Cruise at Milford Sound / Piopiotahi Fjord
Milford Discovery Centre
Harrison's Cove

Adventure activities in Milford Sound

Tourists enjoying a guided tour at Milford Sound with scenic fjord backdrop.

From soaring above the peaks to diving into its inky waters, Milford Sound is a playground for adventurers. Explore these top activities, and see our full list in Things to Do in Milford Sound.

  • Scenic flights: Take a helicopter or small plane for a bird’s-eye view of Mitre Peak, glaciers, and waterfalls. Pair with a cruise for the ultimate fjord experience.
  • Kayaking:** Paddle beneath sheer cliffs and alongside seals, penguins, and dolphins. A serene way to connect with Milford’s wildlife.
  • Hiking the Milford Track:** Tackle New Zealand’s most famous Great Walk — 53.5 km through valleys, passes, and waterfalls like Sutherland Falls.
  • Scuba diving & snorkeling: Discover kelp forests, reef fish, and Milford’s rare black coral in one of the world’s wettest, most dramatic marine environments.
  • Rock climbing: Scale Fiordland’s granite cliffs with routes for all skill levels.

History of Milford Sound

Milford Sound’s story is as rich as its landscapes.

  • Geological origins: Carved by colossal glaciers during the last Ice Age, the fiord stretches 15 km inland from the Tasman Sea.
  • Māori legends: According to tradition, the demi-god Tuterakiwhanoa carved the fiord, shaping its cliffs and valleys. Learn more about the cultural landscape in our Fiordland National Park guide.
  • European discovery: In 1812, Captain John Grono became the first European to chart the area, naming it Milford Haven after his Welsh homeland.
  • Settlement & tourism: By 1888, settler Donald Sutherland had built Milford’s first accommodation, laying the groundwork for today’s thriving tours and experiences.
  • Conservation & wildlife: Now part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Site, Milford is a sanctuary for wildlife, including endangered Fiordland crested penguins and Hector’s dolphins.

Frequently Asked Questions About Milford Sound

What is the Milford Sound?

Milford Sound, also known as Piopiotahi, is a breathtaking fiord located in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park. Carved by glaciers during the last ice age, it is often hailed as the 'eighth wonder of the world.' The fiord features towering mountains, and lush rainforests, and is renowned for its diverse wildlife.

What’s the best way to experience Milford Sound?

The best way to experience Milford Sound is to take a guided cruise or a hike through Milford Track. You can also explore the area through scenic flights, or diving.

Why is Milford Sound famous?

Milford Sound is famous for its stunning natural beauty, with peaks reaching up to 1,000 meters, cascading waterfalls, and rare fauna. It's also the only fjord in New Zealand accessible by road. The rich history dating back millions of years, coupled with its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adds to its fame.

What can I do at Milford Sound?

At Milford Sound, you can embark on cruises, trekking, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and more. The area offers a range of adventure activities for nature enthusiasts and those seeking an immersive experience.

How can I get tickets to Milford Sound?

You can book Milford Sound tours online. Consider booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.

Where is the Milford Sound located?

Milford Sound is nestled within Fiordland National Park, located in the southwestern corner of New Zealand's South Island. You can get to Milford by road; it's approximately 288 km from Queenstown and 121 km from Te Anau.

What can I see at Milford Sound?

At Milford Sound, you can witness iconic landmarks such as Mitre Peak, majestic waterfalls like Stirling Falls, interconnected fiords, and unique spots like the Milford Discovery Centre & Underwater Observatory, Harrison's Cove, Sinbad Gully, Seal Rock, and Stirling Island.

Are guided tours available for the Milford Sound?

Yes, guided tours are available for Milford Sound. You can opt for guided cruises, or walking tours, or choose comprehensive day trips from Queenstown or Te Anau. These tours provide insights into the rich history, diverse wildlife, and captivating landscapes.

What are the timings for Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is open throughout the year. Guided cruises, walking tours, and scenic flights have specific daily timings. Day trips from Queenstown/Te Anau have different schedules based on the season. It's advisable to check and plan your visit accordingly.

How much time do you need at Milford Sound?

The amount of time you spend at Milford Sound depends on your chosen activities. Guided cruises, tours, and hikes can take 2 to 5 hours, while a comprehensive exploration might span a full day. Plan your itinerary based on the experiences you wish to enjoy.

How big is Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is approximately 15 kilometers (9.4 miles) long, 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) wide, and reaches depths of up to 291 meters (955 feet). It's a sizeable and awe-inspiring natural marvel.

How old is Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is over 2 million years old, shaped by the colossal glaciers during the last Ice Age. Its age adds to the geological significance of this natural wonder.

Are there any hiking or trekking opportunities in the Milford Sound area?

Yes, the Milford Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, offers a world-renowned 53.5-kilometer trail. It provides an excellent opportunity for hiking and trekking, allowing you to immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes of the park.

What wildlife can I expect to encounter in and around Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is a haven for wildlife, including fur seals, dolphins, crested penguins, and whales. The area is also home to the endangered Fiordland Crested Penguin and Hector's Dolphin, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

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