Visitors are drawn by the spectacular sights of waterfalls cascading from sheer rock faces rising 1,200 metres or more from the sea, lush rain forests clinging precariously to the cliffs, and the seals, penguins and dolphins that frequent the waters. With 182 days of rain every year, Milford Sound is one of the wettest places in New Zealand however the rain creates stunning treats for visitors with dozens of temporary waterfalls created both at Milford Sound and along the Milford Road.
A number of scenic cruises are available at Milford Sound as well as an underwater observatory providing viewing of the black coral and underwater life. The famous Milford Sound Track ends with a boat ride across Milford Sound from Sandfly Point.
Milford Sound is 295km from Queenstown (4 hours 15 minutes) and 121km from Te Anau (2 hours 15 minutes). The road passes through unspoiled mountain landscapes before entering the 1.2km Homer Tunnel which emerges into rain-forest-carpeted canyons that descend to the sound. Learn more....