Milford Sound | Queenstown

Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's most iconic and breathtaking natural attractions, located in the southwestern part of the South Island, within Fiordland National Park. Often referred to as the "eighth wonder of the world," Milford Sound is a fjord that offers dramatic scenery, including towering cliffs, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and clear waters. Here’s a detailed exploration of what makes Milford Sound so special:

1. Geography and Formation

Milford Sound, despite its name, is actually a fjord—a long, narrow inlet formed by glacial activity. The fjord is surrounded by some of the steepest mountains in New Zealand, including Mitre Peak, which rises 1,692 meters (5,551 feet) above the water, creating a spectacular backdrop. It is part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area, which is known for its pristine natural beauty.

The fjord is approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) long and 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) wide, with the Tasman Sea to the west. It was carved over millions of years during the ice ages, with glaciers forming the dramatic, steep-sided landscape.

2. Weather and Climate

Milford Sound is known for its incredibly high rainfall, receiving around 6,800 millimeters (270 inches) annually. This makes it one of the wettest places in New Zealand. The abundant rain results in numerous spectacular waterfalls, especially during or after a rainstorm. The weather can change rapidly, and while it can often be overcast or rainy, this only enhances the dramatic scenery.

On clearer days, however, the fjord is bathed in sunlight, revealing stunning mountain peaks, and the reflections in the calm waters can be absolutely mesmerizing.

3. Wildlife

Milford Sound is home to a range of unique and abundant wildlife, both on land and in the water:

• Dolphins: Hector’s dolphins and bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted in the fjord. These playful creatures can often be seen swimming alongside boats.
• Seals: The fjord is home to a large population of New Zealand fur seals. These can often be seen sunbathing on the rocks along the shore, particularly near the Seal Colony at the entrance of the fjord.
• Penguins: The area is occasionally visited by the endangered yellow-eyed penguins, as well as Fiordland crested penguins, although sightings are rarer.
• Birdlife: Milford Sound is rich in bird species, including the kea, a large alpine parrot, and the south island rock wren, which is found only in the area.

4. Cruises and Boat Tours

One of the best ways to experience Milford Sound is by taking a cruise on the fjord. Boat tours depart regularly from the terminal at Milford Sound, offering visitors a chance to explore the fjord from the water. These cruises typically last around 1.5 to 2 hours and provide excellent opportunities to see the stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Some of the most notable waterfalls in Milford Sound include Stirling Falls and Bowen Falls, both of which are especially impressive after heavy rainfall. The sheer scale of these waterfalls, which tumble hundreds of meters down the cliffs, is awe-inspiring.

There are also options for overnight cruises on the fjord, allowing visitors to experience the serene beauty of Milford Sound under the stars.

5. Scenic Flights

For a truly breathtaking perspective of Milford Sound, consider taking a scenic flight by plane or helicopter. From the air, you can witness the dramatic scale of the fjord and surrounding mountains, offering a unique and unforgettable view of the region. Flights typically depart from Queenstown, Te Anau, or Milford Sound itself.

6. Hiking and Walking Tracks

There are a number of hiking and walking trails in and around Milford Sound that allow visitors to experience the region's natural beauty up close:

• The Milford Track: One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, this famous 53.5-kilometer (33-mile) hike spans four days and takes hikers through lush rainforests, past crystal-clear lakes, and alongside mountain ranges. It finishes at Sandfly Point near the mouth of Milford Sound.
• Key Summit Track: A shorter, 3-4 hour return walk that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and fjord landscapes. The track connects to the Milford Track and is suitable for those with less time.
• Milford Sound Foreshore Walk: This is a short, easy walk along the foreshore of Milford Sound, providing stunning views of the fjord and the surrounding peaks.

7. Fiordland National Park

Milford Sound is part of Fiordland National Park, one of the largest and most remote national parks in New Zealand, covering over 1.2 million hectares. The park is home to a wide variety of ecosystems, ranging from dense rainforests to alpine meadows, and is a haven for hikers and nature lovers.

Some other nearby attractions in Fiordland include:

• Doubtful Sound: Another stunning fjord in the area, often quieter and more remote than Milford Sound.
• Te Anau: The closest town to Milford Sound, serving as a gateway to Fiordland, with a range of accommodation options.

8. Accessing Milford Sound

Milford Sound is located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Te Anau, a small town located at the edge of Fiordland National Park. While it is accessible by car, the journey to Milford Sound is quite scenic but also challenging, with winding roads and mountain passes. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours from Te Anau, or around 5 hours from Queenstown.

There is also the Milford Sound Scenic Coach Cruise option, which combines a bus trip through Fiordland National Park with a boat cruise on the fjord, providing a relaxing way to experience the region.

9. Cultural Significance

Milford Sound has great cultural significance for the Māori people. The region is known as Piopiotahi in Māori, named after the now-extinct piopio bird, which once lived in the area. According to Māori legend, Milford Sound was created by the demi-god Tūtahi, who carved the fjord with his magic staff.

Conclusion

Milford Sound is one of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in New Zealand, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Whether you’re enjoying a boat cruise, hiking the surrounding trails, or marveling at the fjord’s natural beauty from a scenic flight, Milford Sound offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Its awe-inspiring views, rich wildlife, and stunning waterfalls make it a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.