Milford Sound Information

Milford sound has a long and interesting history, from early Maori habitation to the first European explorers. Milford Sound was recognised by early colonists as a very special place and it been visited by curious explorers for over 200 years. Nineteenth century botanists have found rare plant life and the earliest photographers have documented it’s natural wonders. Please read through some of the pages we’ve created for you to learn more about this amazing place!

Find out about: How to get to Milford Sound | Milford Sound History | Google Map

COVID-19 Update

Cruise Milford is looking forward to start operating once New Zealand goes to alert level 2. We are receiving updates from the New Zealand Government daily and will adjust our procedures according to the newest data and recommendations.

Milford Sound Google Map

We firmly believe that the drive to Milford Sound is just as important as the cruise itself. Use our Milford Sound Google Map to explore this unique area.

Fiordland’s 10 Marine Reserves

Piopiotahi Marine Reserve

Fiordland has 10 marine parks sprawling more than 10,000 hectares across southern New Zealand. Hosting a variety of wildlife and made famous by the many movies filmed in the area, Fiordland is often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world.

Fiordland Crested Penguin

Fiordland Crested Penguin

The tawaki, or Fiordland Crested Penguin, is endemic to the rainforests of Fiordland and is the second rarest breed of penguins in the world. Known for their yellow crests that stick out like bushy eyebrows and their bright orange beaks, these little birds are as commonly found amongst the ferns as they are in the sea.

Fiordland Dolphins

Fiordland Dolphin

Bottlenose dolphins from the far south of New Zealand are a common attraction in Doubtful Sound and are among the largest of their kinds. They tend to grow to about 3.5m to 4m compared to their siblings from the tropical climates of Australia who only grow up to 2.5m.

Milford Sound Weather—When is the Best Time to Visit

milford sound weather - when is the best time to visit?

Like the rest of the national park, Milford Sound needs rain to thrive. Knowing more about Milford Sound’s weather patterns and how they can enhance your experience will help you plan your trip.

Where is Milford Sound in New Zealand?

Where is Milford Sound?

Milford Sound nestled in the Fiordland National Park, it is relatively easy to access. Whether you want to hire a car or hop onto a flight, you shouldn’t have a problem getting there.

Bird watching in Fiordland

Kea

Follow some of the finest walks in the world. Journey along valleys carved by glaciers, all while on the hunt for New Zealand’s unique native birds.

Planning a Day Trip to Milford Sound

Day Trip to Milford Sound

If you’re planning a day trip to Milford Sound, you have the options of reaching the area by car, plane, or helicopter. Once you get there, a world of beautiful scenery awaits you, with plenty of unmissable photo opportunities.

Fiordland Cruises – What to See and How to Get There

Fiordland National Park

If you want to see the pinnacle of this scenery, you can’t beat a Fiordland cruise. Travelers visiting New Zealand are often enamoured by the country’s unrivalled natural beauty. Moving through areas like Milford Sound, these cruises are easy to access from areas like Queenstown.

Te Anau Accommodation and Activities

Te Anau Activities

As the best town to stay in for those looking to explore Milford Sound, Te Anau has plenty to offer in terms of accommodation and activities. Whether you enjoy going wild on the water or slow explorations, there’s something for you.

Visit Lord of the Rings Locations in Fiordland, New Zealand

lord of the rings fiordland

Thanks to Lord of the Rings that thousands of people descend upon the New Zealand Fiordland every year. Out of all of the Lord of the Rings locations tourists choose to visit, both Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound offer a broad range of filming locations between them.

Milford Sound Tours – Options & Prices

Milford Sound Tours

If you like the idea of a Milford Sound tour, you can arrive by land or air, before taking a cruise or exploring the glaciers and wildlife in the area.

Driving from Te Anau to Milford Sound

Driving from Te Anau to Milford Sound

The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is a marvel in itself. Complete with several scenic stops, it is a walker’s and photographer’s paradise.

Driving From Queenstown to Milford Sound – What to See

"Queenstown to Milford Sound Driving

Although the drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound is long, it is incredibly scenic and offers multiple opportunities for adventures and exploration. Knowing a little about the route and how to prepare for it can make your drive more enjoyable.

Bus from Queenstown to Milford Sound

Bus to Milford Sound from Queenstown or Te Anau

Taking a bus from Queenstown to Milford Sound is not only convenient, it is an affordable option for those wanting to visit New Zealand’s most outstanding area of natural beauty.

Helicopter to Milford Sound from Queenstown

helicopter to milford sound

If you wish to see some of New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery in style, consider taking a helicopter from Queenstown to Milford Cruise.

Fly to Milford Sound from Queenstown

Fly to Milford Sound and see the Southern Alps

Flying from Queenstown to Milford Sound shows how this beautiful area of New Zealand has remained wonderfully unchanged over the years. As one of the most popular tourist attractions in New Zealand, it captures the hearts of all who go there. Grabbing a flight from Queenstown to Milford Sound is seriously enticing!

Top movies filmed in Fiordland

Beautiful Scenery - Fiordland

it’s no surprise that many movies have been and continue to be filmed within the scenic passages of Fiordland. Here’s the top 10 movies filmed in Fiordland.

Walking tracks in Fiordland

Kepler Track

Get off of the beaten track on your next Fiordland adventure and enjoy some of the most scenic walks in the world.

Guided walks in Fiordland

This post will look at the different things you should consider when looking for your guided walk operator and how to prepare for the big day.

Walking the Milford Track

Milford Track

If walking the Milford Track has been on your bucket list, it’s time to start planning. One of New Zealand’s 9 Great Walks it has long been considered ‘the finest walk in the world.’
Here’s what you need to know to before you set out.

Amazing Astro Photography at Milford Sound

Milford Sound Astro Photography

This blog about Astro Photography shows how landscape photographer, Rob Dickinson captured the most amazing photo of the Milford Sound night sky that we have ever seen!