Milford Sound is an impressive fjord on the South Island of New Zealand. Mighty peaks, cascading waterfalls and breathtaking views make it one of New Zealand’s most famous tourist attractions.
Geography and location
Milford Sound is located approximately 70 km northwest of Queenstown and 85 km north of Te Anau on the southern part of the South Island‘s west coast. The fjord is approximately 9 mi (15.7 km) long and extends from the end of New Zealand’s State Highway 94 and the small town of the same name in a northwesterly direction, entering the Tasman Sea at its narrowest point at approximately 3,000 ft (960 m).
History and importance
Welshman John Grono discovered the fjord in 1823 and named it after a bay on the Welsh coast called Milford Haven. The British writer and poet Rudyard Kipling is said to have described it as the eighth wonder of the world after a visit in the 1890s.
Milford Sound is not only a beautiful natural landscape, but also a culturally and historically significant area. The indigenous people of New Zealand, the Maori, have a deep spiritual connection to the place. Their stories and legends contribute to the cultural diversity of the region and are closely linked to the landscape.
Natural beauty
In addition to the stunning mountain scenery, Milford Sound is also known for its many impressive waterfalls. The most famous, and visited on every cruise, are the 151 m high Stirling Falls and the 162 m high Bowen Falls.
The Stirling Falls are particularly impressive after heavy rainfall and are named after Captain William Stirling, who explored the fjord in the 1870s. Bowen Falls is the highest waterfall on site at 162 m. They are named after Diamantina Bowen, the wife of New Zealand’s fifth governor. They supply the settlement with electricity and drinking water and cascade into the fjord in two falls. After heavy rainfall you can also see temporary waterfalls on the steep cliffs along the fjord.
The fjord is also home to black coral, which is endemic to the Fiordland region. Despite its name, black coral is actually white and often displays a colourful kaleidoscope of sponges, corals and brittle stars hanging from the black coral in vibrant shades of yellow, green and orange.
Activities
The most popular activities on site include:
- Hiking: For nature lovers, Milford Sound offers many walks through the rainforest and along the coast. The most famous is the Milford Track. It passes through a varied landscape and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
- Boat tours: Take in breathtaking scenery, seal colonies and waterfalls such as the impressive Stirling Falls.
- Kayaking: For a more intimate experience, visitors can also explore the fjord by kayak. Guided kayak tours are available, allowing you to experience the tranquillity and beauty of the fjord up close.
The spectacular scenery, variety of activities and abundant wildlife make Milford Sound a must for anyone wanting to discover the wonders of New Zealand nature.
