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Milford Sound is part of Fiordland National Park and is probably the most well known part of the region internationally. Amazing waterfalls course down sheer cliffs bordering the Sound, .... while Mitre Peak thrusts its almost perfectly symmetrical head through the clouds and mist creating a mystical presence . ..... the jewel in the centre of the Milford Crown.
Milford Sound with Mitre Peak the focal point is one of the most photographed scenic features in the country....and is currently on a voting list for one of the 7 Wonders of the World.
The boat trip down the Sound is a beautiful day trip. You get up close to the waterfalls....and if you are lucky should see plenty of the marine wildlife. Fur seals around the rocky shoreline entertain as they bask on the rocks with their mates.
Milford Deep Underwater Observatory at Harrison Cove
These mountains actually continue down to great depths under the water! You can visit the Milford Deep Underwater Observatory at Harrison Cove located 10 metres under the water with 360o views....... you are in a natural aquarium! You can get further information here....... or do a guided dive tour to see sights rarely experienced by people visiting.
Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound. There are also day tours or longer cruises on these two beautiful fiords.
Doubtful Sound....sometimes called The Sound of Silence is the deepest fiord. You can see plenty of marine life...New Zealand fur seals, crested penguins, bottlenose dolphins while enjoying magnificent waterfalls. If you like something active a kayak tour will give you a close up view of this all this beautiful Sound has to offer....or you could choose to cruise , take a boat tour or a scenic flight.
Lake Manapouri - is another beauty and the tours from Doubtful Sound includes a boat trip across the lake to visit the Manapouri West Arm Power Station, the largest underground power generation in the Southern Hemisphere . Manapouri is the departure point for these Doubtful Sound excursions. The power station is a fascinating experience and well worth viewing....I highly recommend you try and fit this in.
Getting to Milford Sound
There are day tours from Queenstown...and it is advisable to take the bus tour if you are planning a one day trip from Queenstown as it is a 9 hour beautifully scenic round trip. It is nice to just soak up the magnificent scenery and leave the driving to someone else.
Te Anau is the main town for independent tourists who plan to go to Milford Sound which is 119km (approx 74 miles) away. The sealed road takes a minimum of 2 hours driving.....but you should allow extra time for stops. This is a very scenic road trip with several points where you will want to stop and enjoy the magnificent views and take photos.
Motorists are advised to fill vehicles with petrol in Te Anau, although supplies are also available at Gunn’s Camp in the Hollyford Valley and at Milford Sound.
NOTE :I advise you should have a good insect repellent, especially if you are planning walks. This area has a lot of sandflies!
Milford and Fiordland Tours
You can take day tours from Queenstown or base your self at Te Anau and either take a bus from here....or drive the scenic Milford Road.