How To Do The Milford Sound In New Zealand
Milford Sound Preparation Checklist
1. Rain Gear
Waterproof Jacket & Pants – Essential! Milford gets rain 200 days a year.
Waterproof Boots – You’ll want dry feet, especially on the cruise deck.
Dry Bag – Keep your gear (especially cameras) safe from water.
2. Photography Gear
Camera – Any decent camera will do, but a DSLR or mirrorless will give you those dramatic shots.
Lenses – A 24-70mm for wide shots, and a 28-200mm for zooming in on waterfalls and wildlife.
Lens Cleaning Cloth – For rain and mist on your lens.
Spare Batteries & Memory Cards – It’s a photographer’s paradise, so don’t run out of juice or storage!
3. Comfort & Extras
Snacks & Water – Especially if you’re driving in or doing a longer cruise.
Warm Layers – It can get chilly, especially in the wind and rain.
Sunglasses & Hat – Even though it rains, the sun can pop out when you least expect it.
Insect Repellent – Sandflies can be relentless in the wetter areas.
4. Driving to Milford Sound
Check Road Conditions – The Homer Tunnel can close due to weather or avalanche risks, so plan for potential delays.
Fuel Up – No fuel stations at Milford, so top up in Te Anau.
Car Protection – Kea-proof your car! Watch out for these curious birds.
5. Accommodation & Tours
Booking Confirmation – Whether staying at Milford Lodge or booking a cruise, have your confirmations handy.
Extra Day Buffer – In case the weather closes the tunnel or road access, always have a backup day just in case.
6. Cruise Essentials
Seasickness Pills (Optional) – The water can get a bit choppy.
Binoculars – For spotting distant wildlife and soaking up those incredible views.
Milford Sound, A Kiwi Treasure
As Kiwis, we have a bit of a habit of claiming things. Whether it’s pavlova, Phar Lap, or this little corner of the globe we call home. But when it comes to Milford Sound, we’re not just being boastful – we may be onto something. Many would argue this is New Zealand’s 8th wonder of the world, and honestly, they’re probably right.
Milford Sound is easily one of the most breathtaking places in the country. And while you might not need sunscreen – it rains here about 200 days a year – the rain only adds to its magic. The constant downpour creates hundreds, if not thousands, of waterfalls cascading down the towering peaks, making it a photographer’s dream. Don’t believe me? Just wait until you see the photos.
The Journey Begins: Cruising Milford Sound
When you visit Milford Sound, you’re not just there to keep dry. You come for nature in its rawest form. On this trip, I hopped aboard a Pure Milford cruise, and let me tell you, it’s the best way to experience the grandeur of this place. If you’re thinking of heading out there, I’d recommend them – I’ll pop the link below for bookings.
Every time I visit, it feels like a completely new adventure. The landscape constantly shifts with the seasons, the weather, and the light. No two visits are ever the same. This time, we decided to stay at Milford Lodge, the only accommodation actually within Milford Sound itself. If you’d prefer to make a day of it, Te Anau offers some great options too. There’s also the choice of catching a Pure Milford bus or even flying in directly from Queenstown.
The Road to Milford: It’s All About the Journey
Now, not to put a dampener on things, but the road to Milford isn’t always a smooth ride. The tunnel can sometimes close due to avalanche risks or weather conditions, so it’s smart to allow yourself a bit of extra time – just in case. Personally, I’ve never had any issues in my many trips to Milford, but you never know.
That being said, the drive itself is something else. As you wind through the valleys, with towering mountains and waterfalls framing every bend, it’s like a never-ending scenic highlight reel. And then, there’s the Homer Tunnel.
Homer Tunnel
Make sure to check weather warnings, as the Homer tunnel is prone to closing.
A little slice of history, and perhaps a slightly unnerving one, it’s a narrow, steep passage right through the mountain. I’d suggest pulling over at one of the rest stops beforehand, just to take it all in (and brace yourself for a possible visit from some unexpected locals).
A Circus of Kea: The Real Welcoming Committee
Speaking of locals, you’ll likely run into New Zealand’s infamous native mountain parrot – the Kea. These birds don’t do anything by halves. They’re curious, bold, and have an unhealthy interest in your car’s windscreen wipers and door seals. But don’t worry, they’re just saying hello.
Capturing Milford: Photography Tips for the Adventurous
If you’re heading out here with your camera, you’ll want to be prepared. This time around, I packed my trusty 24-70mm f2.8 lens – perfect for those wider, dramatic shots – but I also brought along a 28-200mm lens for extra reach, which is handy when you’re trying to capture those waterfalls from the cruise deck. Trust me, when you’re that close to the towering cliffs and cascading water, you’ll want to be able to zoom in without moving too far from the shelter.
Pure Milford: The Ultimate Cruise Experience
The Pure Milford cruise is a solid four-hour trip and takes you up close to some of the most spectacular sights in the sound. Having done a few of these trips, I’ve got to say this one impressed me the most. Good food, smooth sailing (even with a bit of sea swell), and the views were unbeatable. You’ll get right up next to those towering waterfalls, and even better – they let you out on the deck to feel the spray (provided you’re prepared for the inevitable soaking).
The Importance of Rain Gear: Trust Me, You’ll Need It
Given Milford’s reputation for rain, it’s a good idea to come prepared. There’s no such thing as too much rain gear here – you’ll want to stay dry while still enjoying the deck and those waterfall views. If you’ve got the right gear, you can embrace the full experience without worrying about the weather ruining your day.
Conclusion: A Place That Never Fails to Impress
There’s something truly special about Milford Sound. It’s a wild, untouched landscape that gives you a sense of pride to call New Zealand home. The constant shifts in weather, light, and landscape mean no two days are ever the same. Every visit just reminds me of how lucky we are to have this natural wonder right in our backyard.
If you’ve never been, it’s time to add Milford Sound to your list. Just make sure to pack your rain jacket – and maybe a spare. You’ll thank me later.
