Milford Sound – the pride of the Maori and the pearl of New Zealand (11 photos + 1 video)

This fjord is the perfect place for those who love nature, adventure and breathtaking scenery.





No matter how you explore this amazing corner of nature, Milford Sound will remain in your memory as one of the most amazing places on the planet.



Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's most famous and picturesque fjords, located in Fiordland National Park on the South Island. This unique natural site is often called the eighth wonder of the world due to its breathtaking beauty. Milford Sound is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts up to a million tourists from all over the world every year.

Geography and Nature





The fjord is located in the southwest of the South Island of New Zealand. It was formed by glaciers during the last ice age. Today it is a deep valley surrounded by high cliffs and mountain peaks that rise straight out of the water.



The climate here is humid and moderate, with frequent rains. It is the precipitation that creates the waterfalls, which are one of the main attractions of the fjord.



Bowen Falls

Among the main attractions, the following deserve special attention:

Waterfalls. Lady Bowen is one of the highest waterfalls in the world, falling from a height of more than 160 meters. Stirling is another famous waterfall that is especially impressive after the rains. During boat trips you can see many temporary waterfalls that appear on the slopes after the rain.

Wildlife. The waters of the fjord are inhabited by marine life such as dolphins, seals and penguins. On land you can see rare species of birds, including the New Zealand parrot kea.

Landscapes. High steep cliffs covered with dense greenery.

Panoramic views of the mountains, including the famous Mitre Peak, which is the symbol of Milford Sound.



Stirling Falls

Here you can go boating or canoeing, walk (the Milford Track is considered one of the best walking routes in the world), explore the underwater world and even fly in a helicopter, seeing stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Interesting Facts



Kea Parrot

Milford Sound was discovered by Europeans in 1851. Captain John Lorton is considered the discoverer, but the local Maori knew about it long before that.

The name Sound is actually a misnomer, as this feature is a fjord, not a bay.

On average, it receives over 7 meters of rainfall per year, making it one of the wettest places in New Zealand.



Peak Miter