Things to do in Milford Sound

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

Milford Sound Scenic Cruises

Take in Milford Sound on a modern and spacious Milford Sound Cruise, with unobstructed views outside the boat from any area of the interior cabin. The boat features a comfortable indoor lounge and large panoramic picture windows, allowing you to see waterfalls and wildlife up close from the bow. From the spacious upper outdoor deck, you can look directly down on the water, and the captain will provide informative commentary, and the cruise will play commentary in other languages at certain times.

2026 Global 50 - Cool Water Escapes

Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

▴Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is a world-renowned natural wonder, located in a glacial landscape within Fiordland National Park in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island. Steep, rugged cliffs rise from the calm, dark waters, dense rainforest grows on the rock walls, and waterfalls cascade from hundreds of meters high into the sea. ▴The road from Queenstown to Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is known as one of the most beautiful roads in the world, passing by many attractions along the way, such asMirror Lake, trails, and the Homer Tunnel, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and numerous small waterfalls formed by melting snow. ▴ A water cruise is the main way to fully appreciate the scenery of Milford Sound / Piopiotahi. After the sightseeing boat slowly departs from the wharf at Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, you can see the over 100-meter-high Bowen Falls, as well as marine life such as dolphins, Fiordland penguins, and seals. ▴ Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is also one of the filming locations for "The Lord of the Rings," attracting many fans to visit this place.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in South Island

Southern Discoveries - Milford Sound Cruises

Southern Discoveries offers unforgettable Milford Sound cruises, allowing you to experience one of New Zealand's most stunning natural wonders. Nestled within Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is renowned for its breathtaking views, towering peaks, and cascading waterfalls. Southern Discoveries provides a range of cruise options to suit every traveler, from leisurely sightseeing tours to more immersive nature experiences. Onboard, guests can enjoy informative commentary, comfortable seating, and panoramic views from spacious decks. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot seals, dolphins, and even penguins in their natural habitat. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Southern Discoveries ensures a memorable journey through Milford Sound's spectacular beauty, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and explorers alike.

Stirling Falls

Homer Tunnel

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

RealNZ | TSS Earnslaw Queenstown Cruise

Born in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw, known as "The Lady of the Lake," dates back to the golden age of steamships—an era that included the world-famous Titanic. Today, as a coal-fired ferry, she has been sailing for over 100 years and isLake WakatipuA charming sight that takes you back in time to experience the splendor of early 20th-century Europe. During the cruise, you can lean on the railing on the deck and gaze at the beautiful lake and mountain scenery of Queenstown, or step onto the bridge to secretly admire the captain's superb steering skills, or venture into the steam boiler room to learn how the steam engine works. △ Boat tourLake Wakatipu, you can enjoy magnificent mountain views and tranquil lake waters △ Visit the engine room and mini museum on board, listen to songs accompanied by piano, and savor the elegance of the turn of the century △After arriving at Walter Peak High Country Farm, you can view and feed the farm animals up close, and attend sheep shearing and sheepdog demonstrations

Copper Point

Glenorchy

Glenorchy's Chinese name translates to Glenorchy. Located on the north bank of Lake Wakatipu, just 45 minutes from Queenstown, it is the gateway to many hiking trails and the magical world of Middle-earth. 1. An outdoor lover's paradise This rustic town is a veritable outdoor lover's paradise. Surrounded by native beech forests and towering mountains, Glenorchy's surroundings are never lacking in excitement. Stunning Lake Wakatipu and the Dart River offer plenty of options for jet boating and kayaking, and it's a popular base for New Zealand's many walking trails. Horseback riding is also one of the most popular activities here. 2. The spectacular scenery of Glenorchy, the filming location of "The Lord of the Rings", has made it a filming location for blockbusters. The "Lord of the Rings" trilogy and "The Chronicles of Narnia" have been shot here in large numbers. Twenty kilometers from Glenorchy, as idyllic farmland is gradually replaced by beech forest, we come to the town of Paradise. The origins of the name vary, with some saying it got its name from the natural charm of the place, while others say it got its name from the ducks of paradise that inhabit it. No one can be sure of the origin of its name, but the suffocating natural beauty here has been unanimously recognized by everyone. . "This is the Middle-earth I've always fantasized about," Sir Ian McKellen (Gandalf) said of Paradise.

Southern Discoveries - Milford Sound Visitor Centre

No. 5 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

NZONE Skydive Queenstown

Gold tier trial period: October to April of the following year NZONE Skydive Queenstown in New Zealand 1. Tandem skydiving origin experience: New Zealand tandem skydiving started in Queenstown in 1990. Complete the challenge at this legendary starting point. 2. New Zealand tourism awards certification: A skydiving brand awarded by the New Zealand tourism awards, ensuring both safety and experience with double authority. 3. Queenstown core view aerial perspective: Free fall to enjoy the "S"-shaped bay of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables mountain range and the panoramic view of Queenstown. 4. 360° unobstructed "God's-eye view": Aerial panoramic vision, far surpassing cable cars and viewing platforms, truly seeing all the highlights of Queenstown at once. 5. Multiple height options suitable for all ages: Offers various skydiving height choices, available for ages 6 and up. 6. Tandem skydiving for beginners: Professional instructors provide one-on-one guidance throughout the experience, no prior skydiving experience required. 7. Complies with New Zealand safety standards: equipment, processes, and instructor qualifications have all met the high standards of New Zealand's aviation and safety regulatory system certification. 8. Scenic flight + free fall + dual gliding experience: First enjoy a scenic fixed-wing flight in Queenstown, followed by the thrill of high-speed free fall, then glide smoothly under the parachute to admire the scenery. 9. Free shuttle service in Queenstown downtown: Located in the heart of Queenstown, offering complimentary transfers year-round (weather permitting) for more flexible itinerary arrangements.