Introduction
The Maori were the first to attribute the creation of the fiords to a “titanic
mason”, Tute Rakiwhanoa who hued out the steep sided valleys with keen
edged adzes. No other explanation seems to fit, as it is impossible to
comprehend the sheer breadth of geological events that created this
seemingly perfect sculpture, as sheer cliffs rise vertically upward from the
ocean. Wet or fine Milford is incredibly grand. Mitre Peak magnetises
photographers, and the fiord’s sheer cliffs excite both admiration and
apprehension. Milford is by far the best known of all of the fiords and the
only one that can be accessed by road. It is approximately 16km from the
head of the fiord to the open sea, which means visitors can comfortably
travel the length of the fiord to open ocean and return on one of the many
cruise options available in one and a half to two hours cruising time.
The Milford Road
One of the most incredible and frequently overlooked features of Milford
Sound is the journey to get there. The Milford road is a stunning alpine
drive. Visitors need to allow plenty of time to stop at the numerous viewing
points or short walking opportunities en route, just to get out of the car
and drink in the spectacular scenery and the sheer scale of the landscape.
At 119km (approx. 74 miles) from Te Anau to Milford Sound the sealed road
takes a minimum of 2 hours driving without allowing for stops. Motorists are
advised to fill vehicles with petrol in Te Anau, although supplies are
available at Gunns Camp in the Hollyford Valley and at Milford Sound.
Attractions of Milford Road
Underwater world
Yet another unique feature of the Fiordland environment is life under the
Fiord. Beneath the water, the mountains continue to plunge down as steep
rock walls until they reach the floor of the fiord at depths of 100-450m.
Few visitors are aware that below the tide line there exists a fascinating
and unique world. A fresh water layer that sits on top of the seawater
filters light to allow normally deep water dwelling species to exist very
close to the surface. A visit to the Underwater observatory or on a guided
dive tour allows access to sights rarely revealed to human visitors.
Lake
Manapouri Power to Enthral
Many discover the beauty of Lake Manapouri while en route to Doubtful Sound
without realising how beautiful this place is in its own right. As well as
the scenic wonder, LakeManapouri provide lot of attractions .As early as
1904 the hydro electric potential of the Southern Lakes was recognised .Now
a days lake levels on both Manapouri and Lake Te Anau are controlled within
the lakes natural fluctuations by control weirs at their outlets and are
watched over by an appointed body of "gaurdians of the lakes".
Milford Sound. - Twilight for the Adventurous paradise
The way to really experience the magnificence of this world famous fiord is
at water level from a sea kayak. Become part of the environment you are
observing! Paddle beneath towering granite overhangs, waterfalls, the
Pembroke Glacier and mile high Mitre Peak. Escape the crowds and explore the
grandeur of this area with your guide, interact with nature - friendly fur
seals, Fiordland crested penguins and playful dolphins frequent the Fiord. I
personally invite you to join us on one of our friendly, full guided trips
soon - Sunriser classic for enjoying the peace and tranquility, Twilighter
for the more adventurous and our Milford walk with a 15 minute kayak option
to start of track. Winter options: Fly from Wanaka and Queenstown Winter
solitude on Milford Track. Ask for us by name: Rosco's Milford Sound Sea
