Queenstown to Milford Sound via Te Anau route planner

It begins between Queenstown and Kingston where the road follows the gentle curves of Lake Wakatipu, offering exquisite lakeside vistas framed by the rugged face of the magnificent mountain range - appropriately named The Remarkables.

Leaving the lake behind, you’ll soon pass through peaceful farmland where stock grazes happily on soft green pastures - so gentle in comparison to the imposing, seamed faces of The Remarkables and the mountains of Fiordland, just coming into sight.

Easy, rolling countryside soon leads you to the shores of Lake Te Anau - the biggest of the South Island’s many lakes. On the western side, the long arms of the lake disappear into the looming, densely forested Murchison Mountains. It's at this point we gain an insight into why this region has earned a 'must see' reputation for anyone travelling to New Zealand. But wait, there’s more to show you. 

The Milford Road starts here and it is only 119km before reaching this celebrated destination. This road is the most accessible way to experience the scenic grandeur of Milford Sound. As you approach, the landscape intensifies and steep mountain faces covered with thick vegetation edge the road. 

Take your time to savour the unspoiled landscape of Fiordland National Park - a precious World Heritage Area. Allow time for scenic stops so you can fully appreciate the beauty of the landscape and bushwalks along the way. When you get in the car again, keep an eye on the road – don’t let those steep mountain faces avert your attention! 

Finally, as you reach the end of the road, spectacular Milford Sound reveals itself. This fiord is a stunning example of Mother Nature’s creative forces, and one that never fails to impress. Milford Sound encapsulates the true spirit of New Zealand’s mysterious south. Before you, the famed Mitre Peak - one of New Zealand’s most iconic landmarks - dominates, rising more than five thousand feet above the tranquil waters of the sound. 

To fully enjoy Milford Sound's splendour, board one of the cruising boats and get up close to the cascading waterfalls. This is the best place to contemplate the moody silence that reigns across the fiord.  

Even if you don’t do a cruise, this road trip will excite your senses with these grand vistas. No matter what time of the year you decide to travel this way, your memories of the journey are bound to be special. You'll be captivated by the mystical, unspoiled beauty of the place ... it is what Fiordland does to us all. Some compare life to a journey; well, you might as well take the scenic route!