Milford Sound in Fiordland

When it rains in Milford Sound, and it often does, dozens of 'temporary waterfalls' cascade down the cliff faces, some as long as 1000 metres.

Described by Rudyard Kipling as the 'eighth wonder of the world', Milford Sound was carved by glaciers during successive ice ages. At its deepest point, off Mitre Peak, it plunges to a depth of 265 metres.

Maori attribute the creation of the fiords to a 'titanic mason' by the name of Tu Te Raki Whanoa. With his magical adze, he sculpted Milford Sound's sheer cliffs and towering mountains.

Wet or fine, Milford Sound is breathtaking. The fiord's sides rise vertically from the dark waters, mountain peaks scrape the sky and waterfalls cascade down precipitous cliffs.

There are various ways to enjoy Milford Sound, the most accessible of New Zealand's fiords. You can take a day trip on a launch or organise an overnight stay on a charter boat. Scenic flights, sea kayaking safaris and diving excursions can also be arranged.

For a look at life below the water's surface, there's an underwater observatory in Harrison Cove. You can see black coral, 11-legged sea stars and delicate anemones, as well as intriguing snakestars that wrap themselves around the black coral.