Queenstown to Milford Sound via Te Anau route planner

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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. You'll see why this region has earned a 'must see' reputation for anyone travelling to New Zealand. If you're planning to hike in Fiordland National Park, Te Anau, with its wide range of shops and eateries, is the perfect base.

Milford Road

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But wait, there’s more to show you. The Milford Road, 119km long, 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. 

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Take your time to savour the unspoiled landscape of Fiordland National Park - a precious World Heritage Area. 

Hidden gem: Mirror Lake

On a still day (and when no ducks are about), Mirror Lake perfectly reflects the scenery around it. Try to visit in the morning; that's when the light is best for photos.

Milford Sound

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Finally, as you reach the end of the road, spectacular Milford Sound reveals itself. The famed Mitre Peak 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 giant cliffs, cascading waterfalls and native fur seals. If you'd like to extend your visit, take an overnight cruise on which you can enjoy kayaking, wildlife spotting and simply relaxing in this magical place. No matter what time of the year you decide to visit, your memories of the journey are bound to be special.

• Find a boat cruise in Milford Sound

Where to next?

Milford Sound has very limited accommodation, so if you're not going on an overnight cruise it's best to head back to Te Anau. From there you might like to venture south towards Invercargill and on to Dunedin, or travel back to Queenstown to continue north or east.

• Queenstown to Dunedin via Central Otago
• Queenstown to Dunedin via Invercargill
• Queenstown to Nelson via the West Coast