What's Happening

The search continues for the 'New 7 Natural Wonders of the World' and a new online ranking system shows Milford Sound is on target to make it through to the next phase.

In early January Milford Sound was announced as New Zealand’s only representative in this exciting global competition which aims to find the seven most amazing natural sites on earth.

Online voting will continue until July when the top 77 nominations will then be considered by the New7Wonders Panel of Experts for inclusion in the 21 Official Finalists.

On Monday, January 26, a new online ranking system was launched so that you can track the success of your favorite wonder. All 261 nominees have been divided into seven category groups.

Destination Fiordland spokesperson Toni Ellis is delighted with Milford Sounds current standing. "We are sitting at number five of the ‘Seascapes’ category which, if that level of support is maintain would take us comfortably through to the top 77 in July."

The CEO of Cruise operator Real Journeys, Dave Hawkey, encourages the public to get on line and vote. "When people go to Milford Sound they are blown away by the area’s incredible landscape. It really is an amazing experience. We’re lucky to have a place like that right on our doorstep.

"In my experience, Kiwis have a huge amount of pride in Milford Sound. It would be incredibly exciting to see Milford Sound feted on the world stage as one of the seven wonders of the world."

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive George Hickton says the international competition is a huge opportunity for Milford Sound and the Fiordland Region.

"The 'New 7 Wonders of the World' competition in 2007 attracted more than 100 million votes. If Milford Sound makes it into the group of finalists for the '7 Wonders of Nature' it will be a massive profile boost for the region, and for New Zealand.

"We know that New Zealand's natural beauty is the number one reason our visitors choose to come here on holiday. Being recognised in this kind of international competition will draw attention to just how stunning New Zealand is and the natural wonders, like Milford Sound, our visitors can experience when they come down here."

Each voting stage in the Official New7Wonders of Nature campaigns is distinct from all others. This means that people who voted in the first phase can vote in this second stage—it is important to keep participating as the competition narrows!

To cast your vote or view Milford Sound’s current ranking, go to www.new7wonders.com.

For more information please contact:
Toni Ellis - Marketing Coordinator, Destination Fiordland
Phone: (03) 249 7959 Mobile: 0274791078