Milford Sound

We woke up very early and left the motel at 7am. We stopped at the supermarket to grab breakfast and snacks for the day. The sun was not up, and we drove towards Milford sound in the dark.

The first part of our journey was by moonlight, and we encountered some fog. After Mirror lakes, the sun started to rise, and the fog had lifted, so we were able to enjoy the stunning vistas.

We stopped at many scenic spots and arrived at Deepwater free parking at about 9:30am. We then walked the 20 or so mins to the terminal and waited a few minutes for them to open at 10am. We purchased tickets for Pure Milford, which was set for an 11am departure.

Whilst waiting, we headed out to the chair along the spit and enjoyed the views and some breakfast snacks. At 11am, we boarded and stood on the top open deck at the front. We were very glad we had layered up. The kids, however, retreated to the lower decks for some hot chocolate. The parents toughed it out in the cold for the stunning views that the camera really doesn't capture fully.

The cruise was enjoyable, and the weather was finally on our side with no wind and blue skies. Finishing at 1pm, we set off for the car and headed back to Te Anau. This time, we stopped at most places heading back, now that we could see what was there.

Arriving back in Te Anau at 4pm, we filled up the car and decided to return to The Ranch for an early dinner at 5pm. Then we headed back to the motel to sort through all the photos.Read more