Milford Sound is located in the south west of the South Island inside
Fjordland National Park (Te Wahipouname World Heritage Site). It is considered to be one of the world’s top travel destinations and in New Zealand itself it is amongst the most popular domestic tourist destinations (over 550,000 visitors annually). The Fjordland National Park was one of the least explored areas of
New Zealand up to the early 20th century, but the beauty and magic of the cliffs, waterfalls and shining water surfaces was quickly discovered. The discovery of the
McKinnon Pass in 1888 started an early walking tourism trail. In the same year, the low watershed saddle between the
Hollyford River and the
Cleddau River was discovered. It was here where the famous
Homer Tunnel was developed about sixty years later to provide road access. Almost all tourists going to the sound also take one of the boat tours departing daily. They are offered by several companies, departing from the
Milford Sound Visitors' Centre. There is even the option of extended overnight cruises on Milford Sound – a truly unforgettable experience!