Milford Magic
You’ll soon fall in love with the ‘eighth wonder of the world’ on an amazing trip with RealNZ.
It was English novelist Rudyard Kipling who, on a visit to New Zealand’s Piopiotahi Milford Sound in the 1890s, famously declared it the ‘eighth wonder of the world’. Those who visit this special part of Aotearoa would find it hard to disagree. With thundering waterfalls that cascade over steep cliffs, untouched rainforests and deep, reflective waters where wildlife abounds, there is something quite magical about this corner of the world. Despite its name, Milford Sound, nestled in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Te Wāhipounamu, is actually a fiord, formed by the erosion of ancient glaciers millions of years ago.
Due to its remote location and protected status, there are only a handful of operators able to run tours and cruises in Milford Sound. RealNZ comes from the unique point of view of being a conservation business that’s enabled by tourism. The business has pioneered environmentalism from the very beginning, started by Les and Lady Olive Hutchins in 1954 as a by-product of New Zealand’s first conservation movement to stop the raising of the levels of lakes Manapouri and Te Anau. Today, RealNZ’s purpose is to inspire conservation by helping people fall in love with the places that need protecting. Many of the conservation projects they support, such as the Cooper Island Restoration Project, are focused on protecting native wildlife and restoring Aotearoa’s natural environment.
WONDERS IN A DAY
One of the special things about Milford Sound is that it is the only fiord in New Zealand that is accessible by road, giving visitors the rare opportunity to experience its unspoilt beauty in a day. One of RealNZ’s most popular offerings is its Milford Sound day trip. With its high windows, outward-facing seating and stunning rooftop deck with 360-degree views, the newly refurbished Milford Haven is the perfect base for a comfortable day cruise around the mighty mountain peaks and cool waters.
As the boat glides along, hear stories from the knowledgeable guides about this unique part of the world, and how it was formed over 600 million years ago. With comfort in mind, the Milford Haven has been designed as a cruising bar and restaurant. Guests can enjoy sweet and savoury delights from the café-style menu, fresh barista coffee and a selection of Kiwi wine and beer, all while taking in spectacular views.
SLEEPING IN THE SOUND
“REALNZ IS A CONSERVATION BUSINESS ENABLED BY TOURISM.”
If you’ve got a little more time on your hands, RealNZ’s Milford Sound overnight trip is a true bucket list experience. The iconic Milford Mariner is your home for the night, in private cabins with ensuite bathrooms or bunk-style compartments. Departing in the late afternoon, you’ll cruise through the ancient fiord, guided by nature specialists who explain the history, geology and wildlife of the area. After anchoring in a sheltered cove, visitors have the chance to explore on small boats or kayaks, and maybe even spot some of the seals, dolphins and penguins that live in these beautiful waters. As the sun begins to set over the peaks, enjoy a three-course buffet dinner prepared by the on-board chef, before gazing at the stars from the deck or unwinding in your cosy cabin.