Milford Sound :
Milford Sound Weather

Milford Sound is surrounded by rainforest and boasts one of the highest rainfalls per annum in the world. Rainfall for the area is approximately 6,500 mm over 182 days a year. It is considered a drought in the area if it hasn't rained for more than four days as the temporary waterfalls start to dry up and only the two permanent waterfalls (Bowen and Stirling) continue to fall. Milford Sound is at its most spectacular during or just after rainfall. While rain is falling the sheer cliffs surrounding the fiord turn into an enchanting and mystical wall of cascading waterfalls.

Weather forecasts for the area can be deceiving as while it may rain one moment the next the fiord can be bathed in sunshine and rainbows. During summer the average temperature is approximately 18 degrees. During the summer of 2009/10 Milford Sound recorded the national high on two separate occasions!

All Southern Discoveries cruise boats have spacious indoor areas with large viewing windows and large outdoor viewing decks to make the most of your Milford experience in any weather.

In winter the Milford Road can be shut by snow and ice with snow avalanches common around the Homer Tunnel area. All vehicles must carry chains during winter. Our information centres in Queenstown (30 Shotover Street) and Te Anau (Lakefront Drive) can provide information on the road.  For the latest road updates visit www.milfordroad.co.nz or call our reservations on 0800 264 537 (within New Zealand).