Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is located in Fiordland National Park on the west coast of New Zealand. The name Fiordland stems from the many long, narrow inlets from the coast, filled with water. Glaciers carved out these inlets during the last ice age between 15.000 and 75.000 years ago and backfilled by the sea as the sea levels rose.
A sound, on the other hand, is a valley carved out by the flow of a river and backfilled by the sea. These rivers are usually V-shaped, while Fiords are mostly U-shaped.
So, to be exact - Milford Sound is a Fiord rather than a Sound.
There are a few different theories about the wrongful naming of Milford Sound. One tale tells the story of a Welsh explorer who discovered it in 1812, naming it after Milford Haven back in Wales. James Cook later added the "sound", wrongfully assuming the valley's origin. Other stories say that upon the discovery of Milford Sound, the word Fiord did not exist in the English dictionary.
The landscapes of Milford Sound are also shaped by the Alpine Fault Line, which crosses the sound from south to north. Some of Milford's incredible waterfalls run right down the fault line. Our friendly skippers will point them out to you if you join us for a cruise.
Experience the beauty of Fiordland National Park on a scenic flight with us and revel in the spectacular landscapes of Milford Sound. In the words of Rudyard Kipling: "The eighth wonder of the world" awaits you!
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