Milford Sounds

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There is so much to see and do in the area, but most of it comes with a price tag. After a few paychecks have rolled in we were able to go out and explore. One of the highlights of the region is Milford Sound. Technically speaking, the area is a fiordland carved out as glaciers retreated thousands of years ago. The result is lush vegetation amongst massive sheer cliffs.

We booked a day trip thorugh Mitre Peak cruises and got every penny's worth. The bus driver dueled as a tour guide and pointed out lots of interesting things along the 4-hr drive from Queenstown. We made a few stops along the way for short little walks and perfect picture opps. The road was very windy and narrow and was mostly traveled by tour buses, so we were glad not to be driving it ourselves.

We hopped on a small boat for a 2 hour cruise of the sounds. I think all the boat traffic scares away the dolphins but we did spot a couple seal families. The skipper nudged right up to the cliff underneath a waterfall. I wasn't waterproof so I stayed inside, but Josh had a great time playing in the water. On the way home we stopped in Te Anau for a 30 mintue documentary about the area. It was filmed by the some of the crew for Lord of the Rings and had great arial footage of the fiordlands.

On the way back, we watched a helicopter winch a massive bucket of water out of the lake. There was a large brush fire in the area that was inaccessible by typical means, so they used this method to put out the blaze. (Sorry Torri, I didn't get a good look at the FF, but they were mighty brave so I'm sure they wear good shoes)

We both had a great day and finally felt like we've experienced what New Zealand is all about. Once again the pictures don't

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Photos

Only a few clouds in the sky
Fiordland is known for it's dismal weather (the tour agents say it adds to the waterfalls, but that's probably just to get people to book their trip on rainy days). We lucked out and had great weather all day

Off the beaten path
The road seems to head off into the depths of the mountains, but it is very well traveled by the tour companies. The road was built during the depression as a way for the government to employ some people- their hard work definitely paid off

Milford sounds
Imagine being surrounded by this on both sides, with mountain peaks poking through the clouds and the straight opening out into the choppy sea

Glaciers
This whole area was filled with ice at one time- anyone for a margarita?

Mirror Lake
The mountain peaks are reflecting in the calm lake- I don't think it's magic, but it sure is impressive!

Tricky path
Most of the paths were short and flat, accommodating to all fitness levels (unless you are clumsy, then you're out of luck and may potentially harm yourself)

Pretty waterfalls
really- does this need a caption?

Nature's shower
Only the bravest dared to dance in the falls

Enjoying the scenic cruise
I was a bit chilly out on the deck, but with views like this you can't pass it up!

Babbling brook
There was a convenient foot bridge across the most scenic spot of the stream (a few tourist dollars never hurt anyone)

Comfy bus ride
It was a long ride, but the plush leather seats were just one of the perks.

Comments

[Christos]

Wow
You guys are awesome. I'm so happy you guys are doing all this cool stuff. Adorable!