Milford Sound, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Milford Sound, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Milford Sound, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Milford Sound, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in Milford Sound, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Milford Sound, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Milford Sound, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Milford Sound, New Zealand by month

January

If you are traveling to Milford Sound in January, you will notice that it is mild and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

Traveling to Milford Sound in February, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

March

March in Milford Sound is chilly and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in Milford Sound is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you get the correct type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

May

If you visit Milford Sound during May, you might notice that it is pretty cool and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the correct type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

June

June in Milford Sound is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

July here can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost about a third of the time. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

If you vacation in Milford Sound during August, you might notice that it is cold and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time. There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

September

In September, Milford Sound can be chilly and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Milford Sound, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

October

October in Milford Sound is crisp and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the right type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

November in Milford Sound is relatively cool and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

If you visit Milford Sound during December, you are likely to notice that it is relatively cool and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Milford Sound. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Milford Sound, New Zealand

Milford Sound is a magical place in New Zealand with breathtaking natural beauty that draws visitors from all over the world. Located in Fiordland National Park, it is the most visited and famous fjord in the country. The incredible landscapes offer stunning views of rainforest, waterfalls, and crystal-clear water, making it a great destination for nature lovers. In this article, we will explore the top tourist attractions to visit when in Milford Sound.

1. Mitre Peak:

Mitre Peak is one of the most iconic landmarks in Milford Sound with its distinctive triangular shape towering over the fjord. The peak rises to a height of 1692m above sea level and is beloved by photographers and hikers alike. Visitors can take a boat tour around the peak or hike to the top of the mountain to get panoramic views of the fjord.

2. Milford Sound Cruise:

The Milford Sound Cruise is the most popular attraction in Milford Sound. Visitors will be taken on an unforgettable journey through the fjord where they will see cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, and lush forests. The cruise also offers visitors the chance to spot wildlife such as dolphins, seals and penguins.

3. Stirling Falls:

Stirling Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is located within Milford Sound. This incredible waterfall cascades down from a height of over 146 meters into the ocean below. Visitors can take a boat tour to get up close and personal with this beautiful natural wonder.

4. Milford Track:

The Milford Track is one of the most famous hiking trails in New Zealand. The track covers a distance of 53.5 km and runs across valleys, alpine meadows, and mountain ranges. The trail offers a unique experience of exploring the wilderness of Milford Sound.

5. Underwater observatory:

The Underwater observatory is a unique attraction located in Milford Sound. It provides visitors with the opportunity to see the underwater world of the fjord up close. The observatory is 10 meters below the water’s surface and visitors can see various fish species including black coral, blue cod, and many more.

6. Kayaking and Scuba diving:

Kayaking and scuba diving are great ways to explore the beauty of Milford Sound in a unique way. Visitors can rent kayaks or hire a tour guide to take them on a kayaking tour of the fjord. Scuba diving is also an exciting activity that allows visitors to explore the underwater world of Milford Sound.

7. Mirror Lakes:

Mirror Lakes is a series of small lakes located on the road to Milford Sound. These lakes provide a mirror-like reflection of the surrounding mountains, creating a stunning landscape for visitors to enjoy.

In conclusion, Milford Sound is an amazing place to visit for those who love nature and outdoor adventures. The top tourist attractions in Milford Sound include the Mitre Peak, Milford Sound Cruise, Stirling Falls, Milford Track, Underwater observatory, kayaking and scuba diving, and Mirror Lakes. Those who visit Milford Sound are in for a treat with its stunning natural beauty, and it’s a destination that should be on everyone's travel bucket list.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Saharan Morocco, Morocco, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada, Basar, India, Numinbah Valley, Queensland, Australia, Southern Mozambique, Mozambique, Limoges, France, Chaguaramas, Trinidad and Tobago, Edgecomb, Maine, United States of America, Blue Mounds State Park, Minnesota, United States of America, Ballia, India, and Örebro, Sweden.