New Zealand is an island country of nature and beauty, located east of Australia in the Pacific Ocean. Made up predominantly of two main islands and nearly 600 smaller ones, New Zealand’s South Island is undoubtedly the most gorgeous among them. Officially named Te Waipounamu, and with a portion designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, South Island is home to a wide variety of cascading waterfalls, crystal clear lakes and emerald forests. Wedged squarely between the Te Waipounamu Heritage Site, the Fiordland National Park, and the Piopiotahi Marine Reserve, is the fiord (fjord) Milford Sound, also known as Piopiotahi, one of the most famous destinations in this island country. 

The fjord gets its name from the now-extinct piopio bird, also known as the New Zealand thrush, that was once endemic to South Island. Due to its idyllic location in the center of various environmental reserves, this 10 square mile stretch of land is providing a view onto luscious forests, alpine adventures, and a plethora of incredible marine mammals. From incredible boat tours passing right under waterfalls to fun activities like camping, kayaking, and trekking, this region has got something for everyone. Take a look at these 22 stunning photos to discover why Rudyard Kipling referred to Milford Sound as the eighth wonder of the world! 

1. A panoramic view of Mitre Peak, one of the most photographed mountains in New Zealand 

(By Bernard Spragg, Wikimedia Commons)   

2. The Elephant and the Lion peaks in Milford Sound 

(By Krzysztof Golik, Wikimedia Commons)  

3. Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park

(By Krzysztof Golik, Wikimedia Commons)  

4. Hollyford River, 16 miles north of Milford Sound 

(By Pseudopanax, Wikimedia Commons)  

5. Milford Road east of Homer Pass, the Road to Fiordland National Park

(By MSeses, Wikimedia Commons)  

6. Tour boat in Milford Sound 

(By Bernard Spragg, Wikimedia Commons)  

7. The Milford Track Hiking Route

(By Wuhte, Wikimedia Commons)  

8. Sutherland Falls, at the end of Milford Track 

(By Ozhiker, Wikimedia Commons)  

9. Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in South Island and the northern tip of which is where Milford Track starts 

(By Dwstein, Wikimedia Commons)  

10. A winter view of Homer Tunnel, which lies between Milford Sound and Lake Te Anau 

(By Ingolfson, Wikimedia Commons)  

11. The Wetlands of Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park 

(By Krzysztof Golik, Wikimedia Commons)  

12. The inlet of Milford Sound 

(Wikimedia Commons)  

13. Palm trees bathe in the summer sun at Milford Sound

(By Seefan 2012, Wikimedia Commons)  

14. Bowen Falls in Milford Sound

(By W. Bulach, Wikimedia Commons)  

15. Cleddau River, flowing into the head of Milford Sound

(By Willtron, Wikimedia Commons)  

16. The Docks at Milford Sound 

(By Bgabel, Wikimedia Commons)  

17. On the shores of a lake in Milford Sound 

(Wikimedia Commons)  

18. Milford Road that crosses through Homer Tunnel, linking Milford Sound with Queensland

(By Ingolfson, Wikimedia Commons)  

19. Stirling Falls, the second major waterfall of Milford Sound

(By Pseudopanax, Wikimedia Commons)   

Let’s not forget the animals that inhabit this picturesque fjord! 

20. Bottlenose dolphins swimming under a rainbow in Milford Sound 

(By Delusion23, Wikimedia Commons)  

21. Southern Right Whales in the waters of Milford Sound, often accompanied by Humpback whales

(By Leonardo Lanza, Wikimedia Commons)  

22. Milford Sound is also a popular breeding ground for the Fiordland Crested Penguin and many other penguin species

(By travelwayoflife, Wikimedia Commons)