#queenstown #milfordsound #drivingandfilming #southisland #newzealand
Driving from Queenstown to Milford Sound in New Zealand is a stunning journey, offering some of the most scenic views in the country. The route takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on stops and road conditions. Here’s a general outline of the drive:
### 1. **Queenstown to Frankton**
- **Distance:** 15 km (about 15 minutes)
- **Details:** Start by heading out of Queenstown on State Highway 6 (SH6) toward Frankton. This short section is through the Queenstown suburbs and along the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
### 2. **Frankton to Kingston**
- **Distance:** 40 km (about 35 minutes)
- **Details:** Continue on SH6 southward to Kingston. This stretch offers views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Kingston is a small, quiet town where you can stop for a break or fuel up if needed.
### 3. **Kingston to Mossburn**
- **Distance:** 30 km (about 20 minutes)
- **Details:** From Kingston, continue south on SH6. This section takes you through the farming region of Southland, with expansive views of the surrounding countryside. Mossburn is a good place to stop for food or supplies.
### 4. **Mossburn to Te Anau**
- **Distance:** 80 km (about 1 hour)
- **Details:** Continue on SH6 to Te Anau, a larger town on the edge of Lake Te Anau, which is a popular base for visitors heading to Fiordland. Te Anau has a variety of services, including food, gas stations, and accommodations.
### 5. **Te Anau to Milford Sound**
- **Distance:** 120 km (about 1.5-2 hours)
- **Details:** From Te Anau, take the scenic Milford Road (State Highway 94) towards Milford Sound. The road winds through stunning mountain scenery, forests, and alongside the Eglinton Valley. There are several notable stops along the way:
- **Mirror Lakes:** A famous spot for photographs of the surrounding mountains reflected in the still waters.
- **The Chasm:** A short walk to see the dramatic, carved rock formations along the Cleddau River.
- **Homer Tunnel:** A 1.2 km tunnel through the mountains that leads into Milford Sound.
This final section can take longer, especially in winter when the weather conditions can affect driving, but the views are some of the best you’ll see in New Zealand.
### Final Destination: Milford Sound
- Upon reaching Milford Sound, you’ll be treated to one of the most famous natural landscapes in New Zealand. The fiord is surrounded by towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush rainforests. If time permits, consider taking a boat cruise to fully experience the sound.
### Tips for the Journey:
- **Road Conditions:** The road can be challenging, especially in winter, with snow, ice, and rain. Check weather and road conditions before you travel.
- **Fuel and Supplies:** Make sure to fill up on gas and stock up on snacks and water in Te Anau or earlier, as services are limited along the Milford Road.
- **Safety:** Drive carefully, especially in the more remote sections of the route, and keep an eye out for wildlife, including sheep and cows on the road.
This drive is filled with breathtaking views, so take your time and enjoy the journey as much as the destination!