Policy and FAQ's
Where is the Lodge located?
The Milford Sound Lodge is located on State Highway 94. We are approximately 1.5km from the Boat/Bus Terminal, just before the actual ‘town’.
How Far is the Lodge from the Boat Terminal?
We are about 1.5 km from the Boat Terminal, about 25-30 minutes walk.
In summer we have scheduled shuttles that can drop you off and pick you up from the cafe and Boat Terminal. When it is quiet in winter we have an 'on demand' shuttle service for guests, you would need to inform our staff to arrange a shuttle.
How long does it take to Milford from...?
All these times are approximate and depending on how many stops you'll make during the ride.
Te Anau: 2 hours
Queenstown: 4-5 hours
Wanaka: 5-6 hours
Invercargill: 4 hours
What are the road conditions like?
It is always a good idea to check the road conditions before you leave from Te Anau. Any of the Information centers and petrol stations have information on road conditions, closures and if you need to bring snow chains or not.
As the Milford Highway is a very remote and in some places very narrow we suggest you take care driving to Milford Sound.
Please obey all signs placed by road workers; they are placed for everyone’s safety.
What if the road is closed on the day of my booking?
If you have a booking with us on a day when the road is closed, we will cancel your booking for you at no charge.
If you are flying into Milford Sound, it is a good idea to ring us and let us know you're still coming in.
What do I need to bring?
As Milford Sound is a rainforest, it is a good idea to bring wet weather gear, and some warm clothing.
If you are wanting to do any of the walking tracks accessible from the Milford road, it is advisable you have a good pair of walking shoes, sunblock, an appropriate amount of food and water for the length of your walk, and, of course, your camera. Please note if you are doing an overnight walk it is necessary to bring a good sleeping bag.
If you are driving yourself into Milford Sound please ensure you have enough fuel to get here and back to Te Anau, there is currently no fuel available in Milford Sound.
Milford Sound Lodge does have a shop which provides staple food items, however it is strongly advised you bring in your own food as we have a limited supply of food here and can run out quickly due to our remote location.
What facilities does the Milford Sound Lodge provide?
When you stay at our lodge you can use our cozy lounge, hot showers, communal kitchen, cooking and dining facilities. We have coin operated washing machines, dryers and internet facilities. There is also a drying room for wet tramping gear.
Besides the facilities we have a little bar. During reception hours we are happy to make you an excellent cup of coffee and in the morning we serve continental breakfast (not included).
How can I make a reservation?
Bookings can be made by completing the booking request form on our website. Alternatively you can give us a call or send us an email. In order to confirm a reservation we require credit card details. The card will NOT be charged in advance. Payment will be required upon check in.
What is your cancelation policy?
We have a 24 hour cancelation policy. If cancelled within 24 hours and we are able to offer your canceled accommodation to someone else, there will be no cancelation fees.
Activity-providers have their own cancelation policies and we will have to comply with these. In general operators have a strict 24 hour cancelation policy.
What is there to do in the Milford area?
There is plenty to do in Milford Sound and its surrounding area, at the Milford Sound Lodge. We can book cruises, kayaking trips, flights and provide information on walks in the area. Due to the steepness of the mountains in Milford Sound proper there aren't many walks located right in Milford Sound, however the Milford Road has plenty of short and long walks to offer.
When do I need to book the Activities I want to do?
Morning and late afternoon cruises almost always have space available; however, the daytime boats fill up early. You can book your cruise anytime, when you come in or in advance online. During the whole day we have special prices for lodge guests on certain cruises. Please ask one of our staff members for the specials and we are more then happy to assist you with any bookings.
We suggest you book Kayaking trips at least 2-3 days in advance, as spaces on these trips are limited. Booking is essential especially during the summer period.
If you want to see the Fiord from the air – by plane or helicopter - it is a good idea to book on the day itself. The weather in Milford Sound can be very changeable and this can affect visibility and flight schedules.
What if it is raining?
It is very rare that cruises are canceled due to rain. Fortunately when it rains in Milford you get the opportunity to see the hundreds of non-permanent waterfalls that come to life.
Can I buy cooked food at the Lodge?
During the summer we serve continental and cooked breakfast, in winter we just serve continental breakfast. If you wish to buy lunch or dinner you can buy these from the Blue Duck Cafe & Bar. The café & bar are located in Milford, about 1 km from the Lodge. Lodge guests also get a free drink with every meal purchased from the bar, ask at reception when you check in, and we will give you a voucher.
We have coffee making facilities and can make you an excellent espresso coffee from opening until closing every day.
The lodge also has a small supply of staple food items (and snack foods) available for purchase if you find you haven't brought enough for your stay here, however we do strongly recommend you bring at least enough food for your planned stay in Milford with you, as our stock is limited.

