Is the Milford Road open?

Milford Road

The Milford Road access, at any time throughout the year, is subject to weather events and road conditions. While the road is more likely to be affected by weather events during winter, it is advisable to check the road conditions at any time of year. NZTA (New Zealand Transport Authority) runs a monitoring programme on the road to predict any risk of avalanches or rock slides to keep everybody safe. If you find the road is closed, it is because this is the safest option.

Planning your Journey

We recommend allowing plenty of time for the journey. The road to Milford Sound is more than a drive - it is an experience in itself. The landscape changes dramatically as you leave Te Anau and enter the spectacular forest and alpine environment of Fiordland. Leave extra time for stops, short walks, and photos along the way.

Staying at Milford Sound Lodge means you don’t need to rush - you can see more, soak it all in, and truly make the most of your time and experience.

Quick Facts

• Length: 120 km from Te Anau to Milford via SH94 (allow 2-2.5 hours without stops), 300kms from Queenstown (allow 4.5 hours without stops).

• Road Closures: The Milford Road usually closes some days per year, mostly in winter, due to weather, avalanches, slips, or flooding.

• Terrain: Single‑lane sections (e.g., Homer Tunnel, steep valley roads), narrow, winding, with hairpin turns and multiple scenic stop‑off points.

• Safety record: SH 94 has higher-than-average crash rates - exercise caution.

Before You Leave

Is the Road open? Check conditions before you hit the Milford Road
Weather, rockfalls, or tunnel maintenance can impact your journey. Visit the Milford Road status page or call 0800 44 44 49 for up-to-date info. We recommend doing this the night before and early before you leave.

Need to carry snow chains?
Snow chains may need to be carried between June and November. The Milford Road status page will tell you if they are necessary to be carried

Fill up in Te Anau
There are no petrol stations or shops past Te Anau. Top up your tank and grab any last-minute supplies.

Pack the essentials for all weather

• Water & snacks

• Warm layers and waterproof gear

• Insect repellent

• First-aid kit

• Fully charged phone or car charger

On the Road: Driving Tips

• Drive to the Conditions - SH94 is narrow, winding, and steep in places. Fog, rain, snow, and black ice are common - especially in shaded and alpine sections. Reduce speed and stay alert. Variable speed limits (3080 km/h) apply near the Homer Tunnel and towards Milford due to curves, weather, and safety zones

• Use Designated Pull-Off Areas - Never stop in the middle of the road to take photos. Use one of the many safe bays and scenic pull-overs to enjoy the views.

• Share the Road - If traffic builds up behind you, use pull-off areas to let others pass. Always stay in your lane, especially around corners.

• Wildlife - like Kea may be on the road, particularly around Homer tunnel.

• Avalanche zones - No stopping between the Hollyford turn-off and The Chasm during certain seasons. This will be well signposted.

• Falling rocks - Especially in steep alpine sections.

• Limited Cell Coverage - Most of the route has little to no mobile reception. Let someone know your travel plans in advance.

• Toilets - There are numerous toilets along the Milford Road at DOC campsites. We recommend flush toilets at Knobs Flat which is about half way if needed.

For more information about what to see and do in the area, visit the articles below.