“Should I go to Milford Sound when it’s raining?”
That question has its own Google prompt, so it’s likely on your mind if you’re planning a trip south. But Te Anau locals are in no doubt – definitely go when it’s raining! – it can still feel like a bit of a dilemma when you’re looking out the window and sheets of rain are lashing the glass.
Having now done the trip in the rain ourselves, we can tell you – it’s incredible, stunning, magical, and absolutely worth the trip. In the rain, Milford Sound really does become the land of a thousand waterfalls, so expect to be blown away, and to get very wet.
Tip: don’t bother with an umbrella, but a sturdy raincoat and fast-dry clothes make a big difference!
Te Anau and Manapouri
Lake Te Anau is the gateway to Milford Sound, with Lake Manapouri about 20 kms away. The lakes are picturesque whether it’s rain or shine (they were extremely dramatic surrounded by mist), especially early and late in the day.
It’s worth staying in Te Anau for more than just one night – there’s the Lake to Lake cycle path, the Kepler track, and a plethora of paid activities to try out on and around the lakes.
Eglinton Valley
There are some things you won’t get to see if you drive to Milford in the rain, like the tops of the mountains that surround the Eglinton and Hollyford Valleys. However, you will see the first Milford waterfalls, swollen rivers running hard and the stunning golden grass of Eglinton Valley against a backdrop of storm clouds and mist-shrouded mountains.
Homer Tunnel and Milford-Te Anau Road
The drive between the Divide (one end of the Routeburn Track) and Milford Sound, via the Homer Tunnel, is truly spectacular in any weather. In the rain, the cliff faces are transformed by temporary waterfalls, with water cascading from all sides.
Unfortunately, you can’t stop on some stretches of the road due to avalanche and rock fall risks, but Pops View, Falls Creek and several other spots will give you good opportunities to take it all in.
Milford Sound
To explore Milford Sound, you really need to take a trip on one of the tour boats. Try to book your boat trip online in advance. While there are a few year-round waterfalls, such as Lady Bowen Falls and Stirling Falls, on a rainy day these larger waterfalls are incredible, with two or three times their usual quality of water, and hundreds of temporary waterfalls transform the landscape.
At one point during the journey the boat pokes its stern into Stirling Falls – it’s worth standing there to feel the astonishing force of the water but you will get soaked.
Want more South Island trip ideas?
Check out our recent posts about Dunedin, Stewart Island, The Catlins, Central Otago and Wanaka!