Things to do in Milford

Timaru · 18.3 km from Milford

9 reviews

Caroline Bay Association is located in Timaru, Canterbury, and is a mesmerizing coastal destination. Facing the vast South Pacific to the east, its prime location makes it an ideal spot for watching the sunrise. In the early morning, when the first rays of sunlight pierce through the clouds and spill onto the shimmering sea, the sky and ocean are painted in brilliant colors, creating a breathtaking scene that attracts many tourists and photography enthusiasts. The area around the bay is dotted with uniquely shaped reefs, which have been sculpted by time, adding a distinct charm to the beach with their unique forms. Strolling along the beach with the soft, fine sand slipping between your toes is a relaxing experience. It is also a great place to get close to marine life. It is said that you can sometimes see the graceful sight of dolphins leaping out of the water, and you might even have the chance to encounter the rare yellow-eyed penguin. Nearby, there are also a skate park, swimming area, and bike park, catering to the athletic needs of visitors of all ages.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

RealNZ | TSS Earnslaw Queenstown Cruise

9.8

4.7/5

630 reviews

Born in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw, known as "The Lady of the Lake," dates back to the golden age of steamships—an era that included the world-famous Titanic. Today, as a coal-fired ferry, she has been sailing for over 100 years and isLake WakatipuA charming sight that takes you back in time to experience the splendor of early 20th-century Europe. During the cruise, you can lean on the railing on the deck and gaze at the beautiful lake and mountain scenery of Queenstown, or step onto the bridge to secretly admire the captain's superb steering skills, or venture into the steam boiler room to learn how the steam engine works. △ Boat tourLake Wakatipu, you can enjoy magnificent mountain views and tranquil lake waters △ Visit the engine room and mini museum on board, listen to songs accompanied by piano, and savor the elegance of the turn of the century △After arriving at Walter Peak High Country Farm, you can view and feed the farm animals up close, and attend sheep shearing and sheepdog demonstrations

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

Milford Sound Scenic Cruises

9.5

New Zealand · Milford Sound

361 reviews

Take in Milford Sound on a modern and spacious Milford Sound Cruise, with unobstructed views outside the boat from any area of the interior cabin. The boat features a comfortable indoor lounge and large panoramic picture windows, allowing you to see waterfalls and wildlife up close from the bow. From the spacious upper outdoor deck, you can look directly down on the water, and the captain will provide informative commentary, and the cruise will play commentary in other languages at certain times.

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

Whale Watch Kaikoura

9.4

212 reviews

Whale Watch Kaikoura is an iconic marine experience in Kaikoura on New Zealand's South Island. What makes the Kaikoura waters unique is a submarine canyon approx. two kilometers deep that runs close to the coast, creating a rich marine food chain that keeps sperm whales in nearshore waters year-round—making it one of the few places in the world where wild sperm whales can be viewed up close throughout the year. After setting out to sea by boat, a common sight is a massive male sperm whale surfacing to blow a spout, then raising its tail flukes high and diving deep into the sea, with a single dive typically lasting several tens of minutes. Along the way, there is also a chance to encounter pods of dusky dolphins, known for their acrobatic flips and leaps, with a single pod numbering up to several hundred; Hector's dolphins are a small dolphin species endemic to New Zealand, appearing in small groups near the coast and are quite rare; New Zealand fur seals also often rest on the rocks along the route. Migratory cetaceans such as humpback whales and killer whales occasionally appear, mostly in the winter months. The landscape of Kaikoura, backed by snow-capped mountains and facing the sea, is itself an impressive sight during the voyage. Weather at sea is changeable, and trips may be canceled when the wind and waves are strong, so checking the day's sailing conditions before you set out can save you an unnecessary trip.

New Zealand · Kaikoura

No. 5 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

NZONE Skydive Queenstown

8.9

190 reviews

Gold tier trial period: October to April of the following year NZONE Skydive Queenstown in New Zealand 1. Tandem skydiving origin experience: New Zealand tandem skydiving started in Queenstown in 1990. Complete the challenge at this legendary starting point. 2. New Zealand tourism awards certification: A skydiving brand awarded by the New Zealand tourism awards, ensuring both safety and experience with double authority. 3. Queenstown core view aerial perspective: Free fall to enjoy the "S"-shaped bay of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables mountain range and the panoramic view of Queenstown. 4. 360° unobstructed "God's-eye view": Aerial panoramic vision, far surpassing cable cars and viewing platforms, truly seeing all the highlights of Queenstown at once. 5. Multiple height options suitable for all ages: Offers various skydiving height choices, available for ages 6 and up. 6. Tandem skydiving for beginners: Professional instructors provide one-on-one guidance throughout the experience, no prior skydiving experience required. 7. Complies with New Zealand safety standards: equipment, processes, and instructor qualifications have all met the high standards of New Zealand's aviation and safety regulatory system certification. 8. Scenic flight + free fall + dual gliding experience: First enjoy a scenic fixed-wing flight in Queenstown, followed by the thrill of high-speed free fall, then glide smoothly under the parachute to admire the scenery. 9. Free shuttle service in Queenstown downtown: Located in the heart of Queenstown, offering complimentary transfers year-round (weather permitting) for more flexible itinerary arrangements.

No. 3 of Night Attractions in New Zealand

Skyline Queenstown

8.8

4.7/5

751 reviews

Skyline Queenstown is located atop Bob's Peak in Queenstown, a viewpoint overlooking downtown Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the distant mountains. The cable car boarding point is just a few minutes' walk from downtown, and the southern cable car takes you up to the summit. The summit observation deck offers an expansive view of about 220 degrees, framing the Queenstown town, lake, and distant mountains together; at sunset, the shifting light and shadows make the scenery especially captivating. The summit is more than just an observation deck—it also brings together a variety of activities. In addition to sightseeing, there is a very famous Stratosfare restaurant that serves dishes made with local New Zealand ingredients in buffet style, allowing you to dine while enjoying the panoramic lake and mountain views through floor-to-ceiling windows—an iconic dining experience at the summit. △ Ride the cable car and enjoy the town views △ 220-degree bird's-eye view of distant alpine lakes △ Experience more thrilling rides

No. 9 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

Mount Cook Helicopter Experiences

8.5

4.2/5

50 reviews

Mount Cook Helicopter Experiences take you soaring over Mount Cook National Park, offering breathtaking aerial views of vast glaciers and snowfields. Feel the majestic embrace of towering mountains from high above as your helicopter navigates through narrow ridges before landing on alpine terrain, where you'll marvel at the park's spectacular scenery. During this unforgettable journey, you'll witness natural wonders like the Tasman Glacier and Hooker Valley from above, experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of glacial landscapes and snow-capped peaks. Under the guidance of professional pilots, you'll enjoy low-altitude flights for close-up observations of glacial crevasses and ice caves while learning about glacial formation processes. More than just a visual feast, Mount Cook Helicopter Experiences offer a profound spiritual awakening amidst nature's grandeur.

New Zealand · Glentanner

No. 11 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

Shotover Jet Queenstown

8.3

206 reviews

Shotover Jet Queenstown is the iconic speedboating experience in Queenstown, operating continuously in the Shotover Canyon since the 1960s and having hosted millions of travelers. It is also the only commercial speedboat company permitted to operate in this section of the canyon river. The river channel was formed by years of erosion from rapid currents, with nearly vertical rock walls on both sides enclosing the water surface. Located less than a ten-minute drive from Queenstown town center, it is now owned and operated by the local Māori tribe, Ngāi Tahu, whose ancestors once traveled this waterway to gather food and greenstone. The bright red speedboats are locally built in Queenstown, specifically designed for the canyon river. Each boat can carry over ten passengers and is powered by twin V8 engines, using jet propulsion for movement, steering, and control—allowing it to skim at speeds of nearly 90 km/h in water as shallow as approx. 10 cm. The entire experience lasts approx. 25 minutes, featuring continuous sharp turns and cliff-hugging maneuvers from the moment you depart the dock. Skilled drivers take you at high speed through whitewater rapids and tight bends, performing thrilling close-to-the-wall stunts, including the signature 360-degree spin at full throttle, sending water splashing into your face as if the boat has lifted off the surface. Life jackets and storage lockers are provided on board. As the spins generate significant splashes, it is advisable to prepare to get wet. During colder seasons, extra attention to warmth is recommended.

No. 15 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

Real Guns New Zealand

7.8

17 reviews

Real Guns New Zealand is a shooting experience venue located in Cardrona, Otago, New Zealand. The environment here combines New Zealand's unique natural scenery with professional shooting facilities, providing visitors with a unique experience opportunity. The venue is surrounded by magnificent mountains and open grasslands, which add to the fun and challenge of shooting activities. Real Guns New Zealand offers a variety of shooting programs suitable for visitors of different interests and experience levels. Accompanied by professional instructors, visitors can safely experience the fun of shooting. The venue is fully equipped to ensure the safety and comfort of the activities. Whether it is a beginner or an experienced shooting enthusiast, it can provide an unforgettable experience. Real Guns New Zealand is not only a shooting venue, but also a good place to experience New Zealand's natural beauty and outdoor activities.

New Zealand · Cardrona

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Waitaki

Ōamaru Penguins

7.7

202 reviews

Ōamaru PenguinsThe location is only a few minutes away from the city center,It is a natural habitat for little blue penguins. The penguins here live entirely in their natural environment, and the conservation center has long conducted scientific monitoring and breeding research on the penguin population. The population has continued to grow in recent years, and in peak season the number of penguins returning to their nests at night is considerable. The conservation center offers two viewing experiences: daytime and dusk. The daytime visit allows you to enter the Blue Wing dark room and observe up close, through nest boxes, the little penguins that stay on shore during the day and do not head out to sea, learning about their habits. The dusk session is the core experience: after sunset, groups of little blue penguins return from feeding at sea, waddling ashore in small groups and crossing the grass back to their respective nest boxes, and the whole process is clearly visible under warm lighting. Dusk viewing offers standard seats and VIP seats; VIP seats are closer to the main route of the penguins returning to their nests, allowing a closer viewing distance, and you can also walk to the boardwalk where the penguins often pass. Staff are on site to provide a guide, introducing the habits of the little blue penguins and the conservation center's research work. Photography and video recording are prohibited in the viewing area. Night viewing seats are open-air with a roof, and bringing warm clothing is recommended even in summer.

New Zealand · Oamaru

2026 Global 50 - Cool Water Escapes

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Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

7.8

New Zealand · Milford Sound

483 reviews

Free attraction

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Milford Sound / Piopiotahi: Premium small boat cruise

Milford

Free cancellationBook now for todayDuration: 3.5 hrsEnglish

From€94.24

13 days · Sydney - Milford Sound - Te Anau - Dunedin - Christchurch - Tauranga - Auckland - Waitangi - Sydney

6D5N • New Zealand Central South Island - Milford Sound - Mount Cook

Hassle-free travel: experienced bilingual driver service with full-time WeChat assistance. Relax and enjoy a high-quality, worry-free vacation! | Choose 4 or 5-diamond hotels throughout your trip for a better experience within budget. | Take in the magnificent scenery of mountains and seas, wander immersively along the way, and experience the stirring grandeur of the wilderness up close.

EnglishGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Choose your hotelMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

From EUR 2,355

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Experiences you can't miss in Milford

Featured Culture & history in Milford

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Christchurch round-trip English tour: Lake Tekapo + Church of the Good Shepherd visit + Mount Cook Park hike

3.7/5

· 3 reviews· 26 booked

Duration: 12.7 hrs

English

From€182.76

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Christchurch, New Zealand: Mount Cook + Lake Tekapo + The Church of the Good Shepherd Tour [Includes Transfers & Lunch]

5.0/5

· 2 reviews

Duration: 10.2 hrs

English

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From€165.18

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Christchurch: Mt Cook & Tekapo Small-Group Tour (incl Lunch)

4.7/5

· 6 reviews

Duration: 13 hrs

English

Free cancellation

Book now for tomorrow

From€148.80

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Christchurch to Aoraki/Mount Cook one-way: Lake Tekapo + Church of the Good Shepherd visit + Mount Cook Park

Duration: 6.7 hrs

English

From€120.94

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New Zealand Aoraki / Mount Cook + Lake Tekapo + The Church of the Good Shepherd Tour [16-person bus with lunch included]

Duration: 10.9 hrs

English

Book now for tomorrow

From€124.30

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Christchurch, New Zealand: professional translation | local guide | tour guide | self-guided tour services | itinerary customization

Duration: 8 hrs

English

Book now for tomorrow

From€413.88

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Lake Tekapo: Indoor Dark Sky Cultural Astronomy Experience

5.0/5

· 1 review

Duration: 45 mins

Free cancellation

Book now for today

From€29.37

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Featured Outdoor & sports in Milford

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Aoraki / Mount Cook Tasman MAC ice lake boat 2.5 hour adventure with guide

5.0/5

· 1 review· 32 booked

Duration: 3.1 hrs

English

Free cancellation

From€121.62

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New Zealand Go Tekapo small game hunting [optional Chinese/English guide]

Duration: 2 hrs

English

Free cancellation

From€188.61

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Tekapo hunting in New Zealand [small game + Chinese and English guide]

5.0/5

· 1 review· 30 booked

Duration: 2 hrs

English

Free cancellation

From€189.15

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Christchurch to Queenstown: Lake Tekapo + Church of the Good Shepherd + Aoraki / Mount Cook [English Tour]

Duration: 10 hrs

English

From€217.69

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One-Way Tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo [Includes Transfers]

Duration: 10.5 hrs

English

From€220.43

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Tekapo to Queenstown one-way join-in tour: Lake Tekapo + Lake Pukaki + Aoraki / Mount Cook [English-speaking group]

Duration: 8.3 hrs

English

From€201.57

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Peel Forest: Rangitata Gorge Whitewater Rafting Tour

5.0/5

· 1 review

Duration: 5 hrs

Free cancellation

From€144.32

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Milford cruises

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14 days · Sydney - Milford Sound - Te Anau - Dunedin - Christchurch - Tauranga - Waitangi - Auckland - Sydney

Cruise line offer-EUR 832

From EUR 1,914EUR 2,745

15 days · Sydney - Australia - New Zealand - Sydney

4.1/5 · 23 reviews

Norwegian Cruise Line ·

Norwegian Spirit3

Depart from Sydney

From EUR 1,683

13 days · Auckland - New Zealand - Australia - Sydney

4.1/5 · 23 reviews · 3 booked

Norwegian Cruise Line ·

Norwegian Spirit3

Depart from Auckland

From EUR 782

13 days · Sydney - Milford Sound - Te Anau - Dunedin - Christchurch - Auckland - Waitangi - Sydney

Private Tours in Milford

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9D8N • New Zealand South Island Midline, East Coast, Small Loop Tour,Milford Sound

Mandarin/EnglishGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Choose your hotelMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Experienced bilingual driver service with full-time WeChat assistance. Relax and enjoy a high-quality, worry-free vacation! · Choose 4 or 5-diamond hotels throughout your trip for a better experience within budget. · Preferred Itinerary: discover more wonders in less time.

From EUR 2,899

14D13N • New Zealand North Island + South Island Loop + Taupō + Wellington + Cook Strait Ferry + Kaikōura + Milford Sound + Aoraki Mount Cook

EnglishGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Choose your hotelMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Choose 4- or 5-star hotels throughout your trip for a better experience while staying within budget. · An experienced bilingual driver is at your service to ensure safe travel. Tips are all-inclusive, with no shopping stops along the way. · New Zealand condenses volcanoes, straits, fjords, and snow-capped mountains into one loop route.

From EUR 4,378

13D12N • New Zealand North Island, South Island Loop + Milford Sound + East & West Coasts

Mandarin/EnglishGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Multiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Discover more stunning scenery and unique experiences in a limited time. · Experienced bilingual driver service with full-time WeChat assistance. Relax and enjoy a high-quality, worry-free vacation! · Choose 4 or 5-diamond hotels throughout your trip for a better experience within budget.

From EUR 3,342

6D5N • Ultimate NZ South Island Iconic Route: Wanaka Tree + Queenstown Gondola + Milford Sound Cruise All-in-One

EnglishGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Choose your hotelPrivate Tours

Exclusive private vehicle with a dedicated Chinese-speaking driver-guide throughout. Choose your own hotels and dining. No group tours, no pressure - transparent pricing with zero hidden fees. · Enjoy 4-star hotels throughout your trip, including two consecutive nights in Queenstown and a stay in Tekapo's Dark Sky Reserve for stargazing, for prime locations, comfort, and peace of mind. · Experience three iconic South Island highlights in one trip: the Wanaka Tree, the Skyline Queenstown Gondola, and a Milford Sound cruise, with a perfect balance of adventure and awe.

From EUR 2,143

9D8N • South Island circuit, New Zealand - Aoraki Mount Cook

EnglishGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Choose your hotelMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Discover more stunning scenery and unique experiences in a limited time. · Enjoy service from an experienced bilingual driver, plus full-time support via WeChat. Relax and enjoy a high-quality, worry-free vacation! · Choose 2 or 5-diamond hotels throughout your trip for a better experience within budget.

From EUR 2,371

9D8N • New Zealand South Island - Lake Tekapo Stargazing - Milford Sound Day Tour - Oamaru Penguin Colony - Alpaca Farm - Queenstown Gondola

Mandarin/EnglishGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Choose your hotelMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

From EUR 3,361

7D6N • New Zealand South Island & Kaikoura Whale Watching + Tekapo Lake + Tasman Glacier + Wanaka Tree + Milford Sound & Queenstown Adventure

EnglishGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Choose your hotelPrivate Tours

Custom private tours for all group sizes, 1-on-1 online travel concierge service, d exclusive private vehicles with full-time on-call support, fully transparent travel with zero hidden charges. · Handpicked hotels & homestays with diverse styles & budgets for your choice, offering comfortable home-style relaxation after daily tours. · Marvel at turquoise lake, ancient glaciers & dramatic fjords, dive into stunning natural landscapes of New Zealand South Island.

From EUR 2,612

15D14N • North Island - South Island Central East Coast - Kaikoura - Milford Sound - Aoraki Mount Cook

EnglishGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Choose your hotelMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Have fun roaming around the alpaca farm, enjoy a stylish whale watching cruise at sea, and explore the mysterious glowworm caves · Bilingual drivers with years of experience at your service to ensure safe travels. All tips and empty running fees are covered, with zero shopping stops throughout the journey. · Choose 4-star or 5-star hotels throughout the trip, no shopping stops, all tips included

From EUR 4,579

Group Tours in Milford

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9D8N • New Zealand South Island + Christchurch + Queenstown + Omarama + Te Anau + Franz Josef

Max. 53 peopleEnglishNo mandatory shoppingTour guide includedGroup Tours

Witness the starry night sky over Tekapo, gaze at the Franz Josef Glacier in the distance, and then take a scenic mountain train through the Southern Alps · Stay in star-rated hotels throughout, prime location, comfortable standard room type, guaranteed restful sleep, convenient travel experience · Licensed vehicles, Experienced driver-guide , In-trip butler , Personalized itinerary customization, Sightseeing only, no shopping

From EUR 3,826

10D9N • South Island

Max. 40 peopleMandarinGuaranteed departureNo mandatory shoppingTour guide includedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Group Tours

1 review

Visit different glaciers on the east and west coasts, explore 3 unique towns, visit Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, go whale watching, and immerse yourself in the charm of the South Island. · Enjoy Fiordland lobster, roast leg of lamb, venison, alpine salmon sashimi, a specialty stone grill, a black‑gold abalone specialty meal, and a half‑lobster meal. · With 20 years of direct local tour experience, we operate our own fleet and provide a variety of local specialty meals.

From EUR 1,711

10D9N • New Zealand South Island + Joseph Glacier + Lake Wakatipu + Church of the Good Shepherd + Milford Sound Cruise + Jet Boat

Max. 53 peopleEnglishNo mandatory shoppingTour guide includedGroup Tours

A panoramic tour of New Zealand's South Island, covering lakes, fjords, glaciers, farms, and cultural experiences, unlocking diverse landscapes with unique transportation options · Stay in star-rated hotels throughout, prime location, comfortable standard room type, guaranteed restful sleep, convenient travel experience · Licensed vehicles, Experienced driver-guide , In-trip butler, Personalized itinerary customization, Sightseeing only, no shopping

From EUR 5,032

17D16N • New Zealand South Island + North Island + Auckland + Rotorua + Wellington + Kaikoura + Te Anau + Omarama + Franz Josef

Max. 53 peopleEnglishNo mandatory shoppingTour guide includedGroup Tours

Exclusive late-night tour of the America's Cup exhibition at the New Zealand Maritime Museum, explore the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, and see Huka Falls. · Stay in star-rated hotels throughout, prime location, comfortable standard room types, guaranteed restful sleep, convenient travel experience · Licensed vehicles, Experienced driver-guide , In-trip butler, Personalized itinerary customization , Sightseeing only, no shopping

From EUR 8,096

7D6N • 7Day/6Nights Southern Coastal Splendor Tour

4.3/5

3 reviews

EnglishNo mandatory shoppingGroup Tours

From EUR 1,782

14D13N • New Zealand South Island + North Island + Rotorua + Auckland + Queenstown + Te Anau + Omarama + Franz Josef

Max. 53 peopleEnglishNo mandatory shoppingTour guide includedGroup Tours

Ride the alpine scenic train through the Southern Alps, take in views of Franz Josef Glacier, explore Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, and visit The Church of the Good Shepherd · Stay in star-rated hotels throughout, prime location, comfortable standard room type, guaranteed restful sleep, convenient travel experience · Licensed vehicles , Experienced driver-guide, In-trip butler , Personalized itinerary customization, Sightseeing only, no shopping

From EUR 5,920

6D5N • 6Day/5Nights Southern Heritage

5/5

3 reviews

EnglishNo mandatory shoppingGroup Tours

From EUR 1,186

14D13N • New Zealand South Island + North Island + Auckland + Rotorua + Wellington + Picton + Omarama + Franz Josef

Max. 53 peopleEnglishNo mandatory shoppingTour guide includedGroup Tours

Waitomo Caves guided tour, see Huka Falls, cruise from Wellington to Picton across Cook Strait, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd in Lake Tekapo · Stay in star-rated hotels throughout, prime location, comfortable standard room types, guaranteed restful sleep, convenient travel experience · Licensed vehicles, Experienced driver-guide, In-trip butler , Personalized itinerary customization , Sightseeing only, no shopping

From EUR 5,923

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Free things to do in Milford

Caroline Bay Association

4.1

Timaru · 18.3 km from Milford

9 reviews

Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

7.8

New Zealand · Milford Sound

483 reviews

Glenorchy

6.9

4.3/5

210 reviews

New Zealand · Glenorchy

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

7.1

4.4/5

219 reviews

New Zealand · Gammack

South Island

7

5.0/5

1 reviews

New Zealand · Wedderburn

Lake Tekapo

6.6

Tekapo · 75.4 km from Milford

343 reviews

Mount John

6.5

Tekapo · 75.7 km from Milford

101 reviews

Tasman Glacier

6.8