Milford Sound Tours from Christchurch
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10 best Milford Sound tours from Christchurch
Compiled by
MelissaChristchurch travel expert at TourRadar
- Budget South Island Explorer - 14 days
- South Pacific Wonders (Christchurch to Sydney) (2025)
- Essential New Zealand: South Island
- 5 Day Alpine Explorer
- Christchurch to Milford Sound & Franz Josef - 7 days
- 5 Day Southern Experience Tour
- Essence of New Zealand (Small Group, 2027/2028)
- NZ Adventure South
- Southern Voyager
- NZ Intro South
The day starts early at 7:00 AM from Christchurch with a scenic drive to Milford Sound through Fjordland. Mirror Lakes and crystal-clear waterways mark the route to this eighth wonder of the world. A optional cruise awaits, before returning to Queenstown.
Duration 14 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Franz Josef, Punakaiki, Abel Tasman National Park, Marlborough, Kaikoura Age Range Ages 18+ Operator On The Go Tours From
- NZ$6,765
The Southern Alps unfold between Christchurch and Queenstown. Homer Tunnel and ancient beech forests of Hollyford Valley lead to Milford Sound. Weather permitting, an optional return flight soars over alpine landscapes to Queenstown.
Duration 14 days Destinations Christchurch, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Collette From
- NZ$8,499+$1,400 upfront costs
Duration 12 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Arrowtown, Franz Josef, Westport, Punakaiki, Abel Tasman National Park, MarlboroughSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Operator Intrepid Travel From
- NZ$2,595
5 Day Alpine Explorer
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Queenstown was wonderful, particularly the Milford Sound cruise. The only meal that was included in the tour was an excellent buffet!”
Marni, traveled in April
The route stretches from Christchurch to Milford Sound via Mount Cook and Queenstown. Real Journeys presents a 1-hour 40-minute fiord cruise showcasing Mitre Peak and Pembroke Glacier. Photo opportunities abound along Milford Road through Te Anau.
Duration 5 days Destinations Christchurch, Mount Cook, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Fox Glacier, Greymouth Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Thrifty Tours From
- NZ$3,590
The majestic fiords of Milford Sound await after departing Christchurch through Te Anau. A scenic cruise showcases towering waterfalls and dramatic cliffs, complete with onboard lunch. The 400km scenic route concludes in Queenstown.
Duration 7 days Destinations Christchurch, Geraldine, Lake Tekapo, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Franz Josef Age Range Ages 18+ Operator On The Go Tours From
- NZ$6,915
The 483 km route from Christchurch to Milford Sound passes through Queenstown. A 2.5-hour Nature Cruise reveals waterfalls and wildlife, while Real Journeys' luxury coach provides expert commentary through Te Anau and Milford Road.
Duration 5 days Destinations Christchurch, Mount Cook, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Franz Josef, Greymouth Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Thrifty Tours From
- NZ$2,600
Duration 18 days Destinations Christchurch, Omarama, Invercargill, Milford Sound, Te Anau, Queenstown, Punakaiki, Nelson, Wellington, NapierSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator AAT Kings From
- NZ$13,895
NZ Adventure South
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The itinerary was amazing and I really enjoyed stopping at certain locations to spend some time exploring and taking in the views.”
Elisha, traveled in April
Christchurch serves as the gateway to Milford Sound's majestic fjords via Southern Alps. The cruise passes Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, and ancient rainforests. The 900km round trip concludes in Queenstown.
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Wanaka, Milford Sound, Queenstown Age Range Ages 18-45 Operator INTRO Travel From
- NZ$2,099
Southern Voyager
108 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We did visit the best spots in the south island and had a huge amount of optional activities to choose from.”
Bruno, traveled in October
Christchurch marks the starting point before reaching Queenstown, gateway to Milford Sound's UNESCO-listed fiordlands. Towering waterfalls, ancient forests, and dolphin sightings highlight the cruise, with famous Fergburger awaiting in Queenstown.
Duration 7 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Franz Josef Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator Wild Kiwi From $1,956
15% Off- NZ$1,663+$293 upfront costsYou save $293
NZ Intro South
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“An amazing tour! It shows off the natural beauty of New Zealand with lots of fun activities.”
Hayley, traveled in October
Lake Tekapo and Wanaka dot the route from Christchurch to Milford Sound's majestic fjords. The UNESCO World Heritage site reveals towering cliffs, ancient forests, and cascading waterfalls during the cruise, before reaching Queenstown.
Duration 9 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Wanaka, Milford Sound, Queenstown Age Range Ages 18-45 Operator INTRO Travel From
15% Off- NZ$2,149
What people love about Milford Sound Tours from Christchurch
- 5 Day Alpine Explorer
The tour was good, but I would have loved to see the West Coast as well. It wasn't possible due to the bridge that collapsed
- NZ Adventure South
Fantastic itinerary with a budget. Seen and did both touristy and adventurous itinerary. Operator was very helpful in booking additional nights and other arrangements as well.
An awesome way to see the best of the South Island, it was amazing how much we saw in 7 days! I was looking for a smaller group tour with other solo travellers and this was perfect, I got to meet other travellers and were like family at the end of the week. Robbie was an awesome guide and knew so many little secrets gems! Franz Josef and Milford Sound are definite highlights for me, especially with all the snow on the peaks.
Southern Voyager
What our customers ask about Milford Sound Tours from Christchurch
What's the average length of tours from Christchurch to Milford Sound?
Tours departing from Christchurch typically span 9 days taking travelers across the South Island's notable locations. The route connects major destinations including Franz Josef Glacier Queenstown and Mount Cook National Park before arriving at Milford Sound. A TourRadar traveler shared "We covered a ton of ground in a relatively short amount of time with terrific group leaders who are extremely knowledgeable about New Zealand and its traditions."
What accommodation types are available on tours starting in Christchurch?
Tours provide varied lodging options ranging from 3-4 star establishments such as the Distinction Christchurch Hotel to well-maintained motels. Queenstown accommodations often include stays at the Millennium Hotel or Nomads Queenstown. A TourRadar traveler noted "The accommodation arranged were all good and near to eateries" with properties conveniently positioned near urban centers and local points of interest.
What's the best season to take a Christchurch to Milford Sound tour?
The prime travel window extends from November to March when conditions are optimal for outdoor exploration. These months bring extended daylight hours to Milford Sound with pleasant temperatures hovering around 68°F (20°C). Christchurch experiences warm weather ideal for urban discovery during this period. According to a TourRadar traveler: "The itinerary was amazing and I really enjoyed stopping at certain locations to spend time exploring and taking in the views in the summer weather."
What are the must-see attractions in Christchurch before heading to Milford Sound?
Essential Christchurch stops include the Canterbury Museum the Botanic Gardens Hagley Park and the city's vibrant street art installations. Visitors should also see the Church of Good Shepherd and experience the renowned TranzAlpine train journey. A TourRadar traveler commented: "The itinerary was fantastic mixing both touristy and adventurous activities right from the start in Christchurch."
What wildlife can I expect to see during the Milford Sound portion of the tour?
The Milford Sound cruise offers sightings of Fur Seals Penguins and Dolphins against a backdrop of Mitre Peak lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. Wildlife viewing opportunities continue throughout the journey from Christchurch. As observed by a TourRadar traveler: "The Milford Sound cruise was incredible with amazing wildlife viewing opportunities."
What are the must-see stops between Christchurch and Milford Sound?
Essential stops include the blue waters of Lake Tekapo the alpine scenery of Mount Cook National Park Queenstown's adventure activities and the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland National Park. A TourRadar traveler noted "The actual landscapes were breathtaking... we did things as groups and saw lots of locations from the films."
More about Christchurch
Christchurch to Queenstown tours