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
- Southern Crossing - Small Group Tour
- South Pacific Wonders (Christchurch to Sydney) (2025)
- Christchurch to Milford Sound & Franz Josef - 7 days
- NZ Adventure South
- Southern Voyager
- NZ Intro South
- Budget South Island Adventure - 7 days
- New Zealand Marvel (2025/2026)
- Essential New Zealand: South Island
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$6,855
The route from Christchurch winds through Te Anau to Milford Sound, featuring Mirror Lakes and Homer Tunnel. A 2-hour scenic cruise through the fjord precedes the return to Queenstown, spanning 580km round trip.
Duration 8 days Destinations Christchurch, Franz Josef, Lake Hawea, Queenstown, Milford Sound Age Range Ages 18-49 Operator Kiwi Experience From
- NZ$1,969
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
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
NZ Adventure South
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The activities were amazing and the group was lovely.”
Olivia, traveled in March
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“Amazing experience with everyone in the group. The tour was super fun!”
Vera, traveled in August
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
- NZ$1,956+$293 upfront costs
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
- NZ$2,149
Duration 7 days Destinations Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Franz Josef Age Range Ages 18-39 Operator On The Go Tours From
- NZ$3,445
Duration 14 days Destinations Christchurch, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Te Anau, Dunedin, Omarama, Oamaru, Picton, Wellington, RotoruaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator AAT Kings From $8,305
20% Off- NZ$6,644You save $1,661
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
20% Off- NZ$2,595
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."
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