Things to do in Milford

Timaru · 18.3km 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

631 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

365 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

215 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

4.8/5

189 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

4.8/5

209 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

7.9

4.8/5

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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Traveller favourites curated for you

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 tomorrowDuration: 3.5 hrsEnglish

FromDKK 708.55

10 days · Sydney - Picton - Christchurch - Dunedin - Te Anau - Milford Sound - Sydney

4.7/5

47 reviews13 booked

Explore Oceania to discover glaciers, fjords, and historic culture

Royal Caribbean

Anthem of the Seas

Up to 60% off 2nd guest -DKK 5,159

From DKK 15,076DKK 20,235

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9D8N • New Zealand North Island South Island Central - East coast - Kaikoura - Milford Sound - Aoraki Mount Cook

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: Explore more wonders in less time. Empty run fees are already included - just focus on the views.

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

From DKK 23,628

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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

FromDKK 1,371.94

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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

Book now for tomorrow

FromDKK 1,244.84

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

4.7/5

· 6 reviews

Duration: 13 hrs

English

Free cancellation

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FromDKK 1,121.48

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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

FromDKK 907.9

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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

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FromDKK 936.75

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

Duration: 8 hrs

English

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FromDKK 1,392.12

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Lake Tekapo: Indoor Dark Sky Cultural Astronomy Experience

5.0/5

· 1 review

Duration: 45 mins

Free cancellation

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FromDKK 221.27

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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

FromDKK 912.95

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

Duration: 10 hrs

English

FromDKK 1,634.22

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

Duration: 10.5 hrs

English

FromDKK 1,661.17

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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

FromDKK 1,513.17

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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

FromDKK 1,425.49

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

Duration: 2 hrs

English

Free cancellation

FromDKK 1,421.42

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Peel Forest: Rangitata Gorge Whitewater Rafting Tour

5.0/5

· 1 review

Duration: 5 hrs

Free cancellation

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FromDKK 1,087.7

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Milford Cruises

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15 days · Sydney - Australia - New Zealand - Sydney

4.1/5 · 23 reviews · 8 booked

Norwegian Cruise Line ·

Norwegian Spirit3

4.1/5 · 23 reviews · 6 booked

From DKK 16,409

12 days · Auckland - New Zealand - Australia - Sydney

Norwegian Cruise Line ·

Norwegian Spirit3

Depart from Auckland

From DKK 6,304

10 days · Sydney - Milford Sound - Te Anau - Dunedin - Christchurch - Picton - Sydney

Explore Oceania to discover glaciers, fjords, and historic culture

4.7/5 · 47 reviews · 2 booked

Royal Caribbean ·

Anthem of the Seas4

Up to 60% off 2nd guest-DKK 4,314

From DKK 11,534DKK 15,848

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

4.6/5 · 13 reviews · 10 booked

Celebrity Cruises ·

Celebrity Edge4

Cruise line offer-DKK 5,941

From DKK 14,237DKK 20,177

13 days · Auckland - New Zealand - Australia - Sydney

4.1/5 · 23 reviews · 3 booked

Norwegian Cruise Line ·

Norwegian Spirit3

Depart from Auckland

From DKK 5,865

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

4.6/5 · 13 reviews · 9 booked

Celebrity Cruises ·

Celebrity Edge4