Milford Underwater Observatory

Milford Sound


Run by Southern Discoveries, this small observatory is NZ's only floating underwater observatory, with displays on the unique natural environment of the fiord. The centre offers a chance to view corals, tube anemones and bottom-dwelling sea perch from 10m below the waterline. It's only accessible on a cruise by any of the operators – some include a visit (such as Southern Discoveries' Scenic Cruise, from $90/55 per adult/child), others offer it as an add-on; check when you book.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Milford Sound attractions

1. Humboldt Falls

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This 275m-high cascade is a worthwhile detour when driving the Milford Hwy. Reach the lookout point on an easy 1.2km hike through rainforest (30 minutes…

2. Gunn's Camp Museum

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Less a museum, more a cabin strung with antique agricultural tools and old moa bones, Gunn's Camp Museum is worth a peep into, if only to browse the…

3. Pop's View

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If you can find a parking space, pause at Pop's View for a bird's-eye view over the forest-cloaked Hollyford Valley. It's 87km north of Te Anau along the…

4. Mirror Lakes

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Fifty-eight kilometres north of Te Anau along the Milford Hwy are the Mirror Lakes, a popular stop on this world-renowned road trip. A five-minute stroll…