Frequently Asked Questions about New Zealand Travel

The Milford Track is renowned as one of the most iconic and breathtaking walks in the world – a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. Towering peaks and vast valleys create a truly majestic and remote landscape. Part of the adventure is simply getting there, and local insight can make all the difference when planning your transport – especially if you're short on time.

Milford truly comes alive in the rain, when water cascades from the surrounding cliffs, forming hundreds of spontaneous waterfalls. It's a spectacular sight, provided you're well-prepared with the right gear for the conditions!

If you're after a hassle-free experience, our premium hiking package includes everything you need – high-quality, lightweight hire gear, delicious hiking meals, and all your transport arranged. With convenient hotel drop-off before you set off, it's the easiest way to walk the track fully prepared and well-fuelled, without the stress of organising it all yourself.

Hiking the Milford Track requires a moderate level of fitness. While it is not considered an extremely challenging or technical hike, it does involve multiple days of walking over varied terrain and elevation changes.

The track is not suitable for all walkers.

Due to the exposed alpine environment and frequently challenging weather conditions, it is not recommended for children under the age of 10. Sections of the Milford Track can be steep, slippery, rough, muddy, and exposed to the elements.

On Day Three, you'll ascend over 500 metres to Omanui / McKinnon Pass, followed by a descent of 1,000 metres to Dumpling Hut. On Day Four, you must cover 18 kilometres to reach Sandfly Point in time to catch the early afternoon boat – a demanding finish that requires good fitness and time management.

The Milford Track and the Routeburn Track are two of New Zealand's most famous and spectacular Great Walks, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking scenery. Here's a comparison of the two tracks:

• Scenery: Both tracks showcase breathtaking natural beauty, but they differ in their landscapes. The Milford Track is renowned for its dramatic fiords, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforests, providing a more dramatic and diverse scenery. The Routeburn Track, on the other hand, takes hikers through alpine terrain with snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and sweeping valleys, offering stunning alpine vistas.
• Length and Duration: The Milford Track is longer, spanning approximately 53.5 km (33.2 miles), and typically takes 4 days to complete. In contrast, the Routeburn Track is shorter, measuring about 32 km (19.9 miles), and can be completed in 2-4 days depending on the pace and side trips taken.
• Accessibility: The starting points of the two tracks are different. The Milford Track starts at Glade Wharf and ends at Sandfly Point, accessible via a boat journey from Te Anau. The Routeburn Track can be accessed from either Routeburn Shelter near Glenorchy or The Divide Shelter along the Milford Road.
• Difficulty: The Milford Track is considered moderately challenging, with some steep sections and potentially harsh weather conditions. It requires a good level of fitness and stamina. The Routeburn Track is also moderately challenging, but it is generally more accessible to hikers of moderate ability.
• Facilities and Crowds: Both tracks are part of New Zealand's Great Walks network and offer accommodation facilities such as huts and campsites. However, the Milford Track tends to be more crowded and has a quota system for bookings due to its popularity. The Routeburn Track also attracts visitors but may have slightly fewer crowds.

Both tracks offer unforgettable experiences, and the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences, time available, fitness level, and the type of scenery you wish to encounter. Many hikers find it rewarding to explore both tracks to fully appreciate the beauty of Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks.

Yes, you can indeed combine both the Milford Track and the Routeburn Track for an extended and awe-inspiring adventure in New Zealand. By connecting the end of the Routeburn Track to the start of the Milford Track, hikers can experience the diverse landscapes of Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks. Although this combined hike requires careful planning, it offers an unforgettable journey through breathtaking grandeur, stunning vistas, and natural beauty. Be well-prepared, and consider the increased distance, duration, and difficulty for a safe and rewarding exploration of these iconic Great Walks.