Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory (Milford Sound Observatory)

Overview

The Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory offers a unique glimpse into the underwater world of Milford Sound. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and descend 10 meters below the surface to observe marine life in their natural habitat.

Provides a unique educational experience about the marine ecosystem of Milford Sound.

Observatory Marine Life Interactive Exhibits

Location

Address

Harrison Cove, Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, Southland

Neighborhood: Harrison Cove

Coordinates

-44.690800, 167.876600

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$25

Children

$12

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November-March

Best Time of Day

Late afternoon

Better visibility underwater

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild

• Spring blooms
• Migratory birds

summer

Warm

• Extended hours
• Special exhibits

autumn

Mild

• Fall colors
• Calm waters

winter

Cold

• Winter wildlife
• Cozy indoor exhibits

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Check weather conditions
Dress warmly in winter

What to Bring

essential

Camera Warm clothing Tickets

seasonal

Raincoat Sunscreen

not allowed

Food Large bags

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Minimal

• Stairs to observatory
• Slippery surfaces

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Typical Costs

entry $25

parking $10

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

Casual, Layers, comfortable shoes, Sturdy walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks
• Official website
• 48 hours for full refund
• Available online

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Milford Discovery Centre

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Queenstown Airport

Distance: 120 km

Travel Time: 2.5 hours

taxi

$150 2.5 hours

public_transport

$30 3 hours

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

walking

$0 20 min

taxi

$15 5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique underwater experience

Historical Significance: Part of the Fiordland National Park, a significant natural area

Insider Tips

Visit early for fewer crowds
Check for special exhibits

Local Recommendations

• Try the local fish and chips
• Visit the nearby Milford Sound boat tours

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia ora

thank_you Kia ora

where_is Kei hea...

how_much He aha te utu?

beautiful Māia

ticket Tiketi

Guide Languages: English, Māori, Other European languages

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Underwater Observatory

Best Time: Late afternoon

Tips: Use natural light

Result: Stunning underwater shots

#milfordsound #underwater #nature

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Observatory

prohibited areas Exhibits

flash photography Allowed in designated areas

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Milford Sound Cruise

Distance: 100m

Walking: 2 min

Type: Boat Tour

Fiordland National Park

Distance: 5km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: National Park

Reviews

4.7

Based on 850 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book online"
"Visit in the afternoon"
"Great for families"

Contact Information

+64 3 520 0060

info@milforddiscovery.com

www.milforddiscovery.com

Social Media

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