Milford Sound's Waterfalls: Popular & Hidden Gems in New Zealand's Wettest Place

Sutherland Falls

Height: 581 meters (1904 feet)

Sutherland Falls, standing at a height of 580 meters, is a natural wonder nestled in New Zealand's Milford Sound. You can embark on the challenging four-day Milford track to get a glimpse of this magnificent waterfall. Alternatively, a more accessible option is a scenic flight, providing not only ease of access but also views of the falls as it descends from the elevated Lake Quill.

Lady Bowen Falls

Height: 162 meters (531 feet)

Lady Bowen Falls, one of the two permanent waterfalls in Milford Sound, stands as a testament to the grandeur of New Zealand's natural wonders. Named after Lady Diamantina Bowen, the wife of New Zealand's fifth governor, this iconic waterfall is one of the tallest in the region and greets you with a refreshing mist.

Stirling Falls

Height: 155 meters (508.5 feet)

Stirling Falls, a magnificent waterfall in Milford Sound, contributes to the enchanting allure of this New Zealand fjord. Located further down the fjord, Stirling Falls begins its powerful descent from towering cliffs. One distinctive feature of Stirling Falls is its accessibility, allowing boat cruises to approach closely, providing an immersive experience for those seeking to feel the mist and hear the thunderous roar of the falls.

Bridal Veil Falls

Height: 55 meters (180 feet)

Also known as the Waireinga Falls, this is only a 15-minute drive from Raglan and is on the Waikato walking circuit. Viewing platforms near the top of the falls offer excellent views and photo opportunities. Named so because the wispy white falls look like a bride's veil, this waterfall drops into a clear pool created over time. It's a semi-permanent waterfall, which means it gets smaller during the summer and is most magnificent after heavy rain.

Fairy Falls

Height: 30.48 meters (100 feet)

Fairy Falls is a smaller yet stunning waterfall offering an excellent scenic backdrop for taking Instagrammable shots. Fairy Falls is only accessible by boat from the water. Fairy Falls is a semi-permanent waterfall, which means it will dry up after a few days of dry weather. With over 250 days of rain in Milford Sound each year, it is unusual for Fairy Falls to dry out, and you will almost certainly get to see it on your visit!

Giant Gate Falls

Height: 30 meters (98 feet)

Giant Gate Falls is a spectacular waterfall near the end of the Milford Track. You can go on a guided day walk on the Milford Track to find this waterfall, which is roughly a 1.5-hour hike from Sandfly Point. Giant Gates Falls cascades into a magnificent pool of water; Milford Track hikers frequently risk freezing temperatures on summer days to refresh themselves. It also provides the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy a hot cup of tea.

Four Sisters Falls

The Four Sisters are mysterious waterfalls that only show up on rainy days in Milford. Four identically sized waterfalls line up along a mountainside, seemingly emerging out of thin air. The Four Sisters frequently have extraordinary rainbows streaming through them. Water obtained directly from a Fiordland waterfall is among the purest and best on the planet! According to local legends, drinking water from the Four Sisters will make you look younger.

Humboldt Falls

Height: 275 meters (902 feet)

Humboldt Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Serpentine Range, in the broader Fiordland region. These lovely falls are about a 20-minute walk from the end of Hollyford Road and to reach the falls, you have to take a detour from the Milford Sound road. Humboldt Falls rushes down the mountainside in three massive jumps. The waterfall is on New Zealand's official 'Must See Waterfalls' list and you can only see it from the viewing platform.

The Chasm

Although not strictly a waterfall, the Chasm in Milford Sound is a geological marvel. Carved by the force of rushing water over centuries, the chasm showcases intricate formations, smooth, sculpted rocks, and swirling whirlpools. The walking trail leading to The Chasm invites you into the lush rainforest. As you navigate the well-maintained paths, the sound of cascading water grows louder, culminating in a breathtaking encounter with its beauty.