The Māori Legends and Early Exploration
Long before European settlers arrived, Milford Sound, known as Piopiotahi in Māori, was deeply woven into Māori legends. The legend speaks of the demigod Tū Te Rakiwhānoa, who carved the fiords with his adze to create a safe haven for his people. The area's waterfalls are said to be the tears of the grieving Tū, who mourned the loss of his beloved pet piopio, a thrush-like bird. The first Māori explorers navigated the challenging terrain of Fiordland, using the sound's abundant resources for sustenance and ceremonial purposes.
European Discovery by Captain Cook
In 1773, during his second voyage, Captain James Cook anchored in what he mistakenly believed to be an inlet, naming it Milford Sound after Milford Haven in Wales. Although he never actually entered the sound, his mapping of the surrounding region was crucial for future explorers and settlers. Cook's expeditions marked the beginning of European interest in New Zealand's remote and rugged Fiordland.
The Sealing and Whaling Era
The early 19th century saw a surge of European sealers and whalers arriving at Milford Sound. These maritime hunters were drawn by the rich marine life, particularly seals and whales, whose oils and pelts were highly valuable commodities. The sealing industry peaked in the early 1800s but led to the near-extinction of the local seal population, prompting a decline in the practice and a shift towards whaling, which persisted until the mid-19th century.
Exploration by Quintin McKinnon
In 1888, the Scottish explorer Quintin McKinnon and his guide Ernest Mitchell made history by discovering the overland route to Milford Sound through what is now known as the Milford Track. This trail, which spans 53.5 kilometers, has since become one of the world's most famous hiking routes, celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain. McKinnon's exploration opened up the sound to greater tourism and accessibility.
The Establishment of Fiordland National Park
In 1952, the New Zealand government officially established Fiordland National Park, encompassing Milford Sound and its surrounding areas. Spanning over 12,500 square kilometers, the park was created to preserve the unique biodiversity and stunning landscapes of the region. This designation has helped protect Milford Sound's pristine environment and has promoted sustainable tourism, allowing visitors to experience its natural beauty responsibly.
Milford Road and Homer Tunnel
One of the most significant developments in making Milford Sound accessible was the completion of the Homer Tunnel in 1954. This 1.2-kilometer tunnel cuts through the Darran Mountain Range, providing a direct route to the sound. The Milford Road, which leads to the tunnel, is an engineering marvel in itself, offering travelers stunning vistas and making Milford Sound one of the most visited tourist destinations in New Zealand. The road and tunnel symbolize human ingenuity in overcoming the challenges posed by the region's rugged terrain.
