Day Four - Martins Bay to Milford

Explore Martins Bay Spit

After another hearty breakfast you’ll be ready for your final walk, exploring Martins Bay Spit, a famous landmark separating the powerful Tasman Sea from the Hollyford Valley.

Here you will view historical sites, where Chief Tutoko (Ngai Tahu) and his people guarded entry into the Hollyford Valley, controlling access into and out of highly valued pounamu (greenstone/jade) gathering areas.

Your guide will also highlight the plant and wildlife of this unique environment helping you to discover the diversity of this remote area. You will have the opportunity to explore the sand dunes, and wander along the isolated beach at your own pace, with the Tasman Sea as your companion.

This walk is around 5km, the perfect way to stretch your legs as you take in the stunning West Coast views. 

Embark on your scenic flight

Returning to Waitai Lodge for lunch, your lodge hosts bid you farewell as you board the helicopter for a scenic flight along the rugged coastline and into the dramatic Milford Sound. Take in the stunning and rugged West Coast and marvel at the grandeur of vertical granite walls rising from the sea.

Arrive in Milford Sound 

Once in Milford you’ll be met by our private coach and travel for your return to Te Anau. You'll get to experience the impressive Milford Road, and head up through the famous Homer Tunnel, which was cut through a divide of sheer granite rock. The drive time from Milford Sound to Te Anau is approximately 1 hour 30mins (118km). 

Bid farewell to new friends

In Te Anau we will stop at the Explorer Bar to say farewell and collect any luggage stored at the Distinction Hotel. Guests can disembark in Te Anau and make their own way from there, or they can stay on board, travelling through to Queenstown.

Your coach driver can drop you off at Queenstown Airport, if required, or at your hotel accommodation in central Queenstown.

Day four map   Rates & Dates