04 Nov 2026
3 hours ago
19 views
A new concession agreement with Milford Sound Tourism Limited has now been signed – bringing certainty for the iconic tourism destination ahead of summer, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says. The concession enables Milford Sound Tourism Limited (MSTL) to continue managing the Piopiotahi Milford Sound visitor terminal and Freshwater Basin carparks through to 2050. “I’m pleased to announce the completion of this process ensuring the long-term operation of important visitor infrastructure in time to support a predicted record tourism season for Piopiotahi,” says Mr Potaka.
16 Oct 2026
2 weeks ago
251 views
The New Zealand Government will invest around $40 million from Budget 2026 to enhance the resilience of State Highway 94 between Te Anau and Milford, a crucial route for tourism to Milford Sound. Upgrades include widening roadways and strengthening retaining walls at key sites to prevent disruptions from natural hazards, with additional work planned on SH94 and other vulnerable South Island highways. This $150 million-plus package aims to reduce community disruptions, support businesses, and improve freight and visitor access, reflecting a significant funding boost for South Island roads under the 2024-27 National Land Transport Plan.
12 Feb 2026
8 months ago
1307 views
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka announced long-term tourism concessions in the South Island, including a 38-year concession for The Remarkables Ski Area and multi-decade agreements for the Milford Track and Te Ana-au Caves, aimed at supporting jobs and regional economies. These concessions provide operators with investment certainty while maintaining public access and enforcing environmental and safety standards. Tourism Minister Louise Upston emphasized that such stability helps businesses retain staff, deliver quality visitor experiences, and sustain local communities.
20 Jan 2026
9 months ago
1368 views
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka has approved a long-term concession for Milford Sound Tourism Limited to operate key visitor infrastructure at Milford Sound Piopiotahi until 2050, providing certainty for essential facilities in this important conservation area. The decision emphasizes balancing conservation, safe visitor access, and support for regional economies, while recognizing the cultural significance of the site through a partnership with Ngāi Tahu. Officials will now negotiate terms to ensure statutory obligations, capital investment, and broader tourism interests are addressed, supported by government funding for the Milford corridor.