Milford Sound: Cruise Ship Ban Rejected
The new Zealand government has declared Milford Sound will remain open too cruise ships, overturning a proposed ban. This decision, announced on June 4, 2025, prioritizes investment in infrastructure and conservation projects, allocating $15.2 million toward improvements. Minister Louise Upston highlights the importance of Piopiotahi, intending to boost tourism and support local business operations while ensuring access to the fjord. The airstrip will stay open also. The focus is on sustainably growing tourism within this UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts over a million visitors annually. With new short stops, and upgrades planned for both environmental protection and visitor facilities, the economic outlook remains positive for the region. News Directory 3 brings you this pivotal decision. Discover what’s next for Milford Sound’s lasting growth and upcoming initiatives.
Milford Sound Cruise ship Ban Rejected; Upgrades Announced
Updated June 04, 2025
The New Zealand government has decided against banning cruise ships from Milford Sound, opting instead to invest $15.2 million in infrastructure upgrades and conservation projects. This decision overturns a previous proposal that suggested banning cruise ships and closing the airstrip.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister louise Upston stated that Piopiotahi’s role is key in the contry’s tourism recovery. By enabling both cruise ships and aircraft to continue accessing the fjord, the government aims to support the local economy and provide certainty for operators.
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka said the investment aims to sustainably grow tourism while protecting the area. The iconic UNESCO World Heritage site attracts over a million visitors annually, contributing about $200 million to the regional economy.
The funding will support new short stops, including an alpine nature walk in Gertrude Valley, improved flood protection at the Cleddau River, cleanup of the Little Tahiti landfill, and new facilities at Deepwater Basin. The funding comes from the International Visitor levy and the Department of Conservation’s capital works program.
“We are supporting the local economy and providing certainty for operators by enabling cruise ships and aircraft to continue to access the fjord, rejecting a previous proposal to ban this,” Upston said.
What’s next
The Department of Conservation will engage with stakeholders, including Ngāi Tahu, on further initiatives. These include investment opportunities along the Milford corridor, developing a multi-year investment plan, and considering improved planning tools within Fiordland National Park.