Homer Tunnel
Drive through a mountain and emerge into the breathtaking Cleddau Valley on the iconic Milford Road.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Homer Tunnel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Drive through a mountain and emerge into the breathtaking Cleddau Valley on the iconic Milford Road.
"Driving inside a mountain - I can check that off the list! Wow."
🚗 Single Lane Traffic
Be patient! The tunnel is single-lane with traffic lights. Allow extra time for potential waits.
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Fiordland weather changes rapidly. Layers and waterproofs are essential, even on sunny days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Homer Tunnel Drive
Milford Road, Fiordland National Park
Experience driving through a mountain! This 1.2km tunnel is a unique engineering feat with dramatic scenery.
Emerging Views
Exit of Homer Tunnel
The moment you exit the tunnel, prepare for awe-inspiring vistas of the Cleddau Valley.
Kea Encounters
Near Homer Tunnel entrance
Spot the cheeky, intelligent Kea, New Zealand's native alpine parrot, often found near the tunnel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Homer Tunnel Experience
Weather and Wildlife Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Single Lane Traffic
Be patient! The tunnel is single-lane with traffic lights. Allow extra time for potential waits.
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Fiordland weather changes rapidly. Layers and waterproofs are essential, even on sunny days.
🦜 Respect the Kea
Admire the Kea from a distance. Do not feed them, as it harms their health and natural behavior.
📸 Capture the Moment
The views emerging from the tunnel are spectacular. Have your camera ready!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Single Lane Traffic
Be patient! The tunnel is single-lane with traffic lights. Allow extra time for potential waits.
🧥 Pack for All Weather
Fiordland weather changes rapidly. Layers and waterproofs are essential, even on sunny days.
🦜 Respect the Kea
Admire the Kea from a distance. Do not feed them, as it harms their health and natural behavior.
📸 Capture the Moment
The views emerging from the tunnel are spectacular. Have your camera ready!
💧 Check Road Conditions
Avalanches can occur. Always check road status before you travel, especially in winter.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the Homer Tunnel's unique drive and the spectacular views that greet them upon exiting. The journey along the Milford Road is a highlight, with many praising the dramatic landscapes and the chance to see native Kea parrots. However, potential delays due to single-lane traffic and unpredictable weather are common points of mention.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Homer Tunnel is located on the Milford Road, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Te Anau and a 4-hour drive from Queenstown. The drive itself is incredibly scenic, passing through Fiordland National Park.
The Milford Road is well-maintained but winding and narrow in places. Drivers should be comfortable driving on the left side of the road and aware of potential hazards like changing weather and wildlife.
Yes, several tour operators offer bus services from Queenstown and Te Anau to Milford Sound, which includes passage through the Homer Tunnel. This can be a good option if you're nervous about driving.
The Homer Tunnel is 1.2 kilometers (0.75 miles) long and is a single-lane tunnel, meaning traffic is controlled by traffic lights.
Absolutely! The Milford Road is dotted with stunning viewpoints, short walks, and attractions like the Mirror Lakes and The Chasm. Allow ample time to stop and explore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to drive through the Homer Tunnel itself. It is part of the public road network leading to Milford Sound.
The Homer Tunnel is open 24/7, but traffic is controlled by lights, so there can be waiting times. It's essential to check road conditions before you travel, especially in winter.
Fiordland National Park does not have an entry fee. However, there are fees for parking at certain popular spots within the park, such as Milford Sound.
Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) or early in the morning or late in the afternoon during summer can help you avoid the largest crowds.
No, stopping inside the tunnel is prohibited for safety reasons. You can only stop at designated viewpoints before or after the tunnel.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main experience is the drive through the tunnel and the dramatic scenery that unfolds on the other side. You might also encounter Kea parrots.
Yes, there are public restrooms available at the Homer Tunnel parking area and at various points along the Milford Road.
The tunnel itself is a road, so it's accessible by vehicle. However, the surrounding natural terrain can be uneven. Check specific accessibility at nearby viewpoints.
The most famous resident is the Kea, the world's only alpine parrot. You might also spot other native birds.
The drive through the tunnel is brief, but factor in time for potential traffic delays and to admire the views on either side. A quick stop might be 15-30 minutes, but you'll likely spend more time on the Milford Road itself.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shots are taken as you emerge from the tunnel, capturing the dramatic Cleddau Valley. The entrance to the tunnel also offers a unique perspective.
Always prioritize safety. Use designated parking areas and be aware of your surroundings, especially with traffic. Never stop inside the tunnel.
Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes. If it's overcast, a polarizing filter can help enhance the dramatic skies.
Yes, but maintain a respectful distance. Use a zoom lens if possible to get close-up shots without disturbing them.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks. Always check the Department of Conservation (DOC) guidelines for Fiordland National Park before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as services are limited. The numerous short walks along the Milford Road, like the Mirror Lakes, are perfect for little legs and offer fantastic photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for the playful Kea parrots near the tunnel – they're a big hit with kids, but remember to observe them from a safe distance and never feed them. Consider booking a coach tour if you're concerned about driving the winding roads with children. This allows everyone to enjoy the scenery without the stress of navigation. Ensure you have warm, waterproof clothing for everyone, as Fiordland's weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. The dramatic landscapes and potential wildlife sightings will keep young adventurers engaged.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Be prepared for single-lane traffic control within the tunnel, which can cause delays. Embrace these pauses as opportunities to appreciate the surrounding mountains. If you're visiting in winter, always check the road conditions beforehand, as avalanches can lead to closures.
+1 The drive offers a true sense of adventure and a deep connection with New Zealand's wild landscapes.📸 Photographers
The unique engineering of the tunnel itself also makes for compelling shots. Don't forget to look for the vibrant green Kea parrots, which provide excellent opportunities for wildlife photography, but always maintain a respectful distance. Consider visiting during different weather conditions; a rainy day can lend a moody, atmospheric quality to the landscape, while clear days offer sharp, majestic vistas. The Milford Road itself is a photographer's dream, with countless waterfalls, glacial valleys, and rugged peaks. Remember to pack a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Homer Tunnel
+1Emerging from the tunnel is a truly dramatic moment. The landscape transforms from the dark, cool interior to the breathtaking, often mist-shrouded, Cleddau Valley. This transition is a highlight for many visitors, offering unparalleled views of glacial valleys and towering peaks.
While the tunnel itself is the main attraction, the journey along the Milford Road to and from it is equally spectacular. This road is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including rainforests, waterfalls, and dramatic mountain scenery, making the entire drive an unforgettable experience.
Wildlife Encounters: The Kea
It's crucial to remember that Kea are a protected species, and feeding them is strictly prohibited. Feeding them human food can cause serious health problems and disrupt their natural foraging behaviors. Visitors are encouraged to observe them from a safe distance and appreciate their wild nature.
Seeing a Kea up close is a memorable part of the Fiordland experience. Their vibrant green plumage and distinctive calls make them a fascinating subject for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike. Remember to keep your car doors and windows closed, as they are known to investigate and sometimes damage vehicles!
Navigating the Milford Road
Drivers should be prepared for a significant amount of driving time, as the road is not designed for high speeds. Numerous viewpoints, short walking tracks, and natural attractions like the Mirror Lakes, the Chasm, and the Key Summit track are along the way, encouraging frequent stops. It's advisable to start your journey early and allow a full day for the round trip from Te Anau, or longer if coming from Queenstown.
For those uncomfortable with driving on the left or navigating the winding roads, numerous tour operators offer coach services from Queenstown and Te Anau. These tours often include stops at key attractions and provide commentary, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the spectacular Fiordland landscape without the stress of driving.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit