Risk Disclosure

Air Milford Risk Disclosure Statement

We are committed to delivering a safe and enjoyable experience. We take all care to ensure your safety, however, there are inherent risks in the nature of our activity (and others associated that we connect to e.g. cruise). To ensure your safety guests must follow the instructions of our team at all times, be physically capable of undertaking the activity, and not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Risks may include slips, falls, drowning, collisions which may result in serious injury or death.

Visitors to remote destinations should be aware that these areas are exposed to various natural hazards. Remote destinations include locations such as but not limited to, Milford Sound, Martins Bay, Ryans Creek (Stewart Island), Walter Peak, Te Anau Downs, Manapouri, and Aoraki Mount Cook.

These remote locations only have limited medical facilities, equivalent of basic to advanced first aid. All visitors (especially those with underlying medical conditions or who are pregnant) need to be aware that medical assistance can be at least several hours away by ambulance or rescue helicopter.

Natural Disaster

Earthquake

The Alpine Fault, stretching 800 km along the South Island, is one of the world’s major geological features. It is responsible for many of the geological formations in Milford Sound. The fault is active, with major ruptures occurring every 300 years, the last significant event being in 1717 AD.

Ruptures are expected to exceed Magnitude 8, and the next event could be extremely destructive, potentially triggering landslides and a localized tsunami. A Magnitude 8 earthquake would likely damage critical infrastructure, including key road networks.

Tsunami

Some remote destinations are at risk of both local and distant tsunami events. A major earthquake (Magnitude 8 or higher) could trigger a landslide-induced tsunami. The large volume of displaced water could lead to significant wave heights and tsunami run-up.

In areas like Milford Sound, where many visitors are present, a tsunami of any significant size would pose a serious risk. The only warning would be the initial earthquake.

Severe Weather Events

Flooding

Fiordland National Park receives over 7 meters of rainfall annually. Due to low soil absorption, rain quickly runs into lakes, rivers, or the sea. Rainfall can reach 200 mm in 24 hours, with intensities of up to 30 mm per hour. While the road infrastructure can manage most heavy rain, prolonged rainfall may close roads and isolate parts of the region.

Landslides

Landslides are common in remote destinations due to frequent severe weather and soil conditions. Coastal landslides are usually vegetation-based, while inland slides are a mix of rock and soil.

Snow / Avalanche

Avalanches are a threat in the South Island’s mountainous regions, particularly to road networks. Although the Milford Road Alliance takes preventive measures, avalanches still occur periodically.