Funding for the next implementation phase of the Milford Opportunities Project

Piopiotahi – Milford Sound is one step closer to being restored and reimagined after funding was recently announced by the New Zealand government.

Tourism Minister Stuart Nash outlined a $200m injection for tourism communities that included $15 million towards the next implementation phase of the Milford Opportunities Project. This plan will support the social and economic recovery of tourism communities after the impacts of COVID19, and re-build tourism on more sustainable foundations.

Project partners Stantec and Boffa Miskell, and a diverse team of specialist sub-consultants, in conjunction with Ngāi Tahu, local community, and stakeholders produced the masterplan for the Milford Opportunities Project. With 18 different workstreams and a challenging timeframe the project is an exemplar of a well-planned, cohesive team working together towards protecting Aotearoa New Zealand’s premier visitor attraction.

The masterplan addresses challenges faced by the area such as conservation compromise through increasing visitor numbers, aging infrastructure, congested access and uncoordinated experiences.

“It provides comprehensive reimagining and future-proofing of not only the corridor from Te Anau to Milford Sound Piopiotahi, but the wider Southland area as well,” said Tim Church, Masterplan Lead from Boffa Miskell.

“This reinvigorated area-wide vision also enables opportunity to develop other destinations within the region.”

See the Government’s press release here

Photo by Antoine Barrès on Unsplash

For further information please contact Tim Church, Jane Rennie or Katie Chilton