People don't come to Milford Sound to shop. The only shopping here is very much tourist-orientated, such as postcards and key rings, which can be had at the bus terminal and the Milford Sound Lodge shop.
Queenstown, on the other hand, has excellent shopping options. In fact, it is on par with much larger towns on choice and quality, with Canterbury Clothing and designer labels, for example.
When to Shop and Where
Head for the bus terminal at the ferry pier for postcards and the like in Milford Sound. For odds and ends, the Milford Sound Lodge shop - a kilometre back along the highway - has better options. For food, stick with the Blue Duck Cafe and Bar, between the airport and the pier.
Queenstown is souvenir heaven, loaded as it is with touristy stores, bargain outlets and a quality shopping mall. You can pick up some great quality fur products and knitwear here, along with jade stones and a huge range of sporting outfits.
There is also a good range of supermarkets and convenience stores to stock up at before heading for a long trek and shops usually stay open until about 21:00. Te Anau also has a supermarket, so you can wait until you get there if heading for the Milford Track.
More information about Queenstown shopping.
