Leaving Tunnel (5)

The Homer Tunnel is on the Milford Road which runs from Te Anau to Milford Sound. It was opened in 1954 and is 1270 meters long. It was built by hand and the surface is unlined granite. It is basically one way and lights allow vehicles to travel at half hour intervals. During winter vehicles have to wait in an avalanche hazard area which adds to the interest!

The tunnel pierces the main divide of the South Island at the Homer Saddle (1334 meters). The tunnel itself starts at 954 meters altitude and descends at a 1:10 gradient towards the Milford end.