Maori legend tells us the great god Tu-to-Rakiwhanoa hacked and slashed Fiordland into existence with his axe.

Honing his technique on Nancy, Caswell and Doubtful Sounds, Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) represents the peak of his talent and ambition.

The goddess of death, Te-Hine-nui-to-po, recognising the quality of Tu's work and fearing a mass migration into Piopiotahi released the namu, or sandflies. The namu and the abundant rain have proved sufficient to deter any permenant settling to this day.

A visit to Milford without both a camera and insect repellant would be a mistake.