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A Milford Sound day tour operated by Cheeky Kiwi Travel has been ranked among the world’s best tourism experiences in the 2026 Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best.
The company’s Milford Sound Tour and Cruise from Queenstown placed fifth globally in Tripadvisor’s Day Cruise Experiences category, based on traveller reviews. The awards recognise the top one per cent of tourism experiences worldwide.
Cheeky Kiwi Travel also recorded strong regional results, with two tours ranked among the Top 15 experiences in the South Pacific. Its Milford Sound experience placed third regionally, while its Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Auckland ranked sixth.
The Milford Sound tour is now ranked as the top activity in New Zealand on Tripadvisor based on traveller feedback over the past 12 months.
Cheeky Kiwi Travel operates more than 50 small-group tours across New Zealand, including experiences in Milford Sound, Hobbiton, Rotorua, Waitomo Caves, Aoraki / Mount Cook and Franz Josef.
Recognition for New Zealand experiences
Cheeky Kiwi Travel general manager Rhys Utting says the ranking highlights the quality of New Zealand tourism experiences on the international stage.
“To be ranked #5 in the world is a huge result for a New Zealand operator,” Rhys says.
“What we’re most proud of is the effort our guides put in every day to make each experience memorable – it’s those small, extra touches that travellers remember and review.”
Rhys says the awards carry particular significance because they are based entirely on customer reviews.
“It comes directly from the people who have experienced the tours. That’s what makes it meaningful.”
International competition
The recognition comes as New Zealand tourism operators continue competing for international visitors, with experience quality and customer service playing an increasingly important role in attracting travellers.
Rhys says the result reflected a wider team effort across the business.
“It reflects the work of our crew, our partners and the guests who choose to travel with us.”
