Te Anau

Te Anau, on the sunny side of the expansive Fiordland National Park, gives a warm welcome to explorers heading into one of New Zealand's most remote regions. This charming lake edge town en route between Queenstown and Milford Sound is ideally positioned for those seeking the wilds of Fiordland.

Things to do in Te Anau

• From Te Anau, three of New Zealand’s Great Walks are accessible: the Milford Track, Routeburn Track, and Kepler Track. Each trail is a unique burst of exploration; the landscapes in this region are incredibly diverse. Though not officially designated as one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Hollyford Track is equally impressive (and less-frequented).

• If multi-day hikes aren’t your thing, there are plenty of shorter walks nearby. These include exploring the ends of the Kepler Track (with water taxi access to Brod Bay) or strolling along the lake’s edge to the outlet and back.

• Embark on a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau, the largest of the southern glacial lakes, or take a jet boat along the Waiau River. 

• The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are also accessed from here, where a subterranean boat trip unveils the  bioluminescent glow worms. Unique to Australasia. 

Great Food, Even Better Backdrop

Te Anau's lakeside location is restful. Unwind and enjoy the local atmosphere - laidback but still vibrant with plenty of restaurants and eateries.This is a stunning little enclave of civilisation against an ocean of wilderness. Sample the best of New Zealand food and wine. 

A Gateway to Doubtful Sound

Te Anau is the primary staging ground for expeditions to Doubtful Sound - the ‘Sound of Silence.’ Less accessible and more remote than Milford, trips to Doubtful Sound are an escape into primaeval wilds. Its deep waters, surrounded by towering sea cliffs and verdant rainforest, are a haven for wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, kekeno (New Zealand fur seals), and Fiordland crested penguins. 

From Te Anau, you take a very scenic cruise  across Lake Manapouri and then travel a short distance over the rugged Wilmot Pass, before finally descending into the breathtaking, quiet beauty of this secluded fiord. There is no one here. A cluster of sheds, a small outdoor school centre, and in front of you, Jurassic Park.