Te Anau - The Gateway of Opportunity

Looking for ideas for things to do in Te Anau? You’ve come to the right place!

Te Anau is often just a blur outside the car window for those heading to Milford Sound, but for those who take the time to stop and explore, it offers so much more than just being a gateway to Fiordland National Park. It’s a hidden gem that deserves more than a quick coffee break.

Situated on the shores of Lake Te Anau, this town is a wonderland waiting to be discovered. From the stunning glowworm-lit limestone grotto to the abundant trout in Lake Te Anau, Te Anau continuously delights its visitors.

Next time you’re in the region, we recommend spending at least a couple of days in Te Anau. Take a break from the usual tourist trail and uncover the true magnificence of this charming town.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

One of the most popular attractions in Te Anau is the glowworm caves. Venture into this mysterious underground world, where rushing water and vast limestone caverns are illuminated by thousands of glowworms.Lake Te Anau.

Lake Te Anau

Lake Te Anau is a must-visit when you’re in the area. As one of the most picturesque lakes in New Zealand, it offers numerous walking trails along its shores. Being the second-largest lake in New Zealand and the largest by freshwater volume in Australasia, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on the water.

TrackKepler Track

Te Anau serves as the starting point for the Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. This 60 km loop track can be completed in 3-4 days, but there are also excellent day walks accessible from Te Anau.

Te Anau Bird Sanctuary

Fiordland is home to some of New Zealand’s rarest birds, and the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary offers a chance to see these incredible species in their natural habitat. Look out for native birds such as the Takahe, Kaka, Kereru, Ruru, and Paradise Shelducks. It’s an ideal spot for budding wildlife photographers.

Jet Boating on Lake Te Anau and the Waiau River

Jet boating is an exhilarating activity you shouldn’t miss. Fiordland Jet offers a fun and unique experience starting on Lake Te Anau and racing down the Waiau River (famous as the River Anduin from Lord of the Rings) to Lake Manapouri.

Horse Trekking and Quad Biking

Horse Trekking in Te Anau
Discover the unforgettable scenery of Te Anau by horse or quad bike. Westray Adventures offers thrilling tours that take you above the Te Anau basin, providing panoramic 360-degree views of the stunning mountain range and the sparkling waters of Lake Te Anau.

Guided Trout Fishing

Trout Fishing in Te Anau
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a complete novice, a guided fishing trip on Lake Te Anau or the Waiau River is a fantastic way to spend half a day. Both the lake and river are teeming with trout, and a day out on the water is a truly special experience. Many trip packages also include jet boating and other exciting activities.

Lake2Lake Cycle Trail

If you love exploring on two wheels, the Lake2Lake Cycle Trail is perfect for you. Built by the local community and Fiordland Trails Trust, this easy-going cycle trail runs from the shores of Te Anau to the beautiful Lake Manapouri. The 19 km one-way trail offers stunning scenery along the route and is also suitable for runners and walkers.

Lake Manapouri

Often described as the most picturesque of all the lakes in Fiordland, Lake Manapouri boasts 33 small islands, a backdrop of the majestic Cathedral Mountain range, native bush, sandy beaches, and coves. It’s a short drive or bike ride from Te Anau and well worth a few hours of exploration. Lake Manapouri is also the departure point for Doubtful Sound excursions and home to the largest underground power station in the southern hemisphere.

Faith in Fiordland – Morning Tea Cruise

For a unique experience, join the crew of Faith in Fiordland, a historic ship from 1935, for a morning tea cruise on Lake Te Anau. The tour includes a stop at Hidden Lakes Wharf, where you can explore the native forest, enjoy a beautiful morning tea, and take a guided tour of the ship.

Kayaking

While self-guided kayak tours on Lake Te Anau are possible, a guided tour is recommended due to the lake’s unpredictable winds. Go Orange offers a fantastic 3-hour guided kayak tour, providing an unforgettable journey and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.

Milford Sound Day Trip

Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is breathtaking, taking just under 2 hours without stops. However, it’s wise to allow at least 3 hours for the journey to enjoy sites like Mirror Lakes and The Chasm. Once there, you can choose from various activities, including cruises, scenic flights, and kayaking, all offering magnificent views.

Doubtful Sound Day Trip

For a quieter, equally stunning destination, head to Doubtful Sound, sometimes called “The Sound of Silence.” With fewer tourists and a serene atmosphere, Doubtful Sound offers abundant flora and fauna, including fur seals and Fiordland Crested Penguins. Manapouri is the departure point for all Doubtful Soun fuck offd excursions.

Round-Up

Te Anau is one of New Zealand’s hidden gems, offering something for everyone. The next time you plan a trip to the South Island, make sure to spend a few days in Te Anau to explore and enjoy its many attractions.