Nestled on the edge of Lake Te Anau and surrounded by majestic mountains, Te Anau is more than just a stopover on the way to Milford or Doubtful Sound it’s a destination packed with charm, adventure, and stunning natural beauty.
Whether you’re chasing epic hikes, peaceful lake views, or glowworms lighting up underground caves, Te Anau has a little something for everyone.
The Gateway to Fiordland
Known as the gateway to Fiordland National Park, Te Anau is the perfect base for exploring two of New Zealand’s most famous fiords Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. But before you rush off, give yourself a day or two here to explore everything this lakeside town has to offer.
Hit the Trails
Te Anau is a hiker’s paradise. It’s the official starting point of the world-famous Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. The full loop takes 3–4 days, but even a short hike to Luxmore Hut rewards you with panoramic views over the lake and surrounding valleys.
Other amazing walks nearby include:
- Lake2Lake Trail – a scenic cycling and walking trail along the Waiau River.
- Control Gates to Brod Bay – a peaceful section of the Kepler Track perfect for day-trippers.
- Lake Marian Track – an hour’s drive away, but worth it for the stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks.
Cruise, Kayak, or Relax
Lake Te Anau is New Zealand’s second-largest lake, and it’s just begging to be explored. You can:
- Hop on a boat cruise and soak in the scenery.
- Go kayaking for a peaceful paddle along the forested shoreline.
- Try fishing in the clear waters for rainbow and brown trout.
- Or just kick back with a coffee or wine at one of the many lakefront cafés and enjoy the view.
- Te Anau Glowworm Caves
One of Te Anau’s most magical attractions is hidden underground. A scenic cruise across the lake takes you to the entrance of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where you’ll walk through twisting limestone passages before gliding silently on a small boat into a grotto lit by thousands of tiny glowworms. It’s a surreal, starlit experience unlike any other.
Birdwatching & Wildlife Encounters
Fiordland is a haven for native wildlife. Visit the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary to get a close look at rare species like the takahē, kākā, and kea. The sanctuary is free to visit and great for families and nature lovers.
Where to Eat & Stay
Te Anau may be small, but its hospitality is big. You’ll find everything from boutique lodges and cozy cabins to lakeside hotels and budget hostels. The local dining scene features hearty kiwi fare, fresh venison, and great coffee, and don’t miss trying the local Southland cheese rolls!
Best Things to Do in Te Anau
- Visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves
- Take a scenic boat cruise across Lake Te Anau and explore a network of limestone caves lit by thousands of glowworms.
- It’s peaceful, magical, and unlike anything else in New Zealand.
- Hike the Kepler Track
- One of New Zealand’s Great Walks starts right in Te Anau.
- Do a full 3–4 day loop or just walk a section (like to Brod Bay or Luxmore Hut) for epic views.
- Cruise Lake Te Anau
- Jump on a daytime or sunset cruise and soak in the views of Fiordland’s dramatic mountains and forests from the water.
- Explore the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary (Punanga Manu o Te Anau)
- A free and family-friendly spot where you can see rare native birds like the takahē, kākā, ruru (morepork), and more.
- Great for photography and learning about conservation.
- Ride the Lake2Lake Cycle Trail
- A scenic bike trail that runs from Te Anau to Manapouri along the Waiau River.
- Suitable for all levels and also great for walking.
- Day Trip to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound
- Te Anau is the best base for visiting both sounds.
- Join a guided coach-cruise combo or drive the stunning Milford Road with plenty of stops along the way.
- Go Kayaking or Fishing
- Rent a kayak and glide over the calm lake waters, or go fly fishing in the surrounding rivers for trout.
- Stay at a Lakeside Lodge or Camp Under the Stars
- Te Anau has some incredible lakeside accommodation options.
- Or stay at a nearby DOC campsite and enjoy world-class stargazing under Fiordland’s dark skies.
- Try Southland’s Famous Cheese Rolls
- Te Anau cafés serve up this iconic southern delicacy, basically a toasted rolled-up slice of white bread filled with cheese and onion mix. Simple and so good.
- Visit Ivon Wilson Park
- Just a short walk from town, this peaceful park is great for picnics, walking, and spotting native birds.
Final Thoughts:
Te Anau is more than a stopover it's a destination in its own right. Its where epic journeys begin, where the stars shine bright, and where nature greets you at your doorstep. So take your time, soak it all in, and let Te Anau surprise you.
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