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Te Anau

Te Anau is a lakeside town with Fiordland at its doorstep. Boats cross Lake Te Anau to the glowworm caves, and the road north winds toward Milford Sound.

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Recommendations

Landmark4.6/5

RealNZ | Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Discover the enchantment of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves! Step into a magical underground world adorned with twinkling glowworms that light up like a million stars. Board a boat and glide through a labyrinth of limestone caves, guided by friendly local experts. This illuminating adventure is a must-visit for nature lovers seeking a unique and mesmerizing experience in Te Anau, New Zealand!

Landmark4.9/5

Ivon Wilson Recreational Reserve

Welcome to the Ivon Wilson Recreational Reserve in Te Anau, New Zealand! This place is an absolute playground for outdoor enthusiasts. With stunning hiking and biking trails, serene picnic spots by the lake, and even a mini-golf course, you'll be spoiled for choice. So, pack your sense of adventure and come discover the wonders of this hidden gem on the Manapouri-Te Anau Highway!

Landmark4.8/5

Fiordland Cinema

Looking for a unique movie experience? Look no further than Fiordland Cinema in the beautiful town of Te Anau, New Zealand. Nestled in the heart of Fiordland National Park, this quirky cinema offers comfy seats, stunning mountain views, and a personalized in-seat snack and drink service. Sit back, relax, and soak up the magic of the big screen in this one-of-a-kind destination.

Landmark5/5

Fiordland Jet

Experience an exhilarating adventure with Fiordland Jet! Hop aboard their high-speed jet boat and zoom through the pristine waters of Lake Te Anau. Feel the wind in your hair as you navigate through majestic fiords and breathtaking landscapes. This thrilling ride is a must-do for adrenaline junkies seeking an unforgettable experience in beautiful Te Anau, New Zealand.

Culture4.8/5

Te Anau Vintage Machinery Museum

Te Anau's vintage machinery museum fills a garage-like building with restored tractors, vehicles and planes. You can try the adult-sized pedal cars.

Landmark5/5

Fiordland Tours

Te Anau Milford Sound day tours with a boat cruise, roadside stops and guides sharing local history.

Culture4.8/5

Fiordland Arts Hub Gallery

This Te Anau gallery sells pottery, paintings, wool crafts and local art. You can watch wool spinning and make felted coasters at its craft station.

Landmark5/5

Southern Secret Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

This overnight cruise takes a small group through Doubtful Sound, with kayaking and swimming. The skipper turns off the engines, and the fiord goes quiet.

Eat$$$4.1/5

Paradiso Pizzeria

Te Anau pizzeria with thin-crust pizzas and calzones. Pizzas come straight from a huge wood-fired oven.

Landmark

Miro Street

Street in Te Anau, New Zealand.

Landmark4.4/5

Punanga Manu o Te Anau / Te Anau Bird Sanctuary

Step into the enchanting world of Punanga Manu o Te Anau, a delightful bird sanctuary nestled on the fringe of Te Anau. Wander through lush landscapes alive with New Zealand's unique avian wonders, including the iconic kiwi and cheeky takahe. Perfect for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts, this serene haven is a must-see for your Kiwi adventure!

Cafe$$$4.6/5

Sandfly Cafe Te Anau

Nestled in the heart of Te Anau, Sandfly Cafe is a hidden gem for weary travelers in search of a delicious refuel. Bursting with quirky charm, this cafe offers a tantalizing array of dishes, from mouthwatering burgers to fresh seafood platters. With friendly staff and cozy ambiance, it's the perfect spot to unwind after an adventure-packed day in beautiful New Zealand. Don't miss their famous homemade pies!

Drink$$$4/5

The Moose Bar and Armadillos Restaurant

Looking for a uniquely Kiwi watering hole? Look no further than The Moose Tavern in picturesque Te Anau! With its cozy cabin-like interior, a menu bursting with hearty pub grub, and a stellar selection of local beers, this place is bound to make any traveler feel right at home. Don't forget to join in on their legendary trivia nights for a good laugh and some friendly competition!

Eat$$$4.4/5

The Fat Duck

Located in the heart of Te Anau, The Fat Duck welcomes hungry travelers with open wings. This quirky eatery delightfully blends traditional Kiwi flavors with international culinary flair. From their mouthwatering lamb shanks to their scrumptious pavlova, every bite transports you to food heaven. Prepare to be indulged in a charming atmosphere that reflects the warm hospitality of New Zealand.

Eat$$$4.3/5

La Toscana Pizzeria

Located in the heart of Te Anau, La Toscana Pizzeria is a lively spot that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy. Indulge in their mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas, made with locally sourced ingredients and bursting with flavor. With its charming atmosphere and friendly staff, this pizzeria is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the stunning landscapes of New Zealand. Buon appetito!

Cafe$$$4.3/5

Olive Tree Cafe Te Anau

This Te Anau cafe serves matcha, bubble tea, coffee, laksa and dumplings. Toys keep children occupied at the tables.

Cafe$$$$4.6/5

Redcliff Restaurant and bar

Nestled in the stunning Fiordland region of New Zealand, Redcliff Cafe is a whimsical haven for weary travelers. With its quirky decor and lively atmosphere, this little gem on Mokonui Street offers a delightful retreat. Indulge in their famous Kiwi-inspired dishes, sip on a decadent flat white, and soak in the stunning mountain views. It's a taste bud adventure you won't want to miss!

Eat$$4.5/5

Miles Better Pies

Located at 1 Lakefront Drive, Miles Better Pies in Te Anau, New Zealand is a pie paradise for weary travelers. With a delightful range of flavors like classic steak and cheese or adventurous venison and cranberry, these flaky wonders will have your taste buds leaping with joy! Grab your pie to-go and savor it while enjoying the stunning lake views. Pure pie perfection!

Eat$$$4.1/5

The Ranch Bar & Grill

Get your taste buds ready for a wild ride at The Ranch Bar & Grill in Te Anau, New Zealand! Saddle up and mosey on over to this lively spot located at 111 Town Centre. With its vibrant atmosphere, mouthwatering menu, and friendly staff, you'll feel like a seasoned cowboy in no time. Don't miss out on this rodeo of flavors!

Eat$$$4.8/5

Black Dog Bar

Te Anau bar and restaurant with cocktails and venison.

Stays

Stay$$$4.55/5

Arran Motel

Arran Motel offers self-catering accommodation in the village of Te Anau, close to the world-famous Milford Sound. Apartments feature free Wi-Fi and flat-screen satellite TV. All of the comfortably decorated apartments Arran Motel Te Anau include a private bathroom with hairdryer, plus heating and electric blankets. Some apartments feature a kitchenette. Each unit is fully serviced every day. The relaxing gardens around Arran Motel are furnished with barbecue facilities. Laundry facilities are available for guests’ use. Arran Motel is just a short walk from the centre of Te Anau, where guests can find a number of restaurants. The motel provides free private parking for guests. "A Continental Breakfast is available but must be requested by 6.00pm the night before" .

Stay$$$$4.6/5

Radfords on the Lake

Radfords on the Lake is proudly recognised with Qualmark 5 Star with Gold level Certification for Sustainability and Ekos Nett Zero Carbon Certification Offering lake and mountain views, Radfords on the Lake is located across the road from Lake Te Anau. Free car parking is provided outside each apartment. Accommodation at Radfords Te Anau is fully self-contained and includes a TV. Free Wi-Fi and online New Zealand newspapers are available throughout the motel. Secure luggage storage is provided. Radfords on the Lake is a 3-minute walk from Te Anau town centre. The departure point for tours of Te Anau Glowworm Caves is just 300 metres from the motel.

Stay$$3.95/5

Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau

Situated next to Lake Te Anau, Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau is within walking distance of the town centre. It offers excellent walking opportunities nearby and free onsite parking. Unlimited free WiFi is included. The comfortable rooms offer en suite bathrooms and modern facilities. The hotel has a communal lounge with a fireplace. Breakfast and dinner are served daily at Bluestone Restaurant, where guests can enjoy stunning lake views throughout the year. Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and Manapouri are easily accessible for day trips, which can be organised by Kingsgate staff. It is a 2-hour drive to Queenstown and Invercargill airports.

Stay$4.15/5

Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park

Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park and Motels are 2 minutes’ walk from Te Anau’s restaurants, bars and shops. Guests enjoy a communal lounge area with a log fireplace and a 48-inch flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Accommodation options include dormitory and private rooms, chalets and self-contained houses. There is a large shared kitchen, a laundry room and shared bathroom facilities available for all guests. You can play a game of foosball in the guest lounge, or enjoy an outdoor meal in the BBQ area. There is a modern children’s playground and extensive gardens and grounds to explore. Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park and Motels is 5 minutes’ walk from lakefront activities and is an ideal base for exploring the Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park, both within 2 hours’ drive.

Stay$$$4.05/5

Distinction Luxmore Hotel Te Anau

Distinction Luxmore Hotel is located in Te Anau's town centre, a short stroll from Lake Te Anau. It offers a wide range of accommodation with Fiordland-themed décor. Guests enjoy a fitness centre and free WiFi throughout the property. All of the rooms at Luxmore include a private bathroom and tea/coffee making facilities. Free on-site parking is included with all accommodation. The hotel offers 2 dining experiences, Bailiez Cafe & Bar which has a cafe style menu and the bar with a fireplace and Hilights Restaurant known for its buffet breakfast and carvery buffet dinners. Distinction Luxmore Hotel is a 14-minute walk from Fiordland National Park Visitors Centre. It is a 4-minutes drive from Te Anau-Milford Highway.

Stay$$3.35/5

Fiordland Hotel

Set on expansive grounds, Fiordland Hotel is situated in Te Anau, 500 metres from the lake. The town centre is a 10-minute walk from the property. There are lake and mountain views from most rooms. A choice of hotel rooms are available. All units are non-smoking and feature an en suite bathroom and tea and coffee making facilities. Some rooms include a bath to relax in. Other facilities at the property include a TV lounge and games room with a billiards table, darts and table tennis. There are walking paths around the hotel, and we are happy to help you book a Doubtful Sound or Milford Sound excursion.

Stay4.8/5

Te Anau Lodge

This former convent lodge is full of woodwork and rooms with individual character. Tea and cakes are set out in the library.

Stay4.7/5

Fiordland Lodge Te Anau

Te Anau lodge with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Lake Te Anau. Hot tubs have the same lake views.

Stay4.6/5

Lakefront Lodge Te Anau

Lakefront lodge in Te Anau with lake views from the rooms.

Stay4.1/5

Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas

Looking for the perfect hideaway in stunning New Zealand? Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas on 64 Lakefront Drive is your ultimate spot! Nestled in Te Anau with breathtaking lake views, this hotel offers modern rooms and luxurious villas for any traveler seeking relaxation and adventure. With top-notch amenities, friendly staff, and a prime location, this is your gateway to the wonders of Fiordland National Park. Come and indulge in the magic!

Things To Do
Provided by

4.7/5

7 h

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise from Manapouri

Experience an 8-hour day trip into the remote wilderness of Doubtful Sound, the heart of Fiordland National Park, while nature guides answer questions and point out landmarks. This fiord is home to bottlenose dolphins and fur seals - both are often seen. In season, you may even catch a glimpse of the rare Fiordland crested penguins. Explore Doubtful Sound's vast waterways on board a luxurious vessel. A highlight is experiencing the unique 'Sound of Silence', where you hear only birdsong while floating on the fiord with the engines turned off. If you wish to pre-order a picnic lunch, please contact the supplier directly after you have made your booking. Please be sure you arrive 20 minute before departure to check in.

$167.09

4.5/5

2 h 15 mins

Te Anau Glow Worm Caves Tour

The fascinating Te Anau caves system on the western shore of Lake Te Anau offers an underground adventure that charms visitors of all ages. This tour takes you to a mysterious underground world of rushing water before drifting in silent darkness beneath the luminous shimmer of thousands of glowworms. Please be sure to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure to check in.

$75.05

5/5

4 h

Fiordland Jet Boat and Biking Combo from Te Anau

At Fiordland Jet we want to take tourism back to what it use to be! With a small group of 11-13 passengers per boat, our tours are all about making a personal connection with each one of our guests. This is an interactive tour - not just a thrill ride. We are the only commercial scenic operators on these waterways, which gives guests a truly unique opportunity to experience the magic of Fiordland without long lines or crowds

$148.35

4.8/5

Fiordland Heli-hike from Te Anau

Departing from our Te Anau lakeside base, the journey begins by soaring over Lake Te Anau. Soak up views of the Hidden Lakes before flying above the local’s playground. We land at a mountain tarn with views over the Main Divide. Once airborne again, you’ll fly over the remote Kepler Mountains before getting dropped off at the Luxmore Hut. The starting point of your hike. Soak up the amazing views from Luxmore Summit, before descending onto the shores of Lake Te Anau. Duration of hike: 3 hours or 6 hours if you including additional Summit Track Duration: Scenic flight: 25min Hike: 3 or 6 hours Boat trip back to town centre: 10min

$281.71

5/5

8 h

Scenic Helicopter & Kepler Guided Hike from Te Anau with Lunch

Your wonderful day begins with an amazing helicopter flight. This is an extended flight – more than just getting you to the start of the track. We fly over the largest lake in the South Island (Lake Te Anau) before cruising over a group of “hidden lakes” that can only be seen from the air. Our first landing is a 10 minute stop on Mt Maury. This landing site is 100m higher than the mountain we will be walking on, so allows you to see the amazing views from above. We then land at the Luxmore Hut and begin your hike through some wonderful alpine vegetation with our knowledgeable guide who will share their expertise in a friendly and sometimes humorous way. We are now walking part of the Kepler Track. The views from the Luxmore Hut never cease to amaze. From here you have the opportunity to take a hike to the top of Mt Luxmore or start the easy hike down to the shores of the lake. A boat awaits us for our short cruise to the east side of Lake Te Anau.

$464.84

5/5

1 h

Dusky Sound // Helicopter Scenic Flight

Lifting off from our base at the Manapouri Te Anau Airport, you will immediately enjoy stunning views over Lake Manapouri, before you travel west towards the main divide of Te- Rua -o -te-Moko Fiordland National Park. Soar over hidden tarns (lakes), crystal clear rivers, pristine forest and ancient glacial carved valleys as you make your way to Tamatea Dusky Sound. Certain times of year there will be snow on the tops of the mountains which stretch out to the coast of the Tasman Sea. Two remote landing will be carried out, where you can step foot in some of the most remote parts of New Zealand and take photos of your adventure into the wilderness.

$666.14

5/5

Te Anau Jetboat Experience, Kepler Guided Hike, Transport & Lunch

The most scenic jet boat ride ever: see actual “Lord of the Rings” film locations on the way down to the beautiful Lake Manapouri. On the way down the river you will get the chance to spot rainbow and brown trout. There is an amazing view around every river bend. The ride has a pinch of adrenalin and heaps of natural beauty. Lake Manapouri is amazing and you may not see another boat in sight. Your start of part of the Kepler Track begins on disembarking from the boat at approximately 12:00 pm. A leisurely guided walk begins through towering Beech trees and even taller Rimu trees. Our guide will share his/her knowledge with you; Native trees, ferns and the occasional Bellbirds, Tuis, friendly Fantails, Tomtits, Finches and Robins will keep your camera clicking. The hike concludes at the large suspension bridge at Rainbow Reach where your transport awaits to take you back to Te Anau

$261.22

5/5

9 h 15 mins

Epic Milford Guided Tour from Te Anau

Explore the magic of Milford Sound on our, unforgettable Milford Sound Day Tour! Discover New Zealand’s pristine beauty as you journey through Fiordland's rugged landscapes, awe-inspiring peaks, and glistening waters. Our carefully curated tour combines the thrill of adventure with moments of serene relaxation, showcasing the unparalleled wonders of this World Heritage site. You’ll be transported in comfort with breathtaking scenic stops along the way, guided by passionate locals who share insights into the area’s geology, history, and wildlife. Capture sweeping views of waterfalls cascading down towering cliffs and glistening fiords that define Milford Sound’s untamed allure. You also have a chance at encountering New Zealand’s iconic seals, playful dolphins, and diverse bird species. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and let the magic of Milford Sound create lasting memories on this extraordinary day tour. Perfect for nature lovers, families, and adventurers alike!

$173.95

5/5

8 h

Routeburn Guided Day Hike from Te Anau with Lunch & Transport

Take in stunning panoramic views of mountains and alpine lakes on this half-day, fully guided small-group hike along the Routeburn Track to Key Summit. Limited to just 12 guests, you'll explore alpine lakes, valleys, and ancient forests with a knowledgeable guide. Begin with a scenic drive along Milford Road and enjoy morning tea with freshly baked treats before hiking the well-formed track, suitable for various fitness levels. Weather permitting, additional viewpoints may be included, and even in rain, the scenery remains breathtaking. A packed picnic lunch, small group setting, and flexibility make this a must-do Fiordland adventure.

$191.40

4.7/5

9 h

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise from Te Anau

Your Doubtful Sound adventure begins as you cruise the crystal clear waters of Lake Manapouri. Then it's over Wilmot Pass, stopping along the way to experience some of Fiordland's densest rainforest and to view the colorful alpine moss gardens before joining the 2-hour 45-minute Doubtful Sound Cruise that takes in the most dramatic scenery of Doubtful Sound.

$222.82

5/5

50 mins

Milford Track Multi-Night Hike - Water Taxi Transport ONLY

* First Boat to the Milford Track * Small and personal family company offering premium service and a fun commentary along the way * Get to know your fellow hikers *NOTE this includes water taxi transport on and off the Milford Track only

$142.54

4.5/5

20 mins

Taste of Fiordland // Helicopter Scenic Flight from Te Anau

Admire New Zealand’s natural beauty from the air on this 25-minute scenic helicopter flight over Fiordland from Te Anau. Soar high over Fiordland with a guide and admire panoramic views over natural landmarks including Lake Manapouri, Lake Te Anau and the Kepler Track one of New Zealand's Great Walks.

$229.80

5/5

6 h

Milford Track Day Walk with Lake Te Anau Water Taxi

Board our water taxi for small boat transport to and from the Milford Track - a great day walk for all ages including families.

$78.54

5/5

8 h

Lake Marian Guided Hike with Transfers, Lunch & Morning Tea

Lake Marian Day Walk offers a captivating hike to one of Fiordland’s hidden gems. This full-day experience leads you to Lake Marian, a stunning alpine lake nestled in a hanging valley, surrounded by towering mountains. We’ll pick you up from your Te Anau accommodation for a scenic drive along the Milford Road, with photo stops in Fiordland National Park. The hike begins with a gentle walk beside cascading waterfalls before ascending through lush forests of fuchsia, ribbonwood, and beech trees. Enjoy a delightful morning tea with fresh baking and refreshments at a scenic stop. The walk to Lake Marian and back takes around 5 hours, with time to explore the lake’s southern side. If weather affects our time at the lake, we’ll explore other short walks along the Hollyford Valley.

$191.40

5/5

9 h 30 mins

Award Winning Milford Sound Full Day Tour & Cruise from Te Anau

Discover the spectacular beauty of Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park on an extended 9-hour small-group tour from Te Anau, limited to 16 guests. Travel the famous Milford Road with an experienced local guide, enjoying scenic stops, short walks and photo opportunities through glacier-carved valleys, ancient rainforest and dramatic waterfalls. Enjoy freshly baked morning tea along the way before arriving in Milford Sound for a 1-hour 45-minute nature cruise. Take in towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and incredible Fiordland scenery, with opportunities to spot kea, seals, dolphins and the elusive Fiordland crested penguin. After the cruise, enjoy free time to explore the Milford Sound waterfront. For an unforgettable aerial perspective, upgrade to a 30-minute scenic helicopter flight with a mountain-top landing, departing from and returning to Milford Sound, or choose to helicopter directly back to Te Anau.

$183.26

4.6/5

7 h 45 mins

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Cruise & Glass-Roof Coach Tour

Be mesmerized by the World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound on this full-day tour from Te Anau.

$133.23

4.7/5

9 h

Milford Sound Coach, Cruise and Flight Sightseeing Tour from Queenstown

Experience the perfect combination of a scenic coach ride to Milford Sound, a two hour cruise on the spectacular fiord and then top the day off with a flight over an untouched mountain wilderness back to Queenstown.

$586.43

4.8/5

48 h

Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

Experience the natural beauty of Doubtful Sound on an overnight cruise departing from Manapouri on New Zealand’s South Island. Cruise on a traditional two-mast sailing scow (flat-bottomed trading boat) along the pristine waters of the fiords, and see a vast array of wildlife including dolphins, seals and penguins in their natural habitats. Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to check in.

$464.84

5/5

1 h 30 mins

Doubtful And Dusky Sound Helicopter Scenic Flight from Te Anau

This scenic flight visits both Patea Doubtful Sound and Tamatea Dusky Sound. Two of Fourteen beautiful fiords within the Fiordland National Park. Doubtful Sound is the second largest fiord and is most popular next to Milford Sound. Dusky Sound is one of the largest and complex fiords in Fiordland, being 40km long and 8km at the widest part, it encompasses many islands and was named by Caption Cook in 1773.

$901.76

4.5/5

7 h 30 mins

Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Tour from Te Anau

Join talented and knowledgeable guides on a journey along one of New Zealand's most scenic drives. All guides have unique and insightful stories to share, and spill the secrets of their beautiful backyard as you travel through lush rainforest, glacier carved valleys, alpine lookouts and much more. Enjoy spectacular short walks and incredible photo stops before arriving at the main event, magical Milford Sound. On arrival at Milford Sound, board a spacious catamaran exploration of the region’s most famous fiord. As the boat travels the length of the fiord to the Tasman Sea, the welcoming crew will share what they know about their place, its wildlife, waterfalls, and fascinating history. Enjoy complimentary lunch before joining the crew for a dance in the spray off pure glacial melt as the boat noses close to Stirling Falls for a refreshing finale!