Te Anau, located in New Zealand’s South Island is a must-visit hotspot. As the gateway to Fiordland, this charming town has lots to explore. To help plan your trip we’ve put together an insider’s guide featuring our top picks for activities, dining spots, places to stay, and most importantly how to get to Te Anau. With iconic attractions like Milford Sound, the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary, and the Glowworm Caves to visit, along with tackling one of the Great Walks, you won’t be short of an adventure. Let this guide help you plan an unforgettable trip to Te Anau.
Getting to Te Anau
The journey to Te Anau offers breathtaking views and picturesque landscapes. The most popular route is from Queenstown to Te Anau, and renting a car is a great choice. You can conveniently rent a car from our Queenstown location, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
As you set out on the scenic 2-hour drive from Queenstown to Te Anau, it's important to drive carefully, keeping an eye on speed limits and road conditions, especially on winding mountain roads. Be sure to leave plenty of time to stop along the way and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and lush greenery.
Activities in Te Anau
There's no shortage of activities and sights to explore in Te Anau! To ensure you make the most of your trip, we've put together a list of our top activities to check out.
The Great Walks:
If you're looking for a hiking adventure, Te Anau is the place to be! Nestled near three of New Zealand's famous Great Walks—the Kepler Track, Routeburn Track, and Milford Track—Te Anau offers options for both full-track or partial-track hikes. The duration of each trek varies between 2 to 4 days, depending on your chosen route.
The official hiking season runs from the end of October to the end of April. Outside of this season, it's recommended to attempt these walks only if you have a high level of backcountry experience. Be sure to book ahead with the Department Of Conversation to secure your spot and avoid missing out!
With beautiful views of lakes, mountains, and native forests, there's a trail suited for every level of adventurer.
Milford Sound:
No trip to Te Anau is complete without visiting Milford Sound. The scenic drive takes around 2 hours without stops.
Prepare to be captivated by what many call the Eighth Wonder of the World. Experience the awe-inspiring fjords where rainforests meet cascading waterfalls, and spot abundant wildlife like penguins, seals, and dolphins! Mitre Peak is an unbelievable sight soaring over a kilometre from the sea.
You have plenty of options for exploring Milford Sound, ranging from self-driving and booking a cruise, or joining a coach and cruise tour departing from Te Anau or Queenstown, to booking a scenic flight for a unique perspective.
Glow Worm Caves:
Set off on an enchanting journey into the world of glow worms with a guided tour of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. Hop aboard a boat and glide through the caves, where you'll be awestruck by the mesmerising glow of thousands of glowworms, creating a magical spectacle.
Your adventure begins with a scenic cruise on Lake Te Anau, followed by exploring the waterfalls before entering the caves. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you'll uncover the caves' fascinating history and secrets. Suitable for all ages, this approximately 2-hour and 15-minute trip is perfect for families.
Te Anau Bird Sanctuary:
Discover the incredible wildlife Te Anau has to offer at the bird sanctuary, a fantastic family-friendly destination with free entry for self-guided visits.
Encounter special birds like the flightless Takahe and the endangered Kaka, among many others as you explore the sanctuary. Situated on the shores of Lake Te Anau, it's the perfect addition to your itinerary, especially if you're already planning a glow worm cave tour!
Where to stay in Te Anau
Te Anau offers a wonderful variety of accommodation options, catering to every traveller’s needs, whether you're on a budget or seeking luxury. After a day of adventures, you'll find the perfect spot to retreat to and relax.
If you're traveling on a budget, consider staying at one of Te Anau's affordable backpacker hostels or holiday parks. Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers or Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park are excellent choices. Situated just a short walk from shops, cafes, and restaurants, these accommodations offer comfortable stays and convenient amenities, ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
For those craving a touch of luxury, Te Anau boasts stunning lodges and boutique hotels. Fiordland Lodge offers magnificent views of Lake Te Anau and the mountains. At the same time, The Beech House and Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas provide luxurious accommodations just a stroll away from town.
Where to eat in Te Anau
Indulge in delicious cuisine at Te Anau's local eateries, where a diverse range of flavours awaits. Here are some top spots to satisfy your cravings!
Located in the heart of Te Anau, Ditto Restaurant is a local favourite known for its famous Bao Buns, each bursting with unique flavours. Whether you're a fan of traditional or adventurous tastes, Ditto has something for everyone to enjoy.
Another gem in Te Anau, Redcliff Café offers a delightful dining experience with live music and a menu featuring fresh seafood and mouthwatering lamb, venison, and beef dishes. Vegetarian options like falafels with Greek salad are also available, ensuring there's something to please every palate.
For a great cup of coffee, head to the Sandfly Café. Alongside their excellent brews, they offer an all-day menu mainly focused on breakfast options. With a charming outdoor seating area and a tempting array of goodies at the counter, Sandfly Café is the perfect spot to start your day or enjoy a leisurely afternoon treat.
Start your Te Anau Adventure Today!
Our comprehensive guide is crafted to ensure you experience the best of Te Anau, highlighting must-visit places like Milford Sound, the Bird Sanctuary, and the Glowworm Caves, alongside recommendations for the Great Walks. We've carefully selected top dining and accommodation options to suit all budgets for your stay in Te Anau. This gem of a destination is a key highlight for any New Zealand road trip or quick escape.
Remember, the journey itself is an unforgettable part of your adventure, so take your time and enjoy every moment in New Zealand's stunning scenery.
