Milford Sound Cruise
A stunning fjord, with spectacular waterfalls and towering peaks, best explored via a scenic cruise.
Top hotels & flights
Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Te Anau.
Top Hotels in Te Anau
Top Flights to Te Anau
Popular activities
Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Te Anau.
Tours
Te Anau Bird Sanctuary
A haven for native New Zealand birds, including rare species like the Takahe.
Glowworm Caves
Explore the magical underground world illuminated by glowworms in the Te Anau caves.
Fiordland Cinema
A boutique cinema offering a special short film about Fiordland, as well as mainstream movies.
Te Anau Wildlife Park
Home to various native species in a natural setting, ideal for closer encounters with wildlife.
Lake Te Anau Scenic Cruise
A relaxing cruise on New Zealand's largest lake, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities.
Shopping
Te Anau Town Centre Shopping
A variety of local shops offering souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts.
Outdoor
Kepler Track
A famous 60 km loop hiking track through beech forest, tussock grasslands, and alpine mountain landscapes.
Ivan Wilson Park
A tranquil spot for picnics, family activities, and enjoying nature, with nearby walking trails.
Fiordland Jet
Experience the thrill of jet boating on the Waiau River and across Lake Manapouri.
Location videos
Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.
From travelers
Watch & explore
Practical info
The essentials for planning your time in Te Anau.
Currency
$ | NZD | New Zealand Dollar
Population
2250.0
Languages
English, English
Local guide
What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Te Anau.
What people love
Te Anau, located in Southland, New Zealand, is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Te Anau:
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Gateway to Fiordland National Park: Te Anau is the gateway to the stunning Fiordland National Park, known for its dramatic fjords, waterfalls, and pristine wilderness. Visitors to Te Anau can easily access popular attractions such as Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound from here.
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Scenic beauty: Te Anau is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in the South Island of New Zealand. The town itself is nestled amidst mountains and forests, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
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Great hiking opportunities: Te Anau is a popular base for hikers looking to explore the famous Kepler Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks. The track offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and forests, making it a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Peaceful and tranquil atmosphere: Te Anau is a quiet and peaceful town, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town has a laid-back vibe, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore at a leisurely pace.
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Cultural experiences: Te Anau is home to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where visitors can take a guided tour to see thousands of glowworms illuminating the dark caves. This unique natural phenomenon is a must-see when visiting Te Anau.
Overall, traveling to Te Anau offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences, making it a great destination for all types of travelers.
Enjoy your trip to Te Anau!
What to know
Te Anau is a beautiful destination in New Zealand, but like any travel destination, it does have some cons. Some potential cons of traveling to Te Anau in Southland, New Zealand, include:
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Remote Location: Te Anau is relatively remote and isolated, which can make transportation to and from the town more challenging. The nearest international airport is in Queenstown, about a two-hour drive away.
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Limited Dining Options: While Te Anau does have some restaurants and cafes, the dining options may be more limited compared to larger cities. Visitors with specific dietary requirements may find it challenging to find suitable options.
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Weather: Southland, including Te Anau, is known for its changeable weather. Travelers should be prepared for sudden weather changes, including rain, wind, and even snow in the colder months.
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Seasonal Crowds: Te Anau is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months (December to February) when crowds can be larger. This may result in crowded attractions and accommodations, making it harder to find availability or enjoy a more peaceful experience.
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Limited Activities: While Te Anau is a great base for exploring the stunning Fiordland National Park, some visitors may find that there are limited activities within the town itself. Those looking for a bustling nightlife or a wide range of entertainment options may be disappointed.
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Sandflies: Te Anau and the surrounding Fiordland region are known for their pesky sandflies, which can be a nuisance, especially during the warmer months. Travelers should come prepared with insect repellent to avoid bites.
Remember that these cons are subjective and may not be significant issues for all travelers. It's always a good idea to research thoroughly and consider your own preferences and travel needs before visiting Te Anau.