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Nestled on the shores of New Zealand's second-largest lake, Te Anau is the gateway to the breathtaking Fiordland National Park and world-famous Milford Sound. This charming town, surrounded by majestic mountains, offers a blend of adventure and tranquility.
Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or serene natural experiences, Te Anau has something for everyone. Below you’ll find our curated list of the top 10 activities to do in this little corner of New Zealand.
Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour
Step into a world of wonder at the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where nature's own light show awaits. This enchanting underground labyrinth, carved by water over thousands of years, offers a mesmerising experience that begins with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau.
As you venture into the caves, the rush of underground waterfalls fills your ears. But the real magic happens when you enter the glowworm grotto. In hushed silence, you'll glide through darkness punctuated by thousands of tiny, bioluminescent lights – the glowworms themselves, creating a living starscape above you.
The 2.5-hour round trip is suitable for most, though the caves themselves involve some bending and navigating steps, and the caves are not recommended for children under five years old, as the darkness and silence may be unsettling for them.
Note: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a warm layer (the caves are 8-12°C year-round). Booking ahead is also essential as spots are limited.
For a detailed guide on everything you need to know about the iconic Te Anau glowworm cave tour, check out this article here.
Milford Sound Day Tour
No visit to Te Anau is complete without experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound. A guided day tour ensures you get to experience all the best parts of a trip to Milford Sound without having to plan how to manage your time or navigate Milford Round.
The full-day journey takes you through the heart of Fiordland National Park, where towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and pristine forests create a landscape that seems almost too magnificent to be real.
Several well-rated local tour operators run day trips from Te Anau to Milford Sound, each offering their own unique touches to their tours.
Fiordland Tours: Offers small-group tours of up to 16 guests with expert local guides on luxury coaches (not locally owned).
Trips & Tramps: Locally owned operator offering guided tours with optional nature hikes.
Luxe Tours: Locally and family-owned operator offering premium small group tours on luxury coaches.
Milford Sound is stunning in all seasons and weather conditions, and potential wildlife sightings, including keas, seals, dolphins, and rare Fiordland crested penguins add to the excitement. Be sure to book in advance and wear layers to stay comfortable in all weather conditions.
For more detailed information about Milford Sound, Milford Sound tours and how to choose the right tour for you, check out some of the following articles:
Lake2Lake Bike Ride
Pedal your way past stunning lake, riverside, and mountain views on the Lake2Lake Trail, a picturesque journey along the Waiau River, connecting Lake Te Anau to Lake Manapouri. This 28.5-kilometre trail offers a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. With a grade 2 difficulty level, the trail is suitable for all skill levels, and the well-maintained gravel path is mostly flat, making it an enjoyable ride for families and leisure cyclists.
What to Bring
Comfortable cycling clothes
Water
Snacks/packed lunch
Insect repellant
Sunscreen
Camera or phone
Puncture repair kit
For those without bikes, there are several bike hire providers in Te Anau, including both manual and e-bike hire options. Some operators offer shuttle services back to your starting point, allowing you to relax after your ride.
Kepler Track Day Hike
Experience a taste of one of New Zealand's Great Walks with a day hike on the renowned Kepler Track. This scenic track offers several day walk options suitable for various fitness levels and time constraints.
Whether you're seeking a challenging summit climb or a leisurely lakeside stroll, the Kepler provides an unforgettable day exploring nature. Its proximity to Te Anau makes it an ideal addition to any itinerary, allowing you to explore this Great Walk at your own pace.
Water Taxi Hike Options
Conquer Mount Luxmore (Full-day, Moderate to Strenuous)
This full-day hike is one of Fiordland's most rewarding day hikes, seeing you ascend from 200m to 1400m elevation and rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Fiordland and Lake Te Anau.
Catch the Fiordland Outdoors water taxi from the Te Anau Lakefront to Brod Bay, then take the 7-8 hour return hike up Mt Luxmore, returning to Te Anau via water taxi.
Round the Bay (Half-day, Easy)
This easy 10-kilometre hike option is great for families, taking you through native bush and past Te Anau Bird Park.
Catch the water taxi from the Te Anau Lakefront to Brod Bay, then walk for around 2.5 hours back to Te Anau.
Self-Drive Hike Options
Alternatively, you can drive yourself to the Kepler Track car park at the control gates, around 5 kilometres from Te Anau at 202 Golf Course Road. Then you can choose to walk from the car park to Dock Bay (around 1 hour return), or from the car park to Brod Bay (around 1.5-2 hours return). Both options provide an easy walk through native bush to lovely picnic and swimming areas.
What to Bring
Sturdy footwear
Weather-appropriate clothing
Water
Snacks/packed lunch
If your schedule allows, you can also do the full 4-day Kepler Track hike. For everything you need to know about this Great Walk, check out our Kepler Track Ultimate Guide.
Note: The Kepler Track water taxi only operates during the Great Walks season, which runs from late October to early April.
Fiordland Jet Pure Wilderness Tour
Experience the thrill of jet boating through the heart of Fiordland on a Fiordland Jet adventure. This exhilarating ride combines adrenaline-pumping action with stunning scenery along the pristine Waiau River, connecting Lake Te Anau to Lake Manapouri.
As you zoom down the Waiau River to Lake Manapouri, your skilled driver will perform spins, taking them as fast or slow as is comfortable for all on board. Between bursts of speed, you'll have moments to catch your breath and sit in silence with the engines off to take in the stunning scenery and surrounding birdsong. You’ll also get the opportunity to explore native forest and learn about local flora and fauna before heading back to the Te Anau office.
Check-in Location
Check in at the office, 84 Lakefront Drive Te Anau.
Duration
2 hours, including 7- minute bus transfers from the office to the boat ramp.
What to Bring
Warm layers (life jackets and spray jackets provided)
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Camera
Note: Check in at the Te Anau office 15 minutes before your departure time. Parking and secure storage are available at the office.
Scenic Helicopter Flight
Soar above Fiordland's rugged wilderness on an exhilarating helicopter flight with Southern Lakes Helicopters. This bird's-eye adventure offers unparalleled views of the region's stunning landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to pristine alpine lakes. There are numerous flight packages to suit your budget and preferences, and each flight includes an alpine landing and informative commentary from your experienced pilot, bringing the landscape to life with local knowledge.
What to Bring
Warm layers (it can be chilly at higher altitudes)
Waterproof jacket
Sturdy shoes
Phone or camera for photos
Note: Use the bathroom before leaving, as no bathrooms will be available during the flights, and book your flight in advance to ensure availability.
Water & Wings Seaplane Flight
Experience the thrill of a water take-off and landing with a scenic seaplane flight. Choose from a range of flight options to suit your time and budget requirements, including a flight over Doubtful Sound or a mystery flight to a secluded location.
As you skim across the lake's surface and lift into the air, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of the mountains, hidden valleys, and sparkling lakes. The experienced pilot provides informative commentary, sharing insights about the area's geology, flora, and fauna.
What To Bring
Camera or phone
Sunglasses
A light jacket
Note: Book in advance, especially in winter, and use the bathroom before you leave, as there are no bathrooms available during the flights.
The Faith Sailing Boat Trip on Lake Te Anau
Step back in time aboard The Faith, a lovingly restored 19.7-metre wooden motor sailer from 1935. This elegant vessel, built in Scotland and serving during WW2, offers a serene sailing experience on the pristine waters of Lake Te Anau, combining history, nature, and relaxation.
As you glide across the lake, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding Fiordland Landscape. You’ll also receive a personalised commentary from the knowledgeable crew, sharing tales of the boat's rich history and insights into the local flora and fauna.
Day Trip Options
Scenic Cruise and Guided Nature Walk
Duration: 3 hours
Departure times: 9 am and 2 pm
Inclusions: Scenic cruise, personalised commentary, guided nature walk, luxury canapés and refreshments (all dietary requirements can be accommodated).
Evening Champagne Cruise
Duration: 1.5 hours
Departure time: 6 pm
Inclusions: Evening scenic cruise, personalised commentary, luxury canapés and refreshments (all dietary requirements can be accommodated).
What to Bring
Camera or phone
Sunglasses
Warm layer
Sturdy shoes (if doing the cruise and nature walk)
Note: Book in advance, and if you have any dietary requirements, request these when you book.
Milford Track Day Walk to Clinton Hut (return)
Experience a taste of one of New Zealand’s most renowned Great Walks with a day walk on the Milford Track. This adventure allows you to sample some of this world-famous multi-day hike without committing to the full journey. Luxe Tours owners, Toby and Katelyn, often bring friends and family on this day hike, and it’s always a hit.
Your day begins with a drive to Te Anau Downs, with the option of pre-booked bus transport or self-driving. Once at Te Anau Downs, the Fiordland Outdoors water taxi takes you on a scenic boat ride across Lake Te Anau to Glade Wharf, the official start of the Milford Track. From there, you'll take a leisurely hike through ancient beech forests alongside the crystal-clear Clinton River to reach Clinton Hut, a 10-kilometre return hike that takes around 3.5 hours.
The walk is beautiful, especially on a sunny day, and the crystal clear Clinton River is particularly stunning, where the water is so clear you can see the fish swimming about beside you. The river is also great for swimming in the warmer spring and summer months.
Best Time
Late October to April (Great Walks season)
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking boots
Waterproof jacket (the weather can change quickly)
Packed lunch and plenty of water
Insect repellent
Camera or phone
Note: Book well in advance for the water taxi and optional bus transport, especially during peak times (December-February).
This day walk offers a perfect introduction to the Milford Track, allowing you to experience its natural wonders while returning to the comfort of Te Anau later in the day. But if your schedule allows, and you’d like to do the full, 4-day hike, check out our Milford Track Ultimate Guide.
Milford Road Merchant
Treat yourself to a visit to the Milford Road Merchant, a charming local boutique café. Located at 225 Milford Road Te Anau, This cosy spot is the perfect place to refuel and reminisce about your Fiordland experiences.
The owners of this local gem, Jen and Fjord, are always up for a chat and have created a warm, welcoming atmosphere to savor great, fair-trade organic coffee and wonderfully fresh baked goods. Don’t miss the opportunity to try one of their delicious pies and browse their locally crafted gift and souvenir items.
Opening Hours
Monday - Friday: 7am-4pm
Saturday: 7am-3pm
Sunday: Closed
Te Anau is more than just a stopover on the way to Milford Sound – it's a destination in its own right, brimming with natural wonders and exciting activities. From the ethereal glow of the iconic glowworm caves to the panoramic views from a helicopter flight, each experience offers a unique perspective on this stunning area. Whether you're an adventure seeker, nature lover, or simply looking to relax in a beautiful setting, Te Anau has something special for you.