Te AnauGateway to Fiordland
Discover Te Anau, a charming town situated on the shores of the largest lake in the South Island. Your perfect base to explore Milford Sound and the wonders of Fiordland National Park.
The gateway to Fiordland
Te Anau is a picturesque small town situated on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in New Zealand's South Island. Dubbed the "gateway to Fiordland," this charming destination is the ideal starting point to explore the region's spectacular fjords, notably Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.
With its breathtaking landscapes, varied activities, and relaxed atmosphere, Te Anau offers the perfect balance between adventure and tranquility. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking relaxation, this destination will captivate you.
The town also offers excellent accommodations, restaurants, and tourist services, making it a perfect base for your exploration of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Things to do in Te Anau
Te Anau offers a multitude of activities for all tastes, from spectacular excursions to relaxing moments by the lake.
Te Anau Caves
Discover the luminous Te Anau caves and their magical glowworms. A unique underground boat experience.
View and book
Lake Te Anau
Stroll along the shores, boat cruises, kayaking or simply relax with breathtaking mountain views.
Conservation Centre
Observe the takahē, New Zealand's endemic bird, and discover local wildlife conservation efforts.
Milford Sound Excursions
Full-day excursions to Milford Sound including transport and cruise.
Doubtful Sound Excursions
Discover Doubtful Sound with a cruise departing from Te Anau including bus and boat transport.
Scenic Flights
Helicopter or airplane flights over Te Anau, Milford Sound and the Fiordland mountains.
Where to stay in Te Anau
Te Anau offers a wide range of accommodations for all budgets, from economical camping spots to luxury lodges with lake views.
Camping & Motorhome Parks
Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park
Family-friendly lakeside camping with tent sites, motorhome spots and cabins. Shared kitchen, playground and stunning views.
• Facilities • Kitchen • WiFi • Lake view
Te Anau TOP 10 Holiday Park
Well-equipped park in town center, close to all services. Spacious sites, motorhome area with electricity.
• Kitchen • Electricity • Facilities
Tasman Holiday Parks Te Anau
Peaceful camping with tent and motorhome sites. Modern facilities, playground and close to lake.
• Premium service • Playground • Lake proximity
Hostels & Motels
Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers
Friendly youth hostel with dorms and private rooms. Spacious shared kitchen, lounge with fireplace and garden.
• 4-8 bed dorms • Private rooms • Kitchen • WiFi
Te Anau Central Backpackers
Small cozy hostel near the lake. Relaxed atmosphere, local staff with good regional knowledge.
• Near lake • Local advice • Breakfast
Anchorage Motel
Modern motel with studios and equipped apartments. Private parking, close to town center and tour departures.
• Equipped studio • Parking • Central • Kitchenette
Amber Court Motel
Motel-hotel with comfortable rooms and family apartments. Close to lake and town center.
• Families • Standard and deluxe • 4-person apartment
Hotels & Luxury Lodges
Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
4-star hotel with panoramic lake views. Elegant rooms, gourmet restaurant and spa. Concierge service for excursions.
• Lake view • Restaurant • Spa • Concierge • 4 stars
Fiordland Lodge
Exclusive lakeside lodge in pristine natural setting. Rooms with private terrace, local gourmet restaurant.
• Luxury • Private terrace • Nature • Gourmet
Te Anau Lodge
Historic renovated lodge in the heart of Te Anau. Old-world charm with modern comfort, landscaped garden and immediate lake proximity.
• Historic • Central • Garden • Authentic charm
Lakefront Lodge
Boutique lodge directly on the shores of Lake Te Anau. Spacious suites with spa bath and panoramic views.
• Lakefront • Suites • Panoramic view
💡Booking Tips for Te Anau
High season (Dec-Mar)
Essential to book 2-3 months in advance. Higher rates but milder weather. Ask for a lake view room.
Low season (Jun-Aug)
Booking 1 month in advance is sufficient. Advantageous rates but cooler weather. Check heating and reduced hours.
Location
City center for services, lakefront for views, outskirts for peace. Everything remains walkable in Te Anau.
Included services
Check: WiFi, parking, breakfast, excursion shuttles, kitchen (camping/hostels), spa (hotels).
Practical Information
How to get there
By car from Queenstown (2h30) or Invercargill (2h). Direct flights from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch to Queenstown then drive.
Restaurants
Local and international cuisine. Specialties: New Zealand lamb, fresh seafood, local wines. Cafes with lake views.
Services
Tourist information center, supermarkets, pharmacy, banks, car rentals, outdoor equipment and souvenirs.
Plan your stay in Te Anau
Te Anau is the perfect destination for your Fiordland exploration. Discover its unique attractions and prepare your adventure to the world's most spectacular fjords.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Complete your preparation with our other essential guides on Milford Sound
Milford Sound Cruise
Explore the wonders of Milford Sound with our complete cruise guide: options, tips and best experiences to discover the fjords.
Where to stay at Milford Sound
Complete accommodation guide: Milford Sound Lodge, camping, overnight cruises and alternatives in Te Anau and Queenstown.
Milford Sound from Queenstown
How to organize your Milford Sound visit from Queenstown: transport, excursions, practical tips for an unforgettable day in Fiordland.