Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Te Anau, in the Southland region, this small town of the same name enchants with its exceptional setting, nestled between water, forest, and alpine peaks. Located on the edge of Fiordland National Park, Te Anau is often seen as merely a stopping point on the way to the legendary Milford Sound. Yet it deserves a visit in its own right for its serene landscapes, relaxed atmosphere, and the wealth of outdoor activities on offer.

What is Te Anau's climate like?

Te Anau experiences a temperate but changeable climate, with frequent alternation between sunshine and rain, sometimes within the same day. It is therefore advisable to come well equipped. Each season offers a different ambiance: summer (December to February) is a good time for outdoor activities, with pleasant temperatures and long days. Autumn and spring appeal with their colours and mild weather. Winter, meanwhile, cooler and more serene, reveals snow-capped landscapes conducive to contemplation. Rainfall is regular throughout the year, nourishing the lush forests and emblematic waterfalls of the region.

The history of Te Anau in South Island

Te Anau takes its name from the Maori word "Te Ana-au", which means "cave of swirling waters", a direct reference to the Anau Glowworm Caves located not far from the town. Long before the arrival of Europeans, Maori people traversed this region to harvest pounamu (jade) and other natural resources, leaving a lasting mark on the territory.

The first European explorers to discover Lake Te Anau were C. J. Nairn and W. J. Stephen, guided by Maori in 1852. The lake was officially mapped in 1863, and the layout of the village of Te Anau was established in 1893, shortly after the opening of the Milford Track hiking trail. However, the town experienced real growth only in 1953, with the opening of the Homer Tunnel and the alpine road leading to Milford Sound, thereby facilitating access to one of New Zealand's most spectacular areas.

Since then, Te Anau has established itself as an essential Fiordland destination, while retaining the simple and welcoming charm of a small town devoted to nature and wide open spaces.

What to see in Te Anau?

Te Anau first appeals with the peaceful grandeur of its lake, the largest freshwater lake on the South Island and the second largest in New Zealand after Lake Taupo. Stretching nearly 65 km long, bordered by forested hills and imposing mountains, the lake's clear waters are ideal for water activities. At sunset, the golden light reflects on the lake and transforms the atmosphere into an almost surreal scene.

On the far side of the lake lie the famous Anau Glowworm Caves, accessible only by cruise. These limestone caves, shaped by an underground river, are home to a multitude of glowworms that line the ceilings with blue light, evoking a starry sky. Less crowded than the Waitomo caves, they offer intimate guided tours in small groups, in a silent and almost magical atmosphere. The round trip takes just over two hours, with several departures daily.

Along the lake's edge, you can also visit the Anau Bird Sanctuary, a refuge for several species of birds endemic to New Zealand, such as:

• The takahe
• The kākā
• The tui
• The ruru (or morepork)
• The whio (blue duck)

This peaceful sanctuary allows you to discover local wildlife and support conservation efforts in the region.

For those curious about history, Fiordland's Ancient Machinery Museum complements a visit to the town nicely. It traces local history through a remarkable collection of agricultural machinery, vintage motorcycles, restored utility vehicles, and even Te Anau's first school building. There's also a blacksmith shop and around 60 tractors still in working order.

A land of hiking and adventure

For hiking enthusiasts, Te Anau offers a nice variety of accessible trails, allowing you to explore the region without committing to several days:

• Key Summit
• Gertrude Saddle
• Monument Track
• Stockyard Cove Track
• Pearl Harbour via Circle Track
• Lake Mistletoe Track
• Te Anau lakefront track

What to do in the town of Te Anau and around?

Te Anau appeals with its peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, far from urban hustle and bustle. Its quiet streets, lined with cafés, small shops, and gardens, offer a setting conducive to leisurely wandering, especially at sunset, when the star-filled sky (free from light pollution) reveals all its splendour.

Beyond hiking through the Great Walks, the town offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Tourists can:

• Kayak or stand-up paddle on the lake
• Enjoy cruises to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound
• Explore the glowworm caves

The Lake2Lake trail, a 28.5 km cycling route connecting Te Anau to Lake Manapouri along the Waiau River, allows you to discover the region by bike. Lakeside walks also offer superb viewpoints.

For the adventurous, the region also offers jet boat outings, fishing or hunting activities, as well as helicopter or seaplane flights, perfect for admiring the region's fjords from the air.

Te Anau is easily accessible from the major cities of the South Island thanks to a well-developed and particularly picturesque road network. From Queenstown, count around 2 hours of driving through mountain and verdant valley landscapes. The journey from Invercargill takes a similar time via State Highway 94, which also connects Te Anau to Milford Sound, located 120 km to the north.

The town is a mandatory starting point for those taking the Milford Road, one of the country's most spectacular roads. Te Anau is also crossed by the Southern Scenic Route, a tourist itinerary that connects it to Queenstown, Manapouri, Gore, and other surrounding localities.

Several private bus companies provide regular connections between Te Anau, Queenstown, Invercargill, and the starting points of Fiordland National Park hikes. Attendance is higher in summer, particularly for day trips.

Moreover, Te Anau does not have an active commercial airport, but a small airfield is located 15 km to the south, on State Highway 95. An expansion project was considered in 2016 to accommodate flights from Christchurch. However, for now, the most convenient airport remains Queenstown's.

FAQ

What are the best hikes in Fiordland National Park?

Te Anau is the ideal starting point for discovering the spectacular landscapes of Fiordland National Park, particularly through several emblematic Great Walks:

• The Kepler Track, which forms a 4-day loop starting directly from town, allows for a quick immersion in an alpine setting.
• The Milford Track, accessible only by reservation, is one of the country's most renowned trails, crossing glacial valleys, steep passes, and primary forests.
• The Routeburn Track connects Fiordland to the Queenstown region while offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Where to eat in Te Anau?

In Te Anau, local cuisine appeals with its diversity and the quality of its local products, such as trout, lamb, and game. Restaurants with lake views, microbreweries, convivial cafés, and dinner cruises allow you to savour New Zealand cuisine in a relaxed setting. Some experiences sometimes combine meals and an overnight stay aboard a boat, offering a unique moment in the heart of nature.

Where to stay?

Te Anau offers a wide choice of accommodations for all profiles and budgets, ranging from motels with lake views to campervans sites, passing through youth hostels and cosy cottages. Hikers can book nights in huts along the Great Walks via the DOC (Department of Conservation) website. Prices vary depending on the season, and it is recommended to book in advance, especially for high-altitude stages.

What is the name of the fjord located in the south of New Zealand?

The most famous fjord in the south of New Zealand is Milford Sound, located in Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Renowned for its spectacular cliffs, waterfalls, and marine life, it is one of the country's most emblematic natural sites.