TE ANAU
Te Anau is the vibrant gateway to the World Heritage wilderness of Fiordland. Nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau, it serves as the essential base for exploring the grandeur of Milford and Doubtful Sounds.
This small town is surrounded by dramatic peaks and ancient rainforests. It offers a unique blend of adventure tourism, stunning natural beauty, and access to New Zealand’s most famous Great Walks.
Most Popular Attractions
The Fiordland Wonders & Iconic Cruises
Milford Sound Cruise: A world-famous journey past sheer cliff faces, waterfalls, and wildlife like seals and dolphins in a spectacular fiord.
Doubtful Sound Cruise: A more remote and tranquil experience, often referred to as the ‘Sound of Silence,’ accessed via Lake Manapouri.
Mitre Peak: The iconic, towering mountain that dominates the Milford Sound landscape, a subject of countless photographs.
Stirling Falls: One of the two permanent waterfalls in Milford Sound, cascading 151 meters down the rock face.
Doubtful Sound Sea Kayaking: A chance to paddle through the remote fiord’s waters for a truly immersive, silent experience.
Underground Observatory (Milford Sound): A unique floating observatory allowing visitors to view the deep-water marine life in the fiord.
Te Anau Town Core & Lake Activities
Te Anau Glowworm Caves: A captivating underground network accessible by boat, culminating in a silent chamber illuminated by thousands of glowworms.
Lake Te Anau: The largest lake in the South Island, offering boat cruises, kayaking, and stunning mountain views.
Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre: The main hub for track information, weather forecasts, and conservation displays.
Wildlife Centre: A place to see native birds, including the rare, flightless Takahē, a local conservation success story.
Te Anau Bird Sanctuary: Located near the Department of Conservation office, it provides close-up views of native Fiordland birds.
Lakefront Walkway: A scenic path along the shore of Lake Te Anau, perfect for a gentle stroll or bike ride.
The Great Walks & Hiking Trails
Kepler Track: One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, a multi-day loop that starts and ends near Te Anau, featuring alpine ridges and lush forest.
Milford Track: Known as “the finest walk in the world,” this four-day hike starts with a ferry across Lake Te Anau.
Routeburn Track: Another Great Walk with a starting point accessible from Te Anau, offering dramatic mountain vistas.
Day Hike to Key Summit (Routeburn Track): A popular half-day walk offering panoramic views of the Fiordland peaks.
Mirror Lakes: A short, accessible boardwalk walk on the road to Milford Sound, famous for its perfect reflections of the Earl Mountains.
Homer Tunnel: The 1.2 km tunnel that marks the descent into Milford Sound, a major engineering feat through sheer granite.
Scenic Drives & Lesser-Known Gems
Milford Road (SH94): The breathtaking 120km drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound, considered one of the world’s most scenic routes.
Eglinton Valley: A broad, U-shaped valley along the Milford Road, famed for its tussock grasslands and mountain views.
Lupins on the Lakefront (Seasonal): In the summer, the lakefront is often framed by vibrant, colorful lupin flowers, a popular photography spot.
Manapouri: The small town on the shore of Lake Manapouri, the launch point for the Doubtful Sound excursions.
Activities & Experiences
Cruise on Milford Sound: Take a boat cruise on the iconic fiord, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, Mitre Peak, cascading waterfalls, and potential for spotting seals, dolphins, and penguins.
Hike the Kepler Track: Walk a section of this famous New Zealand Great Walk (either a half-day or full-day walk) starting from the outskirts of Te Anau, offering stunning views of the lake and mountains.
Visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves: Take a scenic boat ride across Lake Te Anau to a subterranean world to see thousands of tiny glowworms illuminating the limestone caves.
Explore the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre: Gain valuable information and insight into the area’s unique geology, history, flora, and fauna before heading out to explore.
Kayak or Paddleboard on Lake Te Anau: Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the shores of the lake, offering a peaceful way to enjoy the mountain backdrop.
Take a Scenic Flight over Fiordland: Experience the vastness of the national park, including the fiords, glaciers, and mountains, from a helicopter or fixed-wing plane.
Drive the Milford Road (State Highway 94): Spend a day driving this world-famous road, stopping at key points like the Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, and the Homer Tunnel.
Walk the Lake2Lake Cycle Trail: Rent a bike or simply walk the accessible trail that runs alongside the Waiau River and Lake Te Anau.
Jet Boat on the Waiau River: Take a thrilling jet boat ride down the Waiau River, which links Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri, famous as a filming location for The Lord of the Rings.
Hike to Key Summit (Routeburn Track): Drive the Milford Road and take the short but rewarding climb to Key Summit for a 360-degree alpine panorama.
Take a Day Trip to Doubtful Sound: Experience the ‘Sound of Silence’ on a cruise through the remote and vast Doubtful Sound, often accessed via a boat trip and bus from Manapouri.
Visit the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary: See rare and native New Zealand birds, including the flightless Takahe, in a protected setting right on the edge of the lake.
Local Tips & Transport
A Car is Essential (for Milford/Doubtful): While Te Anau town is walkable, a private or rental car offers the most flexibility to explore the Milford Road’s numerous scenic spots at your own pace.
The Milford Road is a Journey, Not a Destination: Allow at least 2.5 hours non-stop to drive to Milford Sound, but factor in an extra 1-3 hours for photography stops and short walks like Mirror Lakes or the Chasm. The road is closed by heavy snow/ice in winter (carry chains) or flooding/avalanches sometimes.
Fuel Up in Te Anau: Te Anau is the last place to reliably get fuel before Milford Sound. It is crucial to fill your tank before heading out.
Tour Buses are an Alternative: If you prefer to avoid driving the challenging Milford Road, numerous companies offer comfortable bus transport from Te Anau that often includes the cruise.
Parking in Milford Sound: There is significant paid parking available at the Milford Sound cruise terminal. Pre-booking the cruise and checking parking availability is always recommended, especially during peak season.
Be Prepared for Sandflies: Te Anau and the entire Fiordland area are notorious for sandflies, particularly near the water. Bring strong insect repellent (the local RID or a high-DEET option) and wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk.
The Weather is Unpredictable: Fiordland is one of the wettest places on earth. Be prepared for rain regardless of the forecast. The fiords are arguably even more spectacular when it’s raining, as the waterfalls multiply and roar down the cliffs.
Pre-Book Key Activities: Cruises to Milford and Doubtful Sound, especially during the summer high season (Dec-Feb), should be booked well in advance, as capacity is limited.
Respect the DOC (Department of Conservation) Guidelines: You are in a National Park. Stick to marked trails, carry out all rubbish, and do not feed the wildlife. Fires are generally prohibited.
Cell Service is Limited: You will lose mobile phone coverage soon after leaving Te Anau on the Milford Road. Cell service is non-existent in Milford Sound itself, so inform people of your plans and expected return time.
Dining: The town is small, and while it offers good dining options, reservations for dinner are recommended during peak season. Lunch is typically more casual.
Hidden Gems:
- The Chasm: A powerful river gorge walk (short and easily accessible on the Milford Road) where you can witness the force of the Cleddau River carving through the rock.
- Lake Manapouri: The second deepest lake in New Zealand, often overlooked in favor of Te Anau. It’s the gateway for the Doubtful Sound trips and a beautiful, peaceful spot in its own right.
- Grave-Tending Track: A lesser-known short walk on the Milford Road near Lake Gunn, offering a quiet, mossy forest experience that feels straight out of Middle-earth.
Top Restaurants
Redcliff Restaurant & Bar [$35-$60] – A long-time local favorite set in a charming historic cottage, known for its elegant presentation of local ingredients like wild Fiordland venison and Stewart Island salmon.
The Fat Duck Gastropub [$30-$55] – A popular and lively gastropub offering modern New Zealand cuisine with a focus on high-quality local produce, including standout venison and lamb dishes.
MacKinnon Room [$45-$75] – Located within the Distinction hotel, this spot offers a more sophisticated, leisurely dining experience with fantastic views of Lake Te Anau and a contemporary à la carte menu of South Island delicacies.
The Moose Bar and Armadillos Restaurant [$25-$50] – A classic, family-owned Kiwi pub and restaurant right on the lake’s shore, known for serving up good, honest pub grub and is a reliable spot to meet locals after work.
Fiordland Lodge Restaurant [$100-$150] – An exquisite, seasonal three-course “Trust the Chef” fine dining menu, open to non-residents (with prior reservation) and offering unparalleled views of Lake Te Anau into the Fiordland National Park.
The Ranch Bar & Grill [$25-$45] – A family-owned, central Te Anau establishment that has been operating for over 25 years, offering hearty, honest casual dining with a focus on steaks, burgers, and a great Sunday roast.
Bailiez Cafe & Bar [$20-$40] – Part of the Distinction Luxmore Hotel, this is an easy-going spot offering a diverse menu from hearty breakfasts to relaxed evening meals in a spacious, welcoming atmosphere.
Olive Tree Cafe [$20-$40] – A charming spot on the main street known for good-value, comforting food, including a variety of breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches, and some Asian-inspired dishes.
The Black Dog Bar / Fiordland Cinema [$15-$35] – A cool hangout spot for locals and visitors, perfect for a casual drink and light meal, offering a selection of New Zealand Pinot Noir and craft beer in a relaxed setting.
Ristorante Pizzeria Paradiso Da Toni [$20-$40] – Highly recommended by locals for what many consider the best wood-fired pizza in town, offering classic Italian options alongside unique local creations like venison pizza.
Ditto [$15-$30] – A small, creative, and funky spot specializing in Asian-inspired street food and ‘south-meets-east’ fusion fare, known for its flavour-packed bao buns, dumplings, and sushi bowls.
Radha’s Indian Restaurant [$20-$35] – Highly-rated for its authentic Indian cuisine, offering a wide range of flavorful curries and dishes cooked in a traditional Tandoori oven, with options for both dine-in and takeaway.
Thai Anau Restaurant & Take Away [$20-$35] – Offers generous portions and good-value, authentic Thai food, with a spacious dining area or a reliable takeaway option for a comforting evening meal.
La Toscana Pizzeria – Spaghetteria [$20-$40] – Te Anau’s original Italian restaurant, serving locals and travelers since 1990 with traditional Italian pasta and a growing selection of New Zealand craft beers.
Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant [$20-$40] – The only Chinese restaurant in the area, offering a range of classic, authentic Chinese dishes, which is a surprisingly popular choice among locals.
Naturally Fiordland Pizzeria [$15-$30] – A cozy, unpretentious eatery offering good value and generous serving sizes, including pizza and other comforting casual food options.
The Alpine Centre Cafe & Bar [$15-$30] – Located just on the outskirts of Te Anau, this spot is known for offering some of the best-value fish and chips in town, alongside a large selection of “Grab n Go” food.
Sandfly Cafe Te Anau [$15-$30] – Often referred to as the “beating heart of Te Anau,” this popular spot is the local’s go-to for great coffee, hearty breakfasts, and a wide array of cabinet food and freshly baked pastries.
Miles Better Pies [$8-$15] – An iconic local favorite that is a must-visit for New Zealand comfort food, offering over 16 varieties of handmade pies, from classic mince and cheese to gourmet venison.
Wapiti Bakery & Cafe Restaurant [$15-$25] – A classic bakery and café offering a range of fresh-baked goods, savory items, and a reliable spot for a casual breakfast or lunch before a day of exploring.
The Cleddau Cafe [$15-$25] – A good option for a casual coffee, breakfast, or light lunch, known for its friendly service and standard café fare.
Cafe 88 [$15-$25] – A centrally located cafe offering a selection of cabinet food, light meals, and good coffee, popular for a quick and easy stop.
The Kepler Restaurant & Bar [$20-$40] – Offers hearty meals and is a reliable choice for both lunch and dinner, often catering to hikers and visitors with generous portions.
Fiordland Food Cart [$10-$20] – A well-regarded food truck (location can vary, often near the supermarket) offering fast, fresh, and delicious takeaway options for a quick and affordable meal.
Sprig & Thistle [$10-$20] – A relatively new spot operating out of a vintage caravan, specializing in coffee, smoothies, and freshly made savories and sweets, highly recommended for a quick stop on the highway.
Bao Now [$10-$20] – Starting as a popular food trailer (now also part of Ditto), this is a reliable and quick source for flavorful Asian-inspired dishes, especially the namesake bao buns.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Black Dog Bar: Found at 5 The Lane, next to the Fiordland Cinema, this spot is a local favorite, offering a classy yet casual haven. They pride themselves on a hand-picked selection of New Zealand wines, a good line-up of whiskies, and offer the option to take your drinks into the boutique cinema.
The Fat Duck Gastropub: Located centrally on the Town Centre, this gastropub is a vibrant place for casual drinks and meals. They offer a great selection of New Zealand beers on tap and a wide range of wines, with a daily happy hour from 5.00 pm to 6.00 pm.
The Ranch Bar & Grill: Situated in the heart of Te Anau township, this popular spot offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a classic New Zealand pub environment, perfect for catching sports games or relaxing over a cold brew with friends.
The Redcliff Cafe: While primarily known as a top-end restaurant on Mokonui Street, its bar is a favorite for locals and visitors, boasting an impressive local wine list and a cozy open fire—ideal for a pre- or post-dinner drink. They sometimes feature live music.
La Toscana Pizzeria: A well-loved Italian restaurant and bar in the Te Anau township, offering a casual atmosphere. The bar is a nice spot for a relaxed glass of wine or beer to accompany their famous pizzas.
The Moose Bar & Restaurant: Located centrally, this venue has a vibrant bar area that serves a good selection of New Zealand craft beers and local wines. It’s a reliable spot for a casual evening out.
Bailie Scott’s (Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas): An upscale bar within a main hotel, typically offering a more sophisticated environment and a good selection of classic cocktails and premium spirits on the Lakefront Drive.
Wapiti Cafe & Bakery: While a cafe during the day, this central location sometimes extends its hours or has a relaxed bar service, offering a casual setting for a late-afternoon or early-evening drink.
Te Anau Club: A classic community social club on Pop Andrew Drive, everyone is welcome, member or not. It’s an excellent place to mingle with locals, offering a bar with a wide selection of drinks (including the biggest collection of Wapiti heads in New Zealand!), and free activities like pool, darts, and snooker.
The Ranch Bar & Grill – The Top Bar (Club): The Ranch’s dedicated ‘Top Bar’ is an excellent space for a livelier night out. It often hosts live entertainment or DJ tunes on weekends from 7 pm ’til late and features a private pool table and a spacious dance floor, making it the closest thing to a traditional nightclub in town.