Te Anau
It is the gateway to Fiordland National Park and a perfect base to visit Piopiotahi-Milford Sound. The Milford Road originates here, and this is arguably one of the most scenic stretches of highway in the country. Te Anau sits on the shores of spectacular Lake Te Anau, which reaches depths of 417 meters. Te Anau Township is the starting point for many walking tracks, including two of New Zealand's Great Walks, the Milford track and the Kepler track. Apart from hiking, you could go kayaking, lake cruising, fishing, or exploring Te Anau Glowworm Caves. You could go for a bike ride alongside the lake towards Lake Manapouri, on a popular Lake to Lake biking route. Along the way, you will pass a bird sanctuary specialising in Takahe, and other native birds.
Te Anau Glowworm Caves with RealNZ
Begin your Te Anau Glowworm experience with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau on board the luxury catamaran, Luminosa, to the western side of the lake. On arrival, you'll enter the caves through Cavern House, where informative displays detail the history of this 12,000 year old underground network. You'll then explore by limestone pathway while your guide points out hidden whirlpools, sculpted rock formations, and a rushing underground waterfall. See a magical display of thousands of glowworms as you glide through the darkness in a small boat.
Ata Whenua - Shadowland Film at Fiordland Cinema
Ata Whenua refers to the southwestern coast of New Zealand and translates to English as "Shadow Land". This breathtaking short film will take you on an unforgettable journey through one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on earth, Fiordland National Park. Shot by award-winning cinematographers with outstanding musical composition, this is the next best thing to a scenic flight over this spectacular wilderness.
Pure Wilderness Jet Boat with Fiordland Jet
Jet boat down the Waiau river, across Lake Manapouri, to the ancient forest of the Fiordland National Park. Enjoy the thrill of jet boating down the majestic trout-filled Waiau River, to the serene Lake Manapouri. Step foot into the Fiordland National Park and go for a short walk while learning about the ancient beech forest and ferns. Your jet boat ride includes a number of stops at the exact locations of the filming the "Fellowship of the Ring" on the Waiau or "Anduin River". The driver will tell you the inside story of the filming the Lord of the Rings on this river. The trip will also include some thrilling 360 degree turns and spins as well as interesting interpretation about the flora and fauna and the local European and Māori history.
Milford Sound Kayaking Day Safari with Roscos Milford Kayaks
You’ll be collected from your accommodation this morning for your drive along the magnificent Milford Road, rated one of the best road trips in the world. You’ll pass through rainforests surrounded by towering mountain scenery and your guide will show you all the special spots along the way. On arriving into Milford Sound’s Deepwater Basin you’ll gear up for your kayaking adventure. You’ll kayak around Milford Sound for 3 - 3.5 hours, taking in all the highlights including the Pembroke Glacier, mile high Mitre Peak and towering sea cliffs and waterfalls. You’ll enjoy lunch on the sound before continuing on your kayak adventure past the many waterfalls and wonderful wildlife.
It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.
Routeburn Track Guided Day Walk - Lunch Included
Enjoy a guided day excursion from Te Anau to Key Summit on the renowned Routeburn Track. Begin the journey with a spectacular scenic drive along the Milford Road to the Divide Shelter which is the starting point for the guided walk to Key Summit. There are opportunities for short nature walks and photo stops along the way. Departing from the shelter, the walk ascends through lush, temperate rainforest on a well maintained track. The steady climb takes approximately 2 hours at a leisurely pace. A maximum of 12 walkers with a Trips and Tramps guide provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the natural and human heritage of Fiordland. Gaining an elevation of 400 metres, you'll emerge from the forest into the alpine environment, with panoramic views of high snowy peaks, alpine lakes, and deep bush clad valleys. On a fine day you'll enjoy lunch on the summit amidst the alpine tarns, and in unfavourable conditions in the shelter of a nearby tramping hut. After lunch steps are retraced to the Divide Shelter before returning to Te Anau by coach. Hot drinks and energy snacks are included and will be carried by the guide. A reasonable level of fitness is required to enjoy this walk.
Doubtful Sound Sea Plane Flight
Running short of time? This is the perfect way to experience Doubtful Sound. Fly over Lake Manapouri and the South Fiord of Lake Te Anau to the remote wilderness of Doubtful Sound. See stunning waterfalls and unspoilt scenery which will leave you in awe of this dramatic region.
This flight takes you to a remote area of the South Islands' rugged West Coast. Sometimes called the Sound of Silence, there is a cloistered serenity within Doubtful Sound that is a contrast with its near neighbour, Milford Sound. At 421 metres deep Doubtful is the deepest of the fiords and is long and winding with three distinct arms. The distance from Deep Cove to the open sea is around 40.4 kilometres. It is also home to New Zealand's highest waterfall - the Browne Falls at 836m (2,742 ft).
Dusky Sound and Doubtful Sound Sea Plane Flight with Wings & Water Te Anau
Fiordland is described in Māori Legend as Ata Whenua - The Shadowland. Soar above and absorb the sheer size and landscape of this ancient land to see why. Combine the famous Doubtful Sound with the untouched beauty of Dusky Sound, you can expect an exhilarating flight of endless peaks, glacial calved landscape, waterfalls, and over 350 islands scattered throughout the coastal region.
Half Day E-Bike Ride with Fiordland Jet
Explore the beautiful Te Anau region at your own pace with a bike rental. Choose from high-quality standard or e-bikes, available for two hours, a half-day, or a full day. It's the perfect way to explore the town or venture out onto the scenic Lake2Lake Cycle Trail, which takes you alongside the stunning Waiau River, famously featured in The Lord of the Rings. All rentals include a helmet, map, and a safety briefing, with infant seats also available.
Half Day Fly Fishing Upper Waiau River with FishJet NZ
The Waiau River is truly one-of-a-kind. Teeming with Brown and Rainbow Trout and bordering Fiordland National Park, the Waiau combines low fishing pressure with extraordinary Mayfly hatches for a fly fishing experience that’s truly world class yet often underrated. A larger waterway; highly experienced guides break the Waiau down and fish it like a small river. Dotted with islands, beaches and eddies that are impossible to reach on foot, custom-built boats are used to navigate to the river’s best fishing spots, sometimes fishing from the boat drift-style. Don’t be put off by the use of the jet boat – trout on the Waiau are forgiving and settle fast once the boat has moved through. This is a great fit for anglers looking for an outstanding fly fishing adventure. It’s also a perfect river for those just getting to know fly fishing – the guides are friendly and patient.
Kepler Track Guided Walk
Enjoy a guided walk from Te Anau alongside the Waiau River, Lake Te Anau or Manapouri on the Kepler Track.
The track has a gentle gradient, is well maintained and suitable for all abilities. During the walk the Trips & Tramps guide details native fauna and flora, explains the unique beech forest ecological cycle and shares conservation efforts made on the Kepler Track and around Fiordland. Enjoy a classic kiwi cuppa at a scenic location and share a yarn with your local guide.