Te Anau, Fiordland, is an incredibly stunning and picturesque town situated on the shores of Lake Te Anau, which is the largest lake on the South Island of New Zealand.
It is a perfect destination for those who are looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the vast wilderness of Fiordland and Milford Sound, which is widely known for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife. It’s worth noting that Te Anau is the starting point for the famous Milford Track, one of the most popular hiking trails in the world.
During our trip to Otago, we planned to explore the beautiful Milford Sound within the Fiordland National Park. This park is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site called Te Wahipounamu. Many people suggested that we visit the place. We stayed in Te Anau, the closest town, as it makes the trip convenient and helps you avoid traffic.
The Town
Te Anau is a scenic town named after the Māori phrase meaning ‘The Place of the Swirling Waters.’
It is a small town that offers a wide range of accommodation options, including lodges, hotels, and campgrounds. The town is known for its cuisine, which includes local dishes like venison, lobster, and seafood. Visitors can enjoy the abundance of restaurants that serve these dishes.
Some History
Te Anau Lake was explored by two Europeans, C.J. Nairn and W.J. Stephen, in 1852, guided by Māori. The lake was surveyed in 1863, and the township was surveyed 30 years later.
The opening of the Milford Track accelerated the town’s development. The road opened in 1953. Since then, the Homer Tunnel and the road route to Milford have provided access to the area’s beauty.
The Homer Tunnel, which took nearly 20 years to complete, is an engineering marvel measuring 1,270 meters long. It cuts through the Darran Mountains, providing a vital link between Milford Sound and the eastern side of the Southern Alps. The road route offers breathtaking views of the mountains, lakes, and the Milford Sound, making it a favorite among tourists from all over the world.
Today, Milford Sound is a thriving tourist destination, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. With its stunning natural beauty and rich history, Milford Sound is a place that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
What to do in Te Anau?
Over the past two years of living in New Zealand, I’ve been lucky enough to travel quite a bit. One thing I’ve learned is that finding the best things to do in a new place can be a challenge. That’s why I always recommend spending a few nights in each place you visit. That way you can really explore all the local area has to offer.
Te Anau is the perfect base for day trips into Fiordland. There are so many fun attractions, incredible walks, adventure activities, and food options. Just make sure to fill your day with activities you’ll enjoy to create truly memorable experiences.
No matter who you’re traveling with – family, friends, a partner, or solo – you’ll find something to love in Te Anau.
Lake Henry
Lake Henry is a hidden gem, a small spring-fed lake that’s stocked with rainbow and brown trout. It provides the perfect opportunity for children to try their hand at fishing.
Nestled in Ivon Wilson Park, southeast of the main township, trees surround this tranquil lake and provide a perfect retreat to unwind and reconnect with nature.
You can take a leisurely stroll along the 1.4 km (0.9 miles) loop trail around the lake, which is mostly flat and takes about 21 minutes to complete.
Whether you prefer a brisk walk or a peaceful hike, you’ll find yourself immersed in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
The best part is that you are unlikely to run into many other people while exploring, which means you can enjoy the serenity and peacefulness of Lake Henry all to yourself.
Lion’s Lookout
If you’re a fan of breathtaking sunsets, you must check out the Lion Lookout on Rampart Road. The views of Te Anau and its lake from there are simply stunning. The lookout also has a small parking area where you can park your car and stay until the sun goes down. It’s a peaceful spot that’s not too crowded, so you can really soak up the beauty of the place.
One thing to keep in mind, though – New Zealand weather can be a bit unpredictable at times. So, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead before making your way to the lookout. If you notice any low-hanging clouds or fog, it’s better to postpone your visit to the Lion Lookout because the visibility will be poor.
Punanga Manu o Te Anau/Te Anau Bird Sanctuary
If you’re interested in observing some of Fiordland’s unique birds that are hard to spot in the wild, you should visit the Sanctuary. This place is home to several native bird species, including the rare takahe, kea, and kaka. You’ll have a chance to get up close to these birds and learn about their habits and habitat requirements.
The Sanctuary is located on the shores of Lake Te Anau, making it perfect for family outings. You can take a leisurely walk around the Sanctuary’s extensive network of trails or picnic on the lake’s shores.
It’s easily accessible for visitors, just a 20-minute walk or a 2-minute drive from the Te Rua-o-te-Moko/Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.
Here are some important details you need to know:
- The Sanctuary is open to the public from dawn until dusk.
- Sanctuary public tours run daily at 10:30 am and last for around 45 minutes.
- Entry is free for self-guided visitors. However, donations are necessary for the continued operation of the Sanctuary. You can contribute through donation boxes on-site or donate in cash or via bank at the Te Rua-o-te-Moko/Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.
- The Sanctuary has public restrooms, picnic tables, and a spring water tap.
Glowworm Caves
Have you ever wanted to explore a mysterious underground world and witness the beauty of glow worms in pitch-black darkness?
It is an amazing experience, but it is not free of charge. You will need to book a cruise to enjoy it. However, believe me, it is worth it! During the cruise, you will learn about fascinating things such as rock formations, cave networks, and Maori legends.
The underground world is incredibly beautiful. The caves are 12,000 years old and still shaped by the river flowing through them. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen – an intricate network of limestone passages filled with sculpted rocks, whirlpools, and a roaring underground waterfall.
This is a unique and unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss out on.
Milford Sound
Milford is a place with diverse natural beauty, consisting of thundering waterfalls, sky-high mountains, and lush rainforests.
It is a remote and wild location that gives the feeling of stepping back in time. Among all the forests, Milford Sound is the most impressive, with steep mountains and the iconic Mitre Peak towering over them. Its exceptional beauty is truly remarkable.
Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.
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Jack Kerouac
Is It Worth Going To Te Anau?
Te Anau is a charming little town that serves as the gateway to Fiordland. This region is full of breathtaking landscapes that are sure to leave you in awe.
This area is famous for its majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic hiking trails that glimpse New Zealand’s natural wonders.
One of the most popular attractions in the region is Fiordland National Park, which covers over 1.2 million hectares of pristine wilderness. This park is home to several fjords, including Milford Sound / Piopiotahi and Doubtful Sound / Patea, considered some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world.
Overall, Te Anau is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand and offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most stunning landscapes in the world while engaging in a range of exciting outdoor activities.
The End👋