Te Anau
Te Anau is a tourist base for the exploration of World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park. It rests on the shores of Lake Te Anau which is second only in size to Lake Taupo in the North Island. Te Anau is 2.5 hours drive from Queenstown and 2.2 hours drive from Invercargill in the South Island. There are a variety of well known tramps which leave from the township including Milford, Hollyfield and Kepler. Tramps range in distances from day walks to overnight treks.
Milford Sound is 120km north of Te Anau. Coach tours travel regularly between Te Anau, Queenstown and Fiordland National Park. The scenery in Fiordland National Park is breathtaking and home to many species of birds. The cheeky kea, rare takahe, tui, bellbird and kaka are just some of the native wildlife that frequent the area. Boat cruises depart regularly to explore both Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. There are a variety of options on offer from day tours to overnight cruises. The cruises take you past magnificent forest clad mountains that emerge from deep still waters and stunning waterfalls. Fiordland has the highest rainfall in New Zealand which produces a truly beautiful landscape. Full commentaries complement the tours and they are an informative and comfortable way to explore this ancient part of the world.
Other activities departing from Te Anau are scenic flights, kayaking tours, diving, horse riding and cycling. Paintball is available not far from the Te Anau Township. Fishing is a popular activity and the lakes of Manapouri and Te Anau produce good catches of brown and rainbow trout from 1 -3kg in size. You can fly fish the rivers and streams through guided tours. Lake Henry is specially stocked, making it ideal for families. The Te Anau Glowworm caves are a major attraction starting with a cruise across Lake Te Anau and drifting through glowworm covered limestone caves. The tours depart Te Anau daily. Another attraction not to miss is the Discovery Centre which provides an insight into the history, geology and wildlife of Milford Sound. A highlight is the 10m descent underwater to view the rare black coral. Accommodation, shopping and dining options are surprisingly vast for a small town. Lodges, hotels, motels and home stay accommodation are the most prevalent, with holiday parks and backpacker accommodation satisfying the more budget conscious traveler. Shopping options include outdoor clothing stores, fashion outlets and souvenir shops. Te Anau’s local delicacy is crayfish and venison which goes well with a fine New Zealand wine.