Top Things to do in Te Anau
What to do and see in Te Anau, South Island: The Best Day Trips from
A gateway to Fjordland National Park, the quaint and peaceful township of Te Anau is nestled on the edge of a lake of the same name—the perfect site for jetboating or fishing. Embark on one of many day-long or multi-day hiking or walking tracks, then return to town to restore your body with a soak or massage at a spa and a delicious café meal. Nature lovers will marvel at the Te Anau glowworm caves, the Wildlife Park and Ivon Wilson Park, where rare Takahe birds flutter freely.
Restaurants in Te Anau
1. Milford Sound Cruise and Helicopter Flight including Scenic Landings from Queenstown
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 15 reviews
Marvel at the natural wonders of Milford Sound on this full day Heli Tour from Queenstown with a boat cruise on Milford Sound! This multi-stop Milford Sound, Glaciers and Waterfalls heli tour is an unforgettable way to experience the must-see highlights including a boat cruise on Milford Sound. Get whisked away by helicopter, soar over the Fiordland National Park on a thrilling helicopter flight to Milford Sound, get up close to seals and dolphins on a Milford Sound nature boat cruise. Followed by a snow landing on the peak of Mt Tutoko and then experience an unforgettable picnic and stunning photo opportunity below the waterfalls and hanging glaciers of the Earnslaw Burn Middle Earth waterfalls, one of the most magical locations featured in 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' before flying back to Queenstown over the Richardson Mountain range.
Inclusions: Round-trip helicopter flight from Queenstown with 3 landings, Scenic Milford Sound Boat Cruise, Hotel pickup and drop-off (central Queenstown), Picnic Lunch with wine, beer or juice, Local taxes
Exclusions: Gratuities
Reviewed By christopher_g_morris
Fantastic experience the 6 of us had, was a seamless day that we thoroughly enjoyed. Would do it again in a heart beat.
2. Envy Experiences Exclusive Milford Day trip from Te Anau
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 22 reviews
BRAND NEW PRODUCT. Fully Electric vehicle - no carbon impact. Fully guided day trip for 2-3 pax only. Not rushed and plenty of time to relax. Check our first customers review on google.
Inclusions: Afternoon Tea
Exclusions:
3. Private Milford Sound Tour with Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
This fully-guided, private day trip combines the amazing return journey to Milford Sound with a boutique Milford Sound Cruise aboard the No.1 Trip Advisor rated cruise company, Cruise Milford. Highlights: • Milford Sound Cruise with Cruise Milford • Fiordland National Park • Lake Te Anau, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford River, Homer Tunnel and Mitre Peak • Wildlife Spotting While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. Our tours are led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.
Inclusions: Private and Fully Guided Tour, Cruise Entry (cruise is not private), Picnic Lunch, Bottled water, Snacks
Exclusions: Alcoholic beverages (available to purchase), Gratuities
Reviewed By lauramareehay
Mark was an excellent tour guide with a lot of local knowledge. The bird sanctuary was eye opening to the number of native bird species and we even saw a morepork which was a first for us! We absolutely love Lord of the rings and we're happy that the tour could be altered to our interests slightly to incorporate a few more Lord of the rings spots. These additions did not add to much time to the overall travel time which was good! The Mavora lakes area was a highlight and had so many hidden filming spots. We appreciated having exploration time at each point for photos and to soak in the scenery to truely picture what is was like to film in these areas. We were thrilled to get our pictures taken in Amon Hen although it would have been better if we were able to get photos together. Some more in depth knowledge for Lord of the rings super fans would have been awesome like more behind the scenes facts unique to these locations. It was an awesome opportunity to actually walk through Fangorn forest, an activity not usually in the tour. Overall we loved the tour, it introduced us to some areas that we will have to return to!
4. Premium Milford Sound Bus - Cruise - Fly Tour with Picnic Lunch from Queenstown
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
This small group day trip includes a stunning boutique Milford Sound cruise with TripAdvisors No. 1 rated cruise provider and an amazing scenic flight back to Queenstown. Highlights: •Milford Sound Cruise with Cruise Milford •Scenic return flight with Glenorchy Air •Fiordland National Park •Lake Te Anau, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford River, Homer Tunnel & Mitre Peak •Wildlife Spotting Our tours are led by our passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses that are packed with extras, ensuring your comfort and safety. While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
Inclusions: Cruise Entry, Scenic Flight from Milford Sound to Queenstown , Small Group and Fully Guided Tour, Bottled water, Snacks, Picnic Lunch
Exclusions: Alcoholic beverages (available to purchase), Gratuities
Reviewed By pcol2017
Had a great trip last week with Cheeky Kiwi. Callum our guide was fantastic - took us to beautiful spots we would never have stopped at on our own. He provided a fun commentary and was totally engaging. The cruise with Cruise Milford was stunning. Lovely staff on board who chatted happily to guests and made us feel very welcome. Would totally recommend this trip. Takes the hassle out of driving yourself, and at the end of a long day, having someone else drive you home is a bonus. Nice comfortable van and small size makes a more personal trip. 5 stars
5. Full-Day Milford Sound Extraordinaire Tour from Te Anau
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 450 reviews
This full-day Milford Sound extraordinaire tour from Te Anau will have you traveling along the spectacular Milford Road. With fun commentary and plenty of local knowledge provided you will have a chance to see keas, seals, dolphins and the Fiordland crested penguin. Visit the historical Gunns Camp and enjoy an amazing morning tea that includes wonderful date scones, tea, coffee and biscuits, chocolates and fruit juice. Experience an amazing 20-minute walk to the Chasm. You will have the chance to do the most spectacular 30-minute walk to Milford Sound. It is the Marian Cascade which is a continuous cascading waterfall draining from a glacier fed lake. Your day will be topped off with a 2-hour cruise on the famous Milford Sound.
Inclusions: National Park fees, Coffee and/or Tea, Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off from Te Anau, Air-conditioned vehicle
Exclusions: Drinks, Lunch, Hotel Pick up from Manapouri (available by special arrangement. Additional costs may apply)
Reviewed By JMR700
We had a great day - our driver was very passionate and knowledgeable, and stopped along the way at places of interest for walks (if you wanted to), views and date scones :). The minivan was super comfortable and we could enjoy the scenery which is spectacular. Cruise Milford provided the cruise service and this was an awesome experience on a beautiful boat with a very friendly and informative captain. We had booked to fly back to Te Anau if able but the weather did not permit this, however we were more than happy to make the return trip back with our group by van.
6. Full-Day Milford Sound Hiking Tour with Cruise
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 217 reviews
Enjoy a friendly, small group (maximum 15 people) day excursion to Milford Sound from Te Anau, including a small boat cruise along the full length of the fiord and out to the Tasman Sea. Our relaxed timetable ensures plenty of opportunities for guests to enjoy short walks, photographic stops and exploration with the nature guide. Plus, from November to April guests can select 2 ½ hours hiking (unguided) on the renowned Routeburn Track to Key Summit.
Inclusions: Afternoon or morning tea, Local driver/guide, Te Anau accommodation pickup and drop-off (if advised), Sightseeing boat cruise, Guided and Self-Guided Walking tours, Modern air conditioned minivan (max 15)
Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Queenstown pick ups - the tour departs from Te Anau
Reviewed By mike61119
Fabulous trip to Milford Sound today. Andrew's commentary and knowledge of the area was outstanding. Would definitely use Trips and Tramps again. Highly recommend for those looking to book in Fiordland. ????????????????????
7. Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour, Cruise & Picnic Lunch from Te Anau
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 23 reviews
Premium small group tour including boutique Milford Sound cruise onboard TripAdvisors No.1 rated cruise operator, Cruise Milford, and picnic lunch from Te Anau. There is no better way to see this famous attraction. Highlights: • Milford Sound Cruise with Cruise Milford • Fiordland National Park • Lake Te Anau, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford River, Homer Tunnel and Mitre Peak • Wildlife Spotting While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. Our tours are led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.
Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Cruise Entry, Picnic Lunch, Bottled water, Snacks
Exclusions: Gratuities, Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking
Reviewed By lauramareehay
Mark was an excellent tour guide with a lot of local knowledge. The bird sanctuary was eye opening to the number of native bird species and we even saw a morepork which was a first for us! We absolutely love Lord of the rings and we're happy that the tour could be altered to our interests slightly to incorporate a few more Lord of the rings spots. These additions did not add to much time to the overall travel time which was good! The Mavora lakes area was a highlight and had so many hidden filming spots. We appreciated having exploration time at each point for photos and to soak in the scenery to truely picture what is was like to film in these areas. We were thrilled to get our pictures taken in Amon Hen although it would have been better if we were able to get photos together. Some more in depth knowledge for Lord of the rings super fans would have been awesome like more behind the scenes facts unique to these locations. It was an awesome opportunity to actually walk through Fangorn forest, an activity not usually in the tour. Overall we loved the tour, it introduced us to some areas that we will have to return to!
8. Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour, Cruise & Picnic Lunch from Queenstown
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 153 reviews
Premium small group tour including boutique Milford Sound cruise with Cruise Milford, the number 1 Trip Advisor rated cruise company, and picnic lunch from Queenstown. There is no better way to see this most famous of attractions. Highlights: • Milford Sound Cruise with Cruise Milford • Fiordland National Park • Lake Te Anau, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford River, Homer Tunnel & Mitre Peak • Wildlife Spotting While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and little details that set our tours apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. Our tours are led by our passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing stories and background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses that are packed with extras, ensuring your comfort and safety.
Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Cruise Entry, Picnic Lunch, Bottled water, Snacks
Exclusions: Alcoholic beverages (available to purchase), Gratuities, Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking
Reviewed By tinanU2049PP
Lance was an excellent driver/Guide. He was patient and kept us entertained throughout-Thanks Lance!
9. VIP Milford Sound All Inclusive Tour
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 136 reviews
COACH Travel in luxury and ultimate comfort in our 18 seater Mercedes coach to Milford Sound. With air conditioning in Summer and heating in Winter, you will be comfortable taking in the spectacular scenery through extra large viewing windows. Passengers will be treated to an informative and insightful commentary throughout the journey with their local driver. The small seating capacity allows for more time to complete extra photo stops and small walks. Passengers will be picked up and dropped off at local accommodation. CRUISE AND LUNCH OPTIONS IN MILFORD SOUND Upon arriving in Milford Sound you will join a 2 hour Nature Cruise Mitre Peak Cruises. Passengers will enjoy Milford Sounds awe-inspiring scenery from the comfort of their small, never overcrowded vessel. Mitre Peak goes the furthest and gets closest to Milford's thunderous waterfalls. Please contact VIP Milford head office to pre-purchase a picnic lunch for $15 each. Standard and vegetarian options are available.
Inclusions: Nature Boat cruise in Milford Sound, Live commentary on board, Local guide/Driver, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Air-conditioned vehicle, Coffee and/or Tea
Exclusions: Drinks, Gratuities
Reviewed By Ellwood40
Had an amazing day tour with Steven as our guide. Very knowledgeable man. Well worth it. Would do it again. The lunch provided was lovely
10. Milford Sound Cruise from Queenstown or Te Anau
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 60 reviews
An extended and leisurely cruise of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea on a cruise designed for the free, independent traveler. Nature cruises have a relaxed and flexible itinerary designed to allow guests to see and experience what makes Milford Sound world renowned. Spend around two hours nudging into waterfalls, spotting wildlife and listening to the informative commentary from our specialist Nature Guide who mingles with guests. Keep a look out for wildlife including seals, dolphins and penguins. If you wish to pre-purchase a picnic lunch, please contact the supplier directly after making your booking. The coach travel from Queenstown is around 5 hours and around 2.5 from Te Anau (one way). The cruise is 2 hours long. Please note, the cruise will take place on board a wide selection of purpose built Real Journeys boats.
Inclusions: All Fees and Taxes, Hot drinks, Live commentary on board (English only) - interpretation handouts available in German, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Korean, Japanese and Thai, Hotel pickup and drop-off (from Queenstown and Te Anau departures if option is selected), Air-conditioned vehicle, Free WIFI (on coach, where there is reception)
Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Lunch (but available at extra cost)
Reviewed By fionanNZ
Wonderful full day of exploring Lake Manapouri & Doubtful Sound. The team are passionate about their work and their backyard and we saw so much because of their knowledge. The trip was adjusted based on the weather & what was around - the Dolphins were a special treat and beautifully managed. Our driver, Tony was very accommodating for the wide age group & special requirements. The facilities were very good considering how remote we were. This was so wonderful - PLEASE don't tell anyone about this! Keep it our secret of wonderfulness!
TAGS
