Best Things to Do in Te Anau – Milford & Doubtful Sound

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Updated : 19 th March 2026

Best Things to Do in Te Anau – Milford & Doubtful Sound

Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park and the starting point for unforgettable experiences including Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.

From scenic lake cruises and glowworm cave tours to epic day trips through Fiordland’s rugged wilderness, Te Anau offers some of the best things to do in New Zealand’s South Island.

Whether you’re chasing adventure, nature or breathtaking scenery, Te Anau is the perfect base to explore one of the country’s most iconic regions.

Explore Fiordland National Park from Te Anau

slow motion of a river at Te Anau, tourists standing on deck walkway

Welcome to Te Anau – Gateway to Fiordland National Park

Te Anau is the main base for exploring Fiordland National Park and one of the best places in New Zealand to experience iconic destinations like Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Set on the shores of Lake Te Anau, this relaxed lakeside town offers a wide range of activities, from scenic lake cruises and guided walks to glowworm caves, jet boating, and unforgettable Fiordland day trips.

From Te Anau, visitors can explore world-renowned walking tracks including the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn Tracks, cruise across Lake Te Anau, or discover the famous Te Anau Glowworm Caves. For those seeking adventure, jet boating and horse trekking provide a more exhilarating way to experience Fiordland’s rugged wilderness.

Te Anau is also the perfect base for visiting Milford Sound, while nearby Manapouri is the gateway to remote journeys into Doubtful Sound. These spectacular fiords are known for towering cliffs, waterfalls and abundant wildlife, making this region one of the most unforgettable places to visit in New Zealand.

Whether you’re planning a scenic day trip, outdoor adventure or relaxed nature experience, Te Anau offers some of the best things to do in Fiordland.

Discover More of Te Anau & Fiordland

Te Anau is more than just a base for Milford Sound — it’s a destination in its own right. Surrounded by lakes, native forest and alpine landscapes, the area offers a mix of relaxed nature experiences, hidden local spots and easy access to Fiordland National Park’s most iconic locations.

The Lake2Lake Trail is a scenic cycling and walking track that stretches 28.5 km between Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri,

Hidden Gems in Te Anau

Ivon Wilson Park – A peaceful reserve close to town, ideal for short walks, picnics and enjoying native bush in a quiet setting.

Lake Mistletoe Track – A short loop track near Te Anau Downs leading to a tranquil forest lake, best visited early for calm conditions and birdlife.

Fiordland Community Garden – A small, locally run garden that reflects the region’s slower pace and community spirit.

Te Anau Bird Sanctuary – One of the best free things to do in Te Anau, home to rare native species including takahē and kākā.

Te Anau by Season

Summer (Dec–Feb): Lake cruises, kayaking, cycling and Kepler Track day walks

Autumn (Mar–May): Fewer crowds, crisp air and vibrant autumn colours — ideal for photography

Winter (Jun–Aug): Snow-capped mountains, quiet roads and cosy cafés

Spring (Sep–Nov): Peak waterfalls, wildflowers and active birdlife throughout Fiordland

Popular Day Trips from Te Anau

Milford Sound – One of New Zealand’s most famous destinations, featuring dramatic fiords, waterfalls and scenic cruises

Doubtful Sound (via Manapouri) – A quieter, more remote wilderness experience with full-day and overnight cruises

Lake Manapouri – Just 20 minutes from Te Anau, offering peaceful lake views, walking tracks and access to Doubtful Sound

Lake Hauroko & Wairaurahiri River – A remote jet boat adventure for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-track Fiordland experience

Why Base Yourself in Te Anau

Te Anau offers the best balance of comfort, access and variety in Fiordland. While there are plenty of free and easy experiences, guided tours and cruises open up parts of the region that simply can’t be reached independently — from remote fiords to hidden wilderness valleys.

Whether you’re staying a night or using Te Anau as your base for exploring Fiordland, it’s one of the most rewarding places in New Zealand to visit.

 

Te Anau FAQs – Things to Do, Day Trips & Travel Tips

Te Anau offers a wide range of experiences including Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound day trips, scenic lake cruises, glowworm cave tours, hiking sections of the Kepler Track, and exploring Fiordland National Park.

Popular day trips from Te Anau include Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound via Manapouri, Lake Manapouri, and remote Fiordland adventures such as jet boating on the Wairaurahiri River.

Yes, Te Anau is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand, offering access to Fiordland National Park, world-famous fiords, scenic cruises, walking tracks, and unique nature experiences.

Milford Sound is approximately a 2-hour drive (120 km) from Te Anau, following one of New Zealand’s most scenic alpine routes through Fiordland National Park.

At night, visitors can explore the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, enjoy peaceful lakeside walks, or relax at local restaurants and cafés in the town centre.

Yes, Te Anau offers several free activities including lakeside walks, visiting the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary, exploring local parks, and short walking tracks around Fiordland. More Information Here:

Te Anau can be visited year-round. Summer is ideal for hiking and lake activities, while winter offers snow-capped scenery and fewer crowds. Spring and autumn provide excellent conditions for photography and quieter travel.