Top Activities on the Ground in Te Anau

A Milford Sound cruise is a must-do activity in southern New Zealand. Make the most of your time on this tour from Te Anau that includes a picnic lunch. Look at the views rather than the road by going with a guide and driver. You’ll see many spectacular sights along the way, including the Mirror Lakes and the Homer Tunnel.

See the glowworm caves of Te Anau on an underground adventure sure to charm visitors of all ages. An informative guide joins you on the 2hour and 15 minute Te Anau glowworm caves tour, starting with a cruise across Lake Te Anau. Then marvel at the shimmering illumination of thousands of glowworms as you glide through the quiet darkness of this magical underground world.

Step into a powerful Fiordland Jet boat and cruise down the mighty Waiau River on this roughly two-hour adventure into the heart of Fiordland National Park. With no windows and no ceilings on the jet boat, you’ll hear the wind rush past you as you head down river to Lake Manapouri. Disembark and explore the Park’s ancient forest, then return in your jet boat, doing stunts along the way that you could never do in a car or tour bus.

Go on one of New Zealand's "Great Walks," the Routeburn Track from Te Anau to Key Summit, during this full-day guided walking tour. Get views of alpine herb fields, lush forests, and enjoy panoramic views of South Island. Travel with a small group of 12 hikers or fewer, ensuring personalized attention from your guide.

Get around Lake Te Anau with ease on a small-group tour that combines an elegant cruise and guided nature walks in Fiordland National Park. At the wharf you’ll board a historical motor yacht for a relaxed cruise with afternoon tea. After a bush walk amid the South Island’s famed scenery,  your crew sets sail for the return. This cruise is limited to 16 passengers to ensure a comfortable, personable experience.

Active, outdoor-loving travelers will enjoy this half-day jet boating and cycling combo. Zoom up the Upper Waiau River and across Lake Manapouri on a thrilling jet boat ride–don’t forget to take in the amazing views. After a short guided nature walk you’ll grab your bikes for a 7 mile (10 km) ride along a moderately challenging riverside trail. Learn about the area from your guide on the way.

Soar over Lake Te Anau via helicopter. Soak up views of the Hidden Lakes, the Main Divide and the remote Kepler Mountains before getting dropped off at the Luxmore Hut for your hike. Soak up the amazing views from Luxmore Summit, before descending by foot onto the shores of Lake Te Anau.

The most scenic jet boat ride ever: see actual “Lord of the Rings” film locations on the way down to the beautiful Lake Manapouri. On the way down the river you will get the chance to spot rainbow and brown trout. There is an amazing view around every river bend. The ride has a pinch of adrenalin and heaps of natural beauty. Lake Manapouri is amazing and you may not see another boat in sight. Your start of part of the Kepler Track begins on disembarking from the boat at approximately 12:00 pm. A leisurely guided walk begins through towering Beech trees and even taller Rimu trees. Our guide will share his/her knowledge with you; Native trees, ferns and the occasional Bellbirds, Tuis, friendly Fantails, Tomtits, Finches and Robins will keep your camera clicking. The hike concludes at the large suspension bridge at Rainbow Reach where your transport awaits to take you back to Te Anau

Experience the best of the Kepler Track on an easy day trip that includes a helicopter drop-off at Mt. Luxmore. Enjoy an extended scenic flight over Lake Te Anau and a collection of lakes hidden in the mountains. Land on Mt. Maury to admire the views, then continue to Luxmore Hut, where you’ll start your day hike on the Kepler Track. At the end, return to Te Anau by boat.

Discover the remarkable Kepler Track on this full day tour, including helicopter and water taxi. Reach the Luxmore Hut by helicopter, taking in panoramic mountain views at this iconic hiking location. Venture on an alpine hike before descending through native beech forest to the sandy lake shore, where you’ll catch a water taxi back to Te Anau.