Intrepid full-time adventurers Tom and Jordan Tasman have visited 25 countries together, kicking off their RV adventures in a Ford Transit named Muriel some years ago. These days, they are well and truly settled – officially full-time RVers and addicted to exploring every corner of New Zealand, sharing their adventures on their travel blog tasmantravels.com. This month, the pair share their adventures in Te Anau.
Nestled on the edge of the majestic Fiordland National Park, Te Anau is so much more than just a gateway to Milford Sound – it’s a destination overflowing with charm, adventure, and many opportunities to unwind and enjoy the Te Anau pace of life.
Whether you’re staying for a quick visit or planning an extended getaway, this lakeside gem has a way of captivating the heart and offers much to entice travellers of all ages and interests.
Where to Stay
As caravan travellers, we found Te Anau wonderfully accommodating. The Tasman Holiday Park offered modern facilities, spacious powered sites, and a friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect base for our adventures. For a quieter escape, and if you’re a member, the NZMCA Park provided nice views and a peaceful retreat for self-contained travellers.
For visitors without caravans, Te Anau boasts a wide range of options. From cosy motels and charming boutique lodges to luxurious accommodations, there’s something to suit every preference and budget.
When it came to activities, we were spoilt for choice and embarked on several of the options to share the ones we particularly loved, from budget friendly to splurging, and from easy to adventurous!
Soaring Above Fiordland: Southern Lakes Helicopters
The absolute highlight of our time in Te Anau was our scenic helicopter flight with Southern Lakes Helicopters. For 70 unforgettable minutes, we soared over Fiordland’s raw beauty. From the silent grandeur of Doubtful Sound to the striking Wilmot Pass and the ethereal Campbell’s Kingdom, every moment felt like a dream.
The experience included two alpine landings – one on Mount Kidd – that allowed us to truly soak in the remote wilderness. It’s hard to put into words how awe-inspiring this was; it offered a perspective of Fiordland’s majesty that you just can’t get any other way.
Fiordland Jet
For a dose of adventure, Fiordland Jet was an absolute must. Skimming across Lake Manapouri and down the Waiau River, the ride managed to strike the perfect balance between thrilling and family friendly. It wasn’t just about speed, though – the breathtaking views, film locations and fascinating commentary from the guides made it an experience we’ll be talking about for years.
Fiordland Historic Cruises
For something a little more relaxed, we hopped aboard a Fiordland Historic Cruise, aboard the beautifully restored Faith, a classic 1935 motor yacht. This elegant vessel has a rich history, having once served in World War II before finding its home on Lake Te Anau. The cruise offers a slower-paced, intimate way to explore the lake, with stunning scenery, a guided nature walk, and plenty of fascinating local history shared by the knowledgeable crew. Sipping on a hot drink while gliding across the water made for an unforgettable experience.
Te Anau Bird Sanctuary
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary, a haven for some of New Zealand’s rarest and most endangered birds. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Te Anau, this sanctuary plays a vital role in conservation, breeding, and rehabilitation efforts to help protect native species.
A definite highlight of this experience was seeing the takahē, my absolute favourite New Zealand bird. Once thought to be extinct, these rare, flightless birds have made an incredible comeback thanks to dedicated conservation efforts. The sanctuary also cares for other native species like kākā, ruru (morepork), and scaup, offering an up-close and educational experience that’s well worth a visit.
Fiordland Cinema and Black Dog Bar
Evenings in Te Anau are special, and particularly when you spend time at Fiordland Cinema. Exclusive to Fiordland Cinema and screened daily, Ata Whenua – Shadowland was mesmerising, offering a glimpse into Fiordland’s untouched beauty. Whether you’re preparing for your Fiordland adventure or unable to visit the park this visit, the film provides a meaningful connection to the region. Filmed across extremes of season, climate and terrain, it’s a truly authentic and immersive experience which really gives you a deeper understanding of the Fiordland wilderness. Fiordland Cinema was specially built to house these screenings, along with mainstream movies and art house releases.
Afterwards, we sat back and relaxed at the Black Dog Bar, right next door. Its warm atmosphere, excellent drinks (an impressive array of craft beer, whiskey and local wines) and local hospitality were the perfect finish to a day of exploring. It’s also an ideal place to meet before your movie experience, as drink can be taken into the movie theatre with you.
Outdoor Adventures
Cyclists will love the Lake2Lake Trail, a scenic ride following the Waiau River from Te Anau to Manapouri. It’s 28.5km in total and Grade 2 (easy) so achievable for most and can be used in either direction. There are plenty of options to create shorter trips.
For walkers, the iconic Kepler Track offers options for short day walks or multi-day treks, all surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty. It’s obvious why this is one of the most popular Great Walks in Fiordland with its panorama of ever-changing scenery taking in the shores of Lake Te Anau, as well as Mt Luxmore.
As home to an impressive three of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks, Te Anau is well and truly deserving of its place on the map as New Zealand’s walking capital.
Shopping and Dining
Te Anau’s town centre buzzes with charming boutiques and inviting eateries. From unique souvenirs to practical outdoor gear, the shopping options cater to all. The town’s cafes and restaurants deliver delicious local fare, perfect for refuelling after a day of adventure. A favourite of ours (admittedly it was difficult to choose) was Milford Road Merchant. Pop in and see Jen and the team for some gorgeous coffee, amazing Sanga’s Pies and a bit of shopping for unique Kiwi gifts.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of your stay, consult Visit Fiordland. Their team provides expert tips, maps, and tailored advice to help you uncover Te Anau’s best-kept secrets. The Fiordland.co.nz website is kept updated with special offers on Milford Sound experiences, Te Anau activities, accommodation packages, scenic flights, etc. There are excellent suggestions for those wanting to make the most of their time in this special place – themed into high adrenalin activities, to relaxing and resetting options, and everything in between.
Final Thoughts
Te Anau is far more than just a gateway to Milford Sound. With its blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, it’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression. And while we merely dipped our toe into this exhilarating landscape, we definitely have plans to return. There’s plenty we didn’t manage to include on this trip, including glow worm cave tours, fishing, and the famous local wharf jump (definitely next time!).
Let Te Anau captivate you – it’s the perfect base for your Fiordland escape.
