< Surrounded by some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, the town of Te Anau takes its name from New Zealand’s second-largest natural reservoir formed by a massive glacier. To the east of the lake are seen the verdant pastoral plains of Southland, while from the west stunning vertical rise of the Murchison Mountains and Mount Luxmore. Te Anau is mostly used by tourists as a base for exploring the scenic hiking and walking trails that lead to the Fiordland National Park, earning it the well-deserved moniker of “The Walking Capital of the World”. 

The most popular of these are the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn tracks. Other most sought after destinations include Milford Sound (home to a spectacular underwater observatory) to which Te Anau is the closest service base, and the Lake Manapouri, which also serves as a starting gate of excursions to Doubtful Sound. Kayaking, diving and cruises are on offer in these areas, as well as the chance to observe penguins, seals and dolphins.

The stunning terrain can be viewed by visitors in a multitude of ways – on four wheel farm bikes, by foot or even on horseback. Scenic boat trips and lake cruises offer a different vantage view as well as fishing opportunities and a chance to visit the famed glow worm caves of Te Anau. Jet boating on the Wairarahiri and Waiau Rivers and aerial tours over Fiordland are also exciting sightseeing alternatives.

Fiordland’s night sky safaris allow lovers of astronomy to be dazzled by the clarity of the stars, while more earthy wonders can be explored in the flora and fauna of the park, where nests the rare endemic Takahe birds.

From laid-back cafes and unique souvenir stores, Te Anau offers a range of dining, shopping and recreational options for visitors, foremost among which is the Fiordland Cinema and Wine Bar. With so many things to do in Te Anau, guests of Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau will find themselves among an assortment of entertainment options.