Located in the south-west corner of the South Island is Fiordland. Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, covers a large area best explored from either Te Anau or Manapouri.
Te Anau is the gateway to three of the Great Walks of New Zealand – Milford Track, Routeburn Track, and Kepler Track.
Undoubtedly the most well-known track is the Milford Track, a 33.5 mile, five day/four night hike through the heart of Fiordland National Park; you will climb from the valley floor to peaks and saddles with spectacular views. Hope for rain on your hike and your reward will be seeing stunning waterfalls in all their glory.
A shorter option is the Routeburn Track, a 20.1 mile, three day/two night hike; walk through ancient forests, take in the views of the Darran Mountains, and walk beside pristine rivers. Fully guided walks are available, with excellent accommodations and all your catering needs taken care of – all you need to do is walk with a small backpack and take in the scenery.
If you have limited time or would rather just get a taste of one of the Great Walks, there are guided day walks available into each of these and other tracks.
Tired of keeping your feet on the ground, then the sky’s the limit for seeing Fiordland National Park – take a scenic flight by fixed-wing, helicopter, or floatplane – you will be amazed by the breathtaking scenery from above.
Do not miss a cruise on Milford Sound, a wonderful way to experience the surrounding mountains, fiords, and waterfalls. Be sure to keep an eye on the water where you may see wildlife, such as penguins, dolphins, and seals.
How about an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound? Doubtful Sound is not as well-known as Milford Sound, but just as beautiful! On an overnight cruise you will get an opportunity to get out on the Sound in a kayak and if you are lucky get up close and personal with the local wildlife.
If you have seen enough above ground, take an underground adventure! After a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau, a friendly guide will take you into a mesmerizing cave system, you will see how the rushing water has sculpted the rock formations over the years and you will take a small boat into an exquisite glowworm grotto, where the silence will overwhelm you!
Hopefully, you have brought your appetite with you! While in Te Anau, make sure you sample the local delicacies such as venison and crayfish, or drop into Miles Better Pies and try out a gourmet pie!
Contact a member of the Best of New Zealand team today and begin planning your trip today!
