Annual Events in Te Anau
While Te Anau is a small town, it hosts several events throughout the year that celebrate the region's natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit. Many events are weather-dependent and dates may vary, so check locally for current information.
Summer Events (December - February)
New Year's Eve Celebrations
When: December 31st
Where: Te Anau Lakefront
Ring in the New Year with lakefront celebrations. Local bars and restaurants offer special menus and extended hours. The lakefront is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors to watch the midnight festivities. Family-friendly atmosphere with many visitors camping or staying locally to enjoy the summer holiday period.
Waitangi Day
When: February 6th
Where: Various locations
New Zealand's national day commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. While Te Anau doesn't host major public events, it's a public holiday when many businesses close or operate reduced hours. A good day to explore the outdoors or relax by the lake.
Kepler Challenge
When: Early December
Where: Kepler Track, starting from Te Anau
New Zealand's premier mountain running event sees hundreds of athletes tackle the 60km Kepler Track in a single day. Elite runners complete the course in under 5 hours. The event brings significant visitor numbers to Te Anau and showcases the stunning Kepler Track. Spectators can watch the start and finish at the Te Anau lakefront. Registration opens months in advance and fills quickly.
Website: www.keplerchallenge.co.nz
Autumn Events (March - May)
Fiordland Fishing Competition
When: Autumn months (dates vary)
Where: Lake Te Anau and surrounding waters
Local fishing competitions attract anglers from across the region to compete for prizes. Lake Te Anau's excellent brown and rainbow trout fishing makes it a popular competition venue. Check with local fishing shops for current competition schedules.
ANZAC Day
When: April 25th
Where: Te Anau War Memorial
Dawn service and commemorations honor New Zealand and Australian servicemen and women. The community gathers at the local war memorial for a solemn dawn service, followed by a civic ceremony later in the morning. Shops and businesses close until 1pm on ANZAC Day.
Autumn Photography Season
When: Late March - April
Where: Throughout Fiordland
While not an organized event, autumn is peak season for photographers as beech forests turn golden. Many photography tour operators offer specialized autumn tours. The combination of fall colors, snow-capped peaks, and dramatic weather creates spectacular photo opportunities.
Winter Events (June - August)
Matariki (MÄori New Year)
When: June/July (dates vary based on lunar calendar)
Where: Various locations
Matariki marks the MÄori New Year, celebrated when the Matariki star cluster (Pleiades) rises in mid-winter. While Te Anau doesn't host large public celebrations, it's an opportunity to learn about MÄori culture and traditions. Some local operators offer cultural experiences during this period.
Winter Solstice
When: June 21st
Where: Throughout Te Anau
The shortest day of the year is marked by some locals with winter celebrations. While not an official event, it's a good time to experience Te Anau's quiet winter atmosphere, enjoy cozy cafes and restaurants, and appreciate the dramatic snow-covered mountain scenery.
Winter Stargazing
When: Throughout winter (best on clear nights)
Where: Dark sky locations around Te Anau
Winter's long, dark nights provide excellent stargazing opportunities. While not organized events, several operators offer guided stargazing tours. The Milky Way, Southern Cross, and Magellanic Clouds are spectacular from Te Anau's dark skies.
Spring Events (September - November)
Labour Day Weekend
When: Fourth Monday in October
Where: Throughout Te Anau
The long weekend marks the unofficial start of the summer tourism season. Many Kiwis take advantage of the long weekend for camping and outdoor activities. Te Anau sees increased visitor numbers as the weather warms and Great Walks season begins.
Great Walks Season Opening
When: Late October
Where: Kepler, Milford, and Routeburn Tracks
The official Great Walks season begins in late October when huts become fully serviced and bookings are required. This marks the start of the busy tramping season. DOC often hosts information sessions at the Visitor Centre to help trampers prepare.
Spring Wildflower Season
When: October - November
Where: Throughout Fiordland National Park
Spring brings wildflowers to alpine areas and forests. While not an organized event, it's a beautiful time for hiking and nature photography. Mountain daisies, buttercups, and native orchids bloom throughout the park.
Ongoing Activities & Attractions
Weekly Farmers Market
When: Saturday mornings (summer season)
Where: Te Anau town center
Time: 9am - 12pm
During summer months, a small farmers market operates offering local produce, crafts, and food. A great place to meet locals and sample regional products. Check locally for current operating schedule as it's weather and season dependent.
DOC Visitor Centre Programs
When: Year-round
Where: DOC Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre
The DOC Visitor Centre regularly hosts educational talks, conservation presentations, and guided walks. Programs vary by season. Check the notice board at the centre or ask staff for current programs. Topics include native birds, conservation efforts, and park history.
Guided Nature Walks
When: Daily (weather permitting)
Where: Various locations
Multiple operators offer guided nature walks year-round. These range from short lakeside strolls to full-day wilderness experiences. Guides provide insights into Fiordland's ecology, geology, and history.
Nearby Regional Events
Queenstown Winter Festival
When: June/July
Where: Queenstown (171km from Te Anau)
New Zealand's premier winter festival features 10 days of music, comedy, sports, and entertainment. Many visitors combine a Queenstown Winter Festival trip with a visit to Te Anau and Milford Sound.
Bluff Oyster Festival
When: May
Where: Bluff (180km from Te Anau)
Celebrates the famous Bluff oyster season with food, entertainment, and oyster-eating competitions. A popular event for seafood lovers visiting the Southland region.
Southland Anniversary Day
When: Varies (usually January)
Where: Throughout Southland region
Regional public holiday for Southland. Many businesses close or operate reduced hours. A popular long weekend for domestic tourism.
Planning Your Visit Around Events
Peak Season Considerations
Major events like the Kepler Challenge can significantly impact accommodation availability. Book well in advance if visiting during popular events. Conversely, visiting during quieter periods offers better availability and rates.
Public Holidays
New Zealand public holidays affect business hours and tour operations. Many businesses close or operate reduced hours on:
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Day after New Year (January 2)
- Waitangi Day (February 6)
- Good Friday and Easter Monday
- ANZAC Day (April 25) - closed until 1pm
- Queen's Birthday (first Monday in June)
- Matariki (June/July)
- Labour Day (fourth Monday in October)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
- Boxing Day (December 26)
School Holidays
New Zealand school holidays bring increased domestic tourism:
- Summer holidays: mid-December to early February
- Autumn break: 2 weeks in April
- Winter break: 2 weeks in July
- Spring break: 2 weeks in September/October
Finding Current Event Information
- Fiordland i-SITE: (03) 249 8900 - current events and activities
- DOC Visitor Centre: (03) 249 7924 - conservation events and programs
- Local Notice Boards: Check cafes, accommodation, and the i-SITE for event posters
- Social Media: Follow local Te Anau businesses for event updates
- Accommodation Hosts: Ask your hosts about current events and activities
Creating Your Own Experience
While Te Anau doesn't have a packed events calendar like larger cities, the town's appeal lies in its natural attractions and outdoor activities. Every day offers opportunities for unique experiences:
- Sunrise over Lake Te Anau
- Wildlife spotting in Fiordland National Park
- Stargazing under dark skies
- Hiking through ancient forests
- Kayaking on pristine waters
- Photography in ever-changing conditions
- Meeting fellow travelers and locals
The real "event" in Te Anau is experiencing one of the world's most spectacular natural environments!