Visitor Information

Getting to Te Anau

By Car

From Queenstown: 171 kilometers (2.5 hours) via State Highway 6 and 94. The scenic drive follows Lake Wakatipu before turning south through rolling farmland. The route is well-maintained and suitable for all vehicles. Rental cars available from Queenstown Airport and town center.

From Invercargill: 157 kilometers (2 hours) north via State Highway 6 and 94. The drive passes through Southland farmland with views of the Takitimu Mountains. Rental cars available from Invercargill Airport.

From Dunedin: 290 kilometers (3.5-4 hours) via State Highway 1 and 94. Longer drive but scenic, passing through Southland towns including Gore and Lumsden.

From Christchurch: 630 kilometers (7-8 hours) via State Highway 1 and 6. Long drive best split over two days with overnight stop in Oamaru, Dunedin, or Queenstown.

Driving Tips: Fill up with fuel in Te Anau before heading to Milford Sound - no fuel available at Milford. Watch for wildlife on roads, especially at dawn and dusk. Roads can be icy in winter - carry chains if traveling May-September. Allow extra time for photo stops on scenic routes.

By Bus

InterCity: Daily coach services from Queenstown, Invercargill, and Dunedin. Coaches are comfortable with onboard toilets and WiFi. Book online for best fares. Services connect with Milford Sound tours.

Milford Sound Tour Buses: Many Milford Sound tour operators offer pickups from Te Anau. Some allow one-way travel if you're not taking the full tour.

Naked Bus: Budget bus service with advance booking discounts. Less frequent than InterCity but cheaper.

By Air

Nearest Airports:

• Queenstown Airport (ZQN): 171km away. International and domestic flights. Major rental car companies. Airport shuttles to Te Anau available ($60-80 NZD per person).
• Invercargill Airport (IVC): 157km away. Domestic flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Rental cars available. Limited shuttle services.

Te Anau Airport: Small airfield used for scenic flights and charter services. No scheduled passenger services.

By Campervan/Motorhome

Te Anau is a popular stop on South Island campervan routes. Several holiday parks offer powered sites. Freedom camping is restricted - use designated campsites only. Dump stations available at holiday parks. Fuel stations in town center. Supermarket for supplies.

Weather & Climate

Current Te Anau Weather

7-Day Forecast

Milford Road Weather & Conditions

Seasonal Overview

Summer (December-February): Average temperatures 10-25°C. Warmest and driest season, though rain is still common. Long daylight hours (sunrise around 5:30am, sunset around 9:30pm). Peak tourist season. Pack layers as temperatures vary throughout the day.

Autumn (March-May): Average temperatures 5-20°C. Beautiful fall colors in beech forests (late March-April). Increasing rainfall. Shorter days. Pack warm layers and rain gear.

Winter (June-August): Average temperatures 0-12°C. Coldest season with frequent frosts. Snow on mountains, occasionally in town. Shortest days (sunrise around 8am, sunset around 5:30pm). Pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, warm jacket, hat, and gloves.

Spring (September-November): Average temperatures 5-18°C. Warming weather with wildflowers blooming. High rainfall from snowmelt. Increasing daylight. Pack layers and waterproof clothing.

Rainfall

Te Anau receives approximately 1,200mm of rainfall annually, spread throughout the year. Fiordland National Park receives significantly more (6-8 meters annually in some areas). Rain can occur any day of the year - always pack waterproof clothing. The saying "if you don't like the weather, wait 15 minutes" applies in Fiordland.

What to Pack

• All Seasons: Waterproof jacket, layers, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Summer: Light clothing, swimwear, insect repellent (sandflies!), sun protection
• Winter: Warm jacket, thermal layers, warm hat, gloves, waterproof boots
• Hiking: Sturdy boots, rain gear, warm layers, first aid kit, map, water, snacks

Live Weather Resources

• MetService Te Anau: www.metservice.com/towns-cities/locations/te-anau
• Mountain Weather: Fiordland Backcountry Forecast
• Avalanche Advisory: www.avalanche.net.nz (winter months)
• DOC Weather Updates: Check at DOC Visitor Centre for latest conditions

Safety Information

Outdoor Safety

Be Prepared: New Zealand's wilderness can be unforgiving. Weather changes rapidly, tracks can be challenging, and help may be hours away. Always:

• Check weather forecasts and track conditions before departing
• Tell someone your plans and expected return time
• Carry appropriate clothing, food, water, and emergency supplies
• Know your limits - choose tracks appropriate for your fitness and experience
• Turn back if conditions deteriorate
• Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) for multi-day trips

Hypothermia Risk: Even in summer, hypothermia is a risk in Fiordland. Wet, cold, and windy conditions can quickly lead to hypothermia. Wear layers, carry spare dry clothing, and know the symptoms (shivering, confusion, fatigue, slurred speech).

River Crossings: Rivers can rise rapidly after rain. Never cross flooded rivers. If in doubt, wait it out. Many trampers have died attempting dangerous river crossings.

Avalanche Risk: Winter and spring bring avalanche risk to alpine areas. Check avalanche forecasts. Avoid steep slopes after heavy snow. The Milford Road can close due to avalanche danger.

Water Safety

Lake Te Anau's water is cold year-round (10-18°C). Wear a life jacket when boating or kayaking. Be aware of changing weather conditions - winds can pick up quickly on the lake. Supervise children near water at all times.

Wildlife

Sandflies: These tiny biting insects are prevalent around Te Anau and Fiordland. Most active in calm, warm conditions. Use insect repellent containing DEET. Cover exposed skin. Bites can be very itchy - antihistamine cream helps.

Kea: These intelligent alpine parrots are endangered but can be destructive. Don't feed kea (it's illegal and harmful to them). Secure all food and gear. Watch for kea around parked cars - they can damage rubber seals and wiper blades.

Wasps: German and common wasps are prevalent in beech forests (August-April). Carry antihistamine if allergic. Avoid swatting - move away calmly.

Road Safety

Drive to conditions, especially on the Milford Road. Watch for wildlife, particularly at dawn and dusk. Take breaks on long drives. Don't drive tired. Roads can be icy in winter - reduce speed and increase following distance. Many roads are narrow and winding - allow extra travel time.

Emergency Services

Emergency Number: 111 (police, fire, ambulance)

Te Anau Medical Centre: Luxmore Drive, (03) 249 7007. Open weekdays 8:30am-5pm. After-hours service available.

Te Anau Police: Mokonui Street, (03) 249 7600

Southland Hospital (Invercargill): 157km away, 24-hour emergency department

Search and Rescue: Dial 111 and ask for police if someone is missing or injured in the outdoors

Local Services

Visitor Information

Fiordland i-SITE Visitor Centre: Located on Lakefront Drive, the i-SITE provides free information, maps, and booking services for accommodation, tours, and activities. Knowledgeable staff can help plan your visit. Free WiFi available. Open daily 8:30am-6pm (extended summer hours, reduced winter hours).

DOC Visitor Centre: Essential stop for anyone planning outdoor activities. Provides track information, weather forecasts, hut bookings, and conservation information. Excellent displays about Fiordland's ecology and history. Free entry. Open daily 8:30am-4:30pm (extended summer hours).

Banking & Money

ATMs: Available at ANZ Bank (Milford Crescent) and Fresh Choice Supermarket. Withdraw cash before heading to Milford Sound or remote areas.

Banks: ANZ Bank has a branch in Te Anau (limited hours). Other banks have no physical presence - use ATMs.

Currency Exchange: Limited options in Te Anau. Better to exchange currency in Queenstown or major cities. Most businesses accept credit cards.

EFTPOS: Widely accepted. Most businesses have minimum purchase amounts ($10-20) for card payments.

Internet & Communications

WiFi: Available at most accommodation, cafes, and the i-SITE. Quality and speed vary. Some properties charge for WiFi or limit data.

Cell Phone Coverage: Good coverage in Te Anau town. Limited or no coverage in Fiordland National Park, including most of the Milford Road. Don't rely on cell phones for emergency communication in the backcountry.

Post Office: NZ Post agency located in Paper Plus store on Milford Crescent. Open weekdays 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-12pm.

Medical Services

Te Anau Medical Centre: Luxmore Drive, (03) 249 7007. General practice providing medical care for visitors and locals. Appointments and walk-ins accepted. After-hours service available.

Pharmacy: Te Anau Pharmacy on Milford Crescent. Open weekdays 9am-5:30pm, Saturday 9am-12pm. Closed Sundays and public holidays.

Dental: Te Anau Dental Centre provides emergency and routine dental care. Appointments recommended.

Fuel Stations

Two fuel stations in Te Anau (BP and Mobil) offering petrol and diesel. Open daily with extended hours in summer. Prices higher than major cities. No fuel available at Milford Sound - fill up in Te Anau. Credit cards accepted.

Supermarkets & Supplies

Fresh Choice: Main supermarket with full range of groceries. Open 7am-9pm daily.

Four Square: Smaller convenience store. Open 7am-8pm daily.

Outside Sports: Outdoor gear, clothing, camping supplies, fishing tackle, and bike rentals.

Paper Plus: Books, magazines, stationery, gifts, and NZ Post services.

Laundry

Coin-operated laundries available at holiday parks. Some motels and backpackers have laundry facilities for guests. Te Anau Laundromat on Milford Crescent offers self-service washing and drying.

Vehicle Services

Mechanical Repairs: Several mechanics in Te Anau for vehicle repairs and servicing.

Tyre Services: Tyre repairs and replacements available.

Car Wash: Self-service car wash at BP station.

Getting Around Te Anau

Walking

Te Anau town center is compact and easily walkable. Most accommodation, restaurants, and services are within 10-15 minutes walk of each other. The lakefront walkway provides scenic walking route. Holiday parks are 1-2km from center (20-30 minute walk).

Cycling

Te Anau is bike-friendly with quiet streets and scenic lakefront path. Bike rentals available from Outside Sports ($45-75 NZD per day). Good option for getting around town and accessing nearby attractions.

Taxis & Shuttles

Limited taxi services available. Book ahead, especially for early morning airport transfers. Some accommodation providers offer shuttle services. Milford Sound tour operators provide pickups from Te Anau accommodation.

Car Rental

Several rental companies operate in Te Anau, though selection is limited compared to Queenstown. Book ahead, especially in peak season. Having your own vehicle provides flexibility for exploring Fiordland at your own pace.

Tours

Most tours include pickup from Te Anau accommodation. Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and glowworm cave tours all include transport. This can be more economical than self-driving, especially for solo travelers.

Practical Information

Time Zone

New Zealand Standard Time (NZST): UTC+12. Daylight Saving Time (NZDT): UTC+13 from late September to early April. New Zealand is one of the first countries to see each new day.

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Coins: 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2. Notes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100. Prices are rounded to nearest 10 cents for cash transactions.

Language

English is the primary language. Māori is also an official language. You'll encounter many Māori place names throughout Fiordland. Most locals speak only English.

Electricity

230V/50Hz. New Zealand uses type I power outlets (angled flat pins). Bring appropriate adapters for international devices.

Tipping

Not expected in New Zealand but appreciated for exceptional service. 10% is generous. No service charges added to bills.

Smoking

Smoking is banned in all indoor public spaces including restaurants, bars, and accommodation. Many outdoor areas also prohibit smoking. Designated smoking areas available at some venues.

Alcohol

Legal drinking age is 18. ID may be requested. Alcohol sold at licensed premises, bottle stores, and supermarkets. Drinking in public places is generally prohibited.

Public Holidays

New Zealand public holidays when many businesses close or operate reduced hours:

• New Year's Day (1 January)
• Day after New Year's Day (2 January)
• Waitangi Day (6 February)
• Good Friday (varies)
• Easter Monday (varies)
• ANZAC Day (25 April)
• Queen's Birthday (first Monday in June)
• Matariki (varies, June/July)
• Labour Day (fourth Monday in October)
• Christmas Day (25 December)
• Boxing Day (26 December)
• Southland Anniversary Day (varies, usually January)

Environmental Responsibility

Help protect Fiordland's pristine environment:

• Stay on marked tracks to prevent erosion
• Carry out all rubbish - leave no trace
• Don't feed wildlife
• Clean boots and gear to prevent spreading seeds and diseases
• Use designated toilets or bury human waste properly
• Respect wildlife - observe from a distance
• Take only photos, leave only footprints

Useful Contacts

• Emergency Services: 111 (police, fire, ambulance)
• Te Anau i-SITE: (03) 249 8900
• DOC Visitor Centre: (03) 249 7924
• Te Anau Medical Centre: (03) 249 7007
• Te Anau Police: (03) 249 7600
• Milford Road Conditions: 0800 444 449
• Weather Forecast: www.metservice.com
• Real Journeys (tours): 0800 656 501