Visitor Information

Getting to Te Anau

By Car

From Queenstown: About 2 hours from Frankton (where the airport is), or closer to 2.5 hours from Queenstown city centre. The road between Queenstown and Frankton can be busy and slow at peak times, so allow extra time. The drive follows Lake Wakatipu before turning south through rolling farmland. Well-maintained and suitable for all vehicles.

From Invercargill: Around 1 hour 45 minutes in good conditions, though closer to 2 hours depending on traffic and where you're coming from. From Invercargill Airport it's more like 2 hours. The drive passes through Southland farmland with views of the Takitimu Mountains.

From Dunedin: About 3.5 hours but it's a longer drive so people tend to stop for a break — allow 3.5 to 4 hours realistically. Scenic drive passing through Southland towns including Gore and Lumsden.

From Christchurch: 7 to 8 hours and a long drive. Our recommendation is to break the journey and stay at Tekapo on the way — a great wee spot. Twizel is another lovely place to stop, but be prepared — I had my coldest night ever in New Zealand staying there, reaching a lovely -11 overnight.

Driving Tips: Fill up with fuel in Te Anau before heading to Milford Sound. There is a self-service petrol station at Milford but it frequently runs out, so never rely on it. Watch for wildlife on roads, especially at dawn and dusk. Roads can be icy in winter — carry chains if travelling May to September. Allow extra time for photo stops on scenic routes.

By Bus

InterCity: 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.

Great Journeys of NZ: Scenic coach connections from other parts of the South Island.

By Air

Nearest Airports:

• Queenstown Airport (ZQN): About 2 hours away. International and domestic flights. Major rental car companies. Airport shuttles to Te Anau available ($60-80 NZD per person).
• Invercargill Airport (IVC): About 2 hours away. Domestic flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Rental cars available. Limited shuttle services.
• Manapouri Airport: Small airfield 20 minutes south of Te Anau. Used for scenic flights and charter 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 centre. Supermarket for supplies.

Weather & Climate

Current Weather

7-Day Te Anau Forecast

Official SH94 Milford Road Status

DOC Track, Hut & Campsite Alerts

Seasonal Overview

Summer (December-February): Average temperatures 10-25°C, though it can get hotter at times and the sun is strong here — it can feel even warmer than the thermometer says. 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 colours in beech forests (late March-April). Increasing rainfall. Shorter days. Pack warm layers and rain gear.

Winter (June-August): Average temperatures -2 to 12°C. Coldest season with frequent frosts and temperatures do drop below zero at times. 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.

Weather in Fiordland can be unpredictable at any time of year. You can get four seasons in one day, so always be prepared.

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 any trip into the backcountry — better to have it and not need it

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), though on a hot summer day it can be nice for a swim. 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: 196 Milford Road, (03) 249 7600. Open Monday-Thursday 9am-1pm, Friday 9am-12pm (closed public holidays). For emergencies dial 111.

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. Hours can change depending on the season — check their website or call ahead.

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. Hours change depending on the season — check the DOC website or call ahead.

Banking & Money

Banks: Te Anau has two banks — a BNZ at 34 Town Centre, and a Kiwibank inside Paper Plus at 100 Town Centre. There is no ANZ in Te Anau.

ATMs: Several ATMs around the town centre. Withdraw cash before heading to Milford Sound or remote areas.

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

EFTPOS: Widely accepted everywhere. I don't know of any business in Te Anau that won't take EFTPOS.

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. Coverage along the Milford Road has improved in recent years including in Milford Sound itself, but it's still patchy in places. 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 at 70 Town Centre, (03) 249 9268. Open weekdays, reduced hours on weekends. Closed public holidays.

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

Fuel Stations

Te Anau has a few fuel options. The Caltex is the only manned station in town — the rest are self-service. All offer petrol and diesel and accept credit cards. Prices are higher than major cities. There is also a self-service station at Milford Sound but it frequently runs out, so always fill up in Te Anau before heading out on the Milford Road.

Supermarkets & Supplies

Fresh Choice: The big supermarket with a full range of groceries. Hours change between summer and winter.

Four Square: The little supermarket — handy for quick top-ups. Hours change between summer and winter.

Prices are what you'd expect in a smaller tourist and remote town — more expensive than in a larger city. Stock up in Queenstown or Invercargill if you're on a tight budget.

Outdoor Gear: There are two main outdoor shops — Outside Sports and Fiordland Frontier Supplies. Because of our location most shops sell some outdoor gear too, and plenty of the tourist shops sell nice warm gear. From a local perspective those two are the go-to.

There are plenty of shops around for a small town. The town centre is small enough to easily walk, so best to just go for a wander and have a look.

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

Mechanics: Three mechanics in town — TSSL Te Anau, TAS Te Anau, and the Caltex workshop.

Fuel: The Caltex is the only manned petrol station in town. There are several self-service options around including the RD Petroleum station in the town centre, the Mobil in the town centre, and McKeown's on Sandy Brown Road. All accept credit cards. Prices are higher than major cities. Always fill up before heading to Milford Sound.

Car Wash: There are no public car washes in Te Anau.

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

There is only one car rental company in Te Anau, so book ahead especially in peak season. Most visitors rent from Queenstown Airport which has a much wider selection. Having your own vehicle provides the most 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

New Zealand's official languages are Te Reo Māori and New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL). English is the most widely spoken language day-to-day. You'll encounter many Māori place names throughout Fiordland.

Electricity

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

Tipping

Tipping is not expected in New Zealand, but if you wish to you can and I'm sure they'll appreciate it.

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 isn't banned outright but there are liquor ban areas — check the Southland District Council website for details.

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)
• King'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
• 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 — fiordland.org.nz
• DOC Visitor Centre: (03) 249 7924 — doc.govt.nz
• Te Anau Medical Centre: (03) 249 7007
• Te Anau Pharmacy: (03) 249 9268
• Te Anau Police: (03) 249 7600
• Milford Road Hotline: 0800 444 449
• Weather Forecast: MetService Te Anau
• NZTA Road Conditions: NZTA Highway Conditions
• Avalanche Advisory: avalanche.net.nz (winter months)