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Visitor Information
Everything you need to know about visiting Te Anau and Fiordland
Welcome to Te Anau
Te Anau is a picturesque lakeside town nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau, New Zealand's second-largest lake. As the gateway to Fiordland National Park, Te Anau offers visitors a perfect base to explore some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world.
Fiordland National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage area, renowned for its dramatic fiords, ancient rainforests, and stunning alpine scenery. The park is home to three of New Zealand's Great Walks: the Kepler, Milford, and Routeburn Tracks, as well as the iconic Milford Sound/Piopiotahi and Doubtful Sound/Patea.
Whether you're planning a day trip to Milford Sound, embarking on a multi-day hike, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings of Lake Te Anau, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to this remarkable corner of New Zealand.
Quick Facts
- Population: Approximately 2,000 residents
- Location: 171 km southwest of Queenstown, 153 km from Invercargill
- Altitude: 210 meters above sea level
- Lake Te Anau: 344 km² surface area, 417m deep at its deepest point
- Fiordland National Park: 1.2 million hectares, New Zealand's largest national park
Te Anau Area Map
Explore key locations in and around Te Anau. Click on markers for more information.
Local Services
Te Anau offers a range of services to ensure your visit is comfortable and convenient.
Fuel & EV Charging
- BP Te Anau - 94 Town Centre, 24/7
- Mobil Te Anau - 2 Milford Crescent, 24/7
- EV Charging Station - Town Centre carpark, 24/7 access
Fill up in Te Anau before heading to Milford Sound as there are no fuel stations along Milford Road.
Supermarkets & Food
- Fresh Choice Te Anau - 5 Town Centre, 7am-9pm
- Four Square - 63 Town Centre, 7:30am-8:30pm
- Te Anau Night 'n Day - 19 Town Centre, 6am-10pm
Stock up on supplies before heading into Fiordland National Park.
Healthcare
- Fiordland Medical Practice - 26 Pop Andrew Drive, Mon-Fri 8:30am-5pm
- Te Anau Pharmacy - 67 Town Centre, Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:30pm, Sat 9am-1pm
- Emergency: Dial 111
For after-hours medical care, contact Healthline: 0800 611 116
Banking & ATMs
- BNZ ATM - 67 Town Centre
- Westpac ATM - 74 Town Centre
- ANZ ATM - 30 Town Centre
Most businesses accept major credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for remote areas.
Internet & Connectivity
- Free WiFi - Te Anau Library and various cafes
- Mobile Coverage - Good in Te Anau, limited on Milford Road
- Internet Cafe - 67 Town Centre
Download maps and information before heading into remote areas as mobile coverage is limited.
Police & Emergency
- Te Anau Police Station - 5 Luxmore Drive
- Emergency Services: Dial 111
- Search & Rescue: Contact via Police
Always inform someone of your plans when heading into the backcountry.
How to Get Here
Te Anau is well-connected to major South Island destinations by road, with several transport options available.
Seasonal Guide to Te Anau
Each season in Fiordland offers a unique experience. Here's what to expect throughout the year.
Summer (Dec-Feb)
- Average temperatures: 10-22°C (50-72°F)
- Longest daylight hours (up to 16 hours)
- Peak tourist season with busiest trails
- All activities and facilities operating
- Advance bookings essential
- Great for hiking and water activities
Autumn (Mar-May)
- Average temperatures: 6-18°C (43-64°F)
- Beautiful fall colors in April-May
- Fewer crowds after Easter
- More accommodation availability
- Stable weather patterns
- Great for photography and hiking
Winter (Jun-Aug)
- Average temperatures: 1-10°C (34-50°F)
- Snow on mountains and occasionally in town
- Quietest season with lowest prices
- Some facilities have reduced hours
- Milford Road may close due to avalanche risk
- Great for snow photography and stargazing
Spring (Sep-Nov)
- Average temperatures: 6-17°C (43-63°F)
- Wildflowers and waterfalls at their best
- Newborn wildlife
- Gradually increasing visitor numbers
- Variable weather conditions
- Great for nature photography and birdwatching
Te Anau & Fiordland Gallery
Explore the stunning landscapes and experiences awaiting you in Fiordland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Te Anau and Fiordland?
The summer months (December to February) offer the warmest and most stable weather, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. However, this is also the busiest period.
Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful seasonal colors.
Winter (June to August) can be cold with snow on the mountains, but offers a unique perspective of Fiordland with fewer visitors. Some tracks may be closed or require alpine skills during winter.
How long should I stay in Te Anau?
We recommend at least 2-3 nights to experience the highlights of the region. This allows time for:
- A day trip to Milford Sound
- Exploring Te Anau and the lake
- A short walk on one of the Great Walks
If you plan to do any of the multi-day Great Walks or explore Doubtful Sound, add additional days accordingly.
Do I need to book activities in advance?
Yes, especially during the peak summer season (December-February). Milford Sound cruises, overnight cruises, and guided activities often book out weeks in advance.
For the Great Walks (Kepler, Milford, and Routeburn Tracks), hut bookings are essential and typically open in May for the following season. These can fill up within hours for peak dates.
Accommodation in Te Anau also books out during summer, so advance reservations are strongly recommended.
What should I pack for visiting Fiordland?
Fiordland is one of the wettest places in New Zealand, receiving up to 7 meters of rainfall annually. Even in summer, be prepared for all weather conditions:
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Warm layers (merino or synthetic)
- Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Insect repellent for sandflies
- Camera with extra batteries
- Water bottle
- Day pack
Is there mobile phone coverage in Fiordland?
Mobile coverage is good in Te Anau township but becomes limited or non-existent as you venture into Fiordland National Park.
Along the Milford Road (SH94), coverage is patchy with some reception at key stops like Knobs Flat and The Divide.
At Milford Sound, there is limited mobile coverage near the visitor terminal.
On the Great Walks and in backcountry areas, do not expect any mobile coverage. Consider hiring a personal locator beacon (PLB) for emergency communication.
Can I freedom camp in Te Anau and Fiordland?
Freedom camping is restricted in the Te Anau township and along the Milford Road. You must use designated campsites or accommodation.
Self-contained vehicles (with toilet facilities) have more options but must follow local regulations.
The Department of Conservation (DOC) operates several campsites in the region that require booking during peak season.
Heavy fines apply for illegal camping. Check the Southland District Council website for current freedom camping rules.