Walking Tours Te Anau

Exploring Te Anau via Walking Tours

Welcome to Te Anau, a picturesque town nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau in New Zealand’s South Island. Known as the ‘Gateway to Fiordland’, Te Anau offers an array of stunning landscapes and unique experiences waiting to be discovered. Here are some tips for your walking tours around this magnificent town:

  1. Te Anau Town Centre Walk (Easy, 1-2 hours) Start your exploration by taking a leisurely stroll through the Te Anau town center. Admire the vibrant shops, galleries, and cafes that line the main street, while soaking in the lakeside views. Don’t forget to visit the Information Center for brochures and maps of the area.

  2. Te Anau Glowworm Caves Walk (Easy-Moderate, 1-2 hours) Although primarily a cave tour, there is a short walk from the visitor center to the entrance of the caves. The path follows the cascading crystal-clear waters of the Cascade Stream and offers glimpses of the native flora and fauna found in the area.

  3. Kepler Track (Moderate-Difficult, Multi-day hike) If you’re up for a challenge, embark on a multi-day hiking adventure along the Kepler Track. This 60 km (37 mi) circular track offers breathtaking views of Fiordland’s alpine landscapes, including forests, lakes, and mountains. Plan ahead and book your hut accommodations in advance!

  4. Lake Te Anau Waterfront Walkway (Easy, 2-3 hours) For a longer walk, follow the Lake Te Anau waterfront along the Control Gates Walkway. This picturesque route showcases stunning views of the lake and its surroundings, providing ample opportunities for photography.

  5. Te Anau Bird Sanctuary (Easy, 1-2 hours) Spend an afternoon at the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary, home to kiwi birds, takahe, weka, and other native New Zealand bird species. The sanctuary offers a guided night tour for viewing kiwi in their nocturnal habitat.

  6. Humbolt Forest Walk (Easy-Moderate, 1-2 hours) Explore the ancient beech forest of Humbolt Forest Reserve on this scenic walk. The trail leads you through the forest, offering glimpses of the nearby Lake Manapouri and the surrounding mountains. Keep your eyes peeled for native birdlife!

Enjoy your walking tours in Te Anau, and remember to respect the environment by taking only photographs and leaving no trace behind. Safe travels!