Road Trip to New Zealand, 25 January – 09 February 2025
Te Anau
Experience a thrilling jet boat ride across the River Shotover in Fiordland National Park. This high-adrenaline activity lasts about 3 hours, offering unmatc...
Located in the southwestern corner of New Zealand's South Island, this picturesque town serves as the gateway to the Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. It is a haven for nature lovers, offering a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with the serene lake of the same name on one side and the majestic Kepler and Murchison mountain ranges on the other.
The history of this place dates back to the Maori people, who used the area as a pathway to the greenstone fields on the West Coast. European settlers arrived in the 19th century, initially for hunting and later for tourism as the beauty of the region became known. Today, it is a bustling tourist hub, with a population that swells during the peak tourist season.
One of the highlights of this location is the Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country, with its towering peaks, deep fiords, and ancient rainforests. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the rare and endangered takahe bird.
Another must-see attraction is the Te Ana-au Caves, a network of limestone caves located on the western shore of the lake. The caves are known for their stunning glowworm displays, a sight that leaves visitors in awe. A boat ride across the lake is usually included in the tour, providing an opportunity to take in the breathtaking scenery.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, a stroll along the lakefront offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. The town itself has a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a taste of local cuisine and culture. The Fiordland Cinema, known for its screenings of the locally filmed movie 'Ata Whenua – Shadowland', is another popular attraction.
Whether it's exploring the rugged landscapes of the Fiordland National Park, marveling at the glowworms in the Te Ana-au Caves, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the lake, this town offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Its rich history and stunning natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand's South Island.
The history of this place dates back to the Maori people, who used the area as a pathway to the greenstone fields on the West Coast. European settlers arrived in the 19th century, initially for hunting and later for tourism as the beauty of the region became known. Today, it is a bustling tourist hub, with a population that swells during the peak tourist season.
One of the highlights of this location is the Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country, with its towering peaks, deep fiords, and ancient rainforests. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the rare and endangered takahe bird.
Another must-see attraction is the Te Ana-au Caves, a network of limestone caves located on the western shore of the lake. The caves are known for their stunning glowworm displays, a sight that leaves visitors in awe. A boat ride across the lake is usually included in the tour, providing an opportunity to take in the breathtaking scenery.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, a stroll along the lakefront offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. The town itself has a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a taste of local cuisine and culture. The Fiordland Cinema, known for its screenings of the locally filmed movie 'Ata Whenua – Shadowland', is another popular attraction.
Whether it's exploring the rugged landscapes of the Fiordland National Park, marveling at the glowworms in the Te Ana-au Caves, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the lake, this town offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Its rich history and stunning natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand's South Island.
