Category: Discover

Where to Eat in Te Anau?

 

Te Anau might be small, but its culinary offerings are mighty. Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for new flavors or a traveler seeking comfort in familiar dishes, Te Anau’s eateries promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey. 

So pack your appetite and dive into the delightful dining scene that awaits in this picturesque town!

1. The Redcliff Café

Step into The Redcliff Café, where rustic charm meets gourmet dining. Known for its cozy atmosphere and a menu that highlights local produce, this eatery is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Savor their famous venison dishes, which perfectly capture the essence of Fiordland’s wild flavors.

2. Sandfly Café

For a more laid-back vibe, Sandfly Café is your go-to spot. This trendy café is renowned for its hearty breakfasts and freshly baked pastries. Whether you’re craving a creamy flat white or a mouthwatering blueberry muffin, Sandfly Café won’t disappoint.

3. Ditto

Ditto is a must-visit dining destination in Te Anau, renowned for its innovative menu and intimate atmosphere. The restaurant offers a delightful array of dishes that blend local ingredients with international flavors, ensuring a unique culinary experience. Guests often praise the attentive service and the beautifully presented meals, which include options for both meat lovers and vegetarians. The cozy setting makes Ditto perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. With its commitment to quality and creativity, Ditto promises a memorable dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.

4. Miles Better Pies

No trip to Te Anau is complete without a stop at Miles Better Pies. Famous for their handmade pies, this iconic spot offers a variety of flavors that cater to every palate. From classic steak and cheese to gourmet lamb and mint, each bite promises a taste of New Zealand comfort food at its finest.

5. The Ranch Bar & Grill

For those who prefer a more casual dining experience, The Ranch Bar & Grill offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Known for their succulent steaks and hearty burgers, this spot is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the great outdoors.

6. Bailiez Cafe

Bailiez Cafe is a beloved spot in Te Anau, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere perfect for a relaxing meal. Known for its hearty breakfasts and delicious coffee, the cafe provides a menu filled with diverse options, from classic eggs benedict to fresh pastries. Visitors frequently commend the friendly staff and the cozy ambiance, making it an ideal place to start your day or unwind after exploring the area. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely brunch, Bailiez Cafe delivers a satisfying and cheerful dining experience.

7. The Fat Duck

The Fat Duck in Te Anau is celebrated for its warm and inviting atmosphere, offering a delightful dining experience in the heart of Fiordland. Known for its creative and flavorful dishes, the restaurant features a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes. Guests frequently praise the exceptional service and the use of fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re indulging in their expertly crafted seafood or savoring a tender steak, The Fat Duck promises a memorable meal for both locals and visitors alike.

8. La Toscana

La Toscana brings the authentic flavors of Italy to Te Anau, offering a charming and cozy dining experience. Renowned for its traditional Italian dishes, the restaurant features a menu rich with options like wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas. Guests often commend the friendly service and the warm, welcoming ambiance. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Margherita or a hearty lasagna, La Toscana delivers a delightful taste of Italy that keeps both locals and visitors coming back for more.

9. Radhas Indian Restaurant & Takeaway

Radhas Indian Restaurant & Takeaway offers a vibrant and authentic Indian dining experience in the heart of Te Anau. Known for its rich and aromatic dishes, the restaurant presents a menu filled with classic Indian favorites, from butter chicken to spicy vindaloos. Guests frequently praise the generous portions and the depth of flavor in each dish. The welcoming staff and cozy atmosphere make it a great spot for both dining in and takeaway. Whether you’re a fan of mild curries or prefer something with a kick, Radhas provides a satisfying culinary journey for all spice levels.

10. Thai Anau Restaurant & Takeaway

Thai Anau Restaurant & Takeaway brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand to the heart of Te Anau. Known for its authentic and delicious Thai cuisine, the restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring favorites like pad thai, green curry, and fresh spring rolls. Diners often highlight the friendly service and the restaurant’s ability to cater to different spice preferences. With its cozy setting and flavorful dishes, Thai Anau is an excellent choice for anyone craving a taste of Thailand, whether dining in or taking away. Experience the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy in every bite.

11. Mizu Japanese Fusion

Mizu Japanese Fusion, located at 6 The Lane, Te Anau, offers an exquisite blend of traditional Japanese cuisine and modern fusion. With a relaxed, cherry-blossom-themed ambiance, it accommodates up to 130 guests, making it perfect for intimate dinners or events. The menu features fresh seafood, including sushi, sashimi, and local specialties like Milford Sound crayfish.

 

Discover the Magic of Te Anau & Beyond!

Discover the magic of Te Anau and beyond! This quaint town situated in the heart of Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Te Anau offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking to kayaking to simply exploring the town’s charming shops and restaurants. But the fun doesn’t stop there – venture beyond Te Anau to uncover even more enchanting wonders. Let’s explore!

Explore the Enchanting Town of Te Anau

Te Anau is a picturesque town nestled on the shores of the stunning Lake Te Anau. The town offers a variety of activities, from guided nature walks to jet boat tours of the lake. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike the Kepler Track – one of New Zealand’s Great Walks – and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. After a busy day exploring, take some time to relax in one of the town’s cozy cafes or restaurants, where you can indulge in local delicacies and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.

One of the town’s highlights is the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a fascinating underground world filled with thousands of tiny glowing creatures. Take a guided tour through the caves and marvel at the unique natural wonder. For a more thrilling adventure, take a helicopter ride over Te Anau and witness the beauty of Fiordland National Park from above.

Unveil the Wonders Hidden Beyond Te Anau!

Venture beyond Te Anau to uncover more of Fiordland’s hidden gems. Take a scenic drive along the Milford Road, where you’ll encounter rugged landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas. Stop off at the Mirror Lakes and see the reflection of the surrounding mountains in the calm waters.

Head to Doubtful Sound, a remote fjord that’s accessible only by boat. Take a cruise and witness the dramatic scenery of towering cliffs, pristine waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. You might even spot dolphins or penguins along the way.

For the ultimate adventure, take a multi-day hike on the Milford Track, known as one of the world’s most beautiful walks. Traverse through ancient rainforests, over alpine passes, and past glacial lakes. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

There’s no denying the magic of Te Anau and beyond. From the town’s charming shops and restaurants to Fiordland’s stunning natural wonders, there’s something for every traveler. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the enchantment of New Zealand’s South Island.

So what are you waiting for? Click HERE and book your next magical Te Anau holiday home with us today.

Peaceful and Serene: Doubtful Sound

Doubtful Sound is a breathtaking fiord located in Fiordland National Park on the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It is a place of immense natural beauty that has captivated travelers and explorers for centuries. The fiord stretches for over 40 kilometers and is surrounded by steep, lush cliffs that rise up to 1,200 meters above sea level.

The name “Doubtful Sound” is derived from the fact that the sound was difficult to navigate for early European explorers. Captain James Cook himself named the sound in 1770 when he expressed doubts about the possibility of safely navigating the entrance to the sound. As a result, the fiord was largely unexplored and unknown to the outside world until the mid-19th century.

Today, Doubtful Sound is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand. Visitors come from all over the world to experience the incredible natural beauty of this remote wilderness area. The fiord is home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including seals, dolphins, penguins, and a variety of bird species. The waters of Doubtful Sound are also home to a diverse range of fish, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.

One of the best ways to experience Doubtful Sound is by taking a cruise. Several tour operators offer day trips and overnight cruises that take visitors deep into the heart of the fiord. These cruises allow visitors to explore the sound’s numerous hidden coves and waterfalls, as well as offering the opportunity to view wildlife up close. The fiord’s quiet waters also make it a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, allowing visitors to explore the area’s more secluded corners at their own pace.

Despite its popularity, Doubtful Sound remains a largely untouched wilderness area. The fiord is protected by strict conservation laws that help to ensure its natural beauty remains intact for future generations to enjoy. Visitors are encouraged to respect the area’s fragile ecosystem by minimizing their impact on the environment and by adhering to strict Leave No Trace principles.

Doubtful Sound is a natural wonder that deserves its place among New Zealand’s top tourist destinations. Its breathtaking beauty, combined with its remoteness and sense of isolation, make it a truly unique place to visit. Whether you choose to explore the fiord by boat, kayak, or foot, you are sure to be awed by the sheer grandeur of this incredible wilderness area.

Nature’s Eighth Wonder of The World- The Milford Sound

Milford Sound – the Eighth Wonder of the World
Tucked away in the southwestern corner of New Zealand’s South Island lies a natural gem – Milford Sound.

This stunning fjord is often called the Eighth Wonder of the World, and once you see it for yourself, you’ll understand why.

Set against the backdrop of towering cliff faces and cascading waterfalls, the sound is a breathtaking spectacle that’s bound to leave you spellbound.

Getting to Milford Sound is an experience in itself. The closest town is Te Anau, and the drive from there takes around two hours, winding through incredible mountain scenery and past glacial lakes.

But while the journey is long, it’s worth it for the stunning views along the way.

Upon arriving at Milford Sound, you’ll find yourself in a world of towering peaks and pristine wilderness. The sound itself is a deep fiord – over 500 meters deep in some places – that stretches for around sixteen kilometers from the Tasman Sea.

The water is calm and still, reflecting the towering cliffs that surround it and creating a peaceful atmosphere that’s impossible to resist.

But don’t let the calm waters fool you – there’s plenty of activity happening here.

Milford Sound is home to a remarkable array of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and penguins, all of which can be seen from boats that tour the sound.

The boat tour is a must-do activity as it allows you to get up close and personal with the sound. The boats take you right to the center of the fiord, and you can appreciate the grandeur of the towering peaks and cascading waterfalls.

One of the sound’s most famous waterfalls is Mitre Peak, which towers over the bay at a height of 1,692 meters. Its distinctive shape has made it one of the most photographed peaks in the world.

Another famous attraction is Stirling Falls, which is three times the height of Niagara Falls.

For those who want to explore the sound at their leisure, there are plenty of hiking trails in the area that lead to picturesque viewpoints.

The Milford Track is one of the most famous walks in the world and is a four-day, three-night trek through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful wilderness.

Milford Sound is a true spectacle, a natural wonder that will leave you in awe. There’s no other place in New Zealand that can match its breathtaking beauty, so if you’re planning a trip to the land of the long white cloud, make sure to include Milford Sound in your itinerary. You’ll never forget the experience of standing in front of this eighth wonder of the world.

Shedding Light On The Te Anau Glow Worm Caves.

The Te Anau Glow Worm Caves are a must-visit attraction when in New Zealand. The caves are located in Te Anau, a small town in the South Island, and offer a unique experience for visitors.

These caves were formed thousands of years ago, and they have become a popular tourist attraction because of the glow worms that inhabit them. The unique sight of hundreds of tiny blue lights illuminating the caves is breathtaking and fascinating, making it a must-visit attraction for those who wish to explore the natural beauty of New Zealand.

Visitors can book tours that take them through the caves with knowledgeable guides.

The tours are well-organized and cater to visitors of all ages, making them an ideal experience for families, couples, and solo travelers.

As visitors venture through the caves, they will learn about the history of the caves and the ecosystem that has formed within them.

The knowledgeable guides will share fascinating stories about the glow worms and their role in the ecosystem.

Visitors will also learn about the geology of the caves and how they were formed.

The highlight of the tour is when the visitors will stop at a dark area within the caves, and the only light comes from the glow worms.

The sight is mesmerizing, with hundreds of tiny blue lights hanging from the cave ceiling. The glow worms’ soft blue light dancing in the darkness creates a magical ambiance, making the visitors feel like they are in a different world.

The Te Anau Glow Worm Caves are open all year round, but it is essential to book a tour in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee a spot.

Visitors should also dress warmly as the caves can be cold, and comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

In conclusion, the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves are a fascinating attraction that truly shows the natural wonders of New Zealand. Visiting the caves is an experience that will be cherished forever, and it is an excellent opportunity to learn about the unique ecosystem that has formed within them. Anyone visiting New Zealand must add this attraction to their bucket list.

Discover the natural wonders of beautiful Fiordland

Fiordland, located on the southwestern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, is one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. This region is home to some of the most spectacular landscapes and wildlife in New Zealand, and boasts an array of natural wonders that are sure to leave visitors in awe. Here, we will explore some of the most incredible natural wonders of Fiordland.

1. Milford Sound: One of the most popular destinations in Fiordland, Milford Sound is a breathtaking fiord that stretches over 15 kilometers in length. This natural wonder is surrounded by towering cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and a rich array of flora and fauna. Visitors can take a cruise along the sound to take in the stunning scenery, or explore the area on foot along one of the many hiking trails.

2. Doubtful Sound: Another incredible fiord in Fiordland is Doubtful Sound. This fiord is located in a remote part of the region, and as a result, is one of the most pristine and untouched natural wonders in New Zealand. Visitors to Doubtful Sound can take a boat tour, kayak, or even dive in the waters to explore the incredible marine life that calls this place home.

3. Milford Track is one of the most famous hiking trails in New Zealand, and for good reason. This 53.5-kilometer trail takes hikers through some of the most stunning landscapes in Fiordland, including rainforests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain ranges. Along the way, hikers can take in the incredible natural wonders of the region, including stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear streams.

4. Te Anau Glowworm Caves: Located near the town of Te Anau, the Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a natural wonder unlike any other. These caves are home to thousands of tiny glowworms, which create a stunning display of light that is truly breathtaking to behold. Visitors to the caves can take a guided tour to learn more about these incredible creatures and the unique ecosystem they inhabit.

5. Fiordland National Park: Finally, no discussion of the natural wonders of Fiordland would be complete without mentioning Fiordland National Park. This massive park covers over 1.2 million hectares of land, and is home to some of the most diverse and stunning landscapes in the world. From soaring mountain ranges to deep fiords, ancient rainforests to rolling meadows, Fiordland National Park truly has it all.

A Journey Through The Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a world-renowned tourist destination located in the southwestern part of New Zealand’s South Island. It is home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world, including deep fjords, stunning waterfalls, lush rainforests, and snow-capped mountains. The park attracts thousands of tourists every year who come to experience its unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

The park covers an area of over 1.2 million hectares and is home to 14 fiords, including Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, which are two of the most popular attractions in the park. Milford Sound is perhaps the most well-known of the fiords and is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places on earth. Visitors to Milford Sound can take a boat cruise to experience the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and stunning natural beauty of the area.

Doubtful Sound, on the other hand, is a more remote and secluded fiord that offers a more intimate and tranquil experience. Visitors to Doubtful Sound can take a boat cruise, kayak, or hike through the surrounding rainforest to experience the peace and serenity of the area.

In addition to the fiords, Fiordland National Park is also home to several other natural wonders, including the Kepler Track, which is a 60-kilometer walking track that takes visitors through the heart of the park’s wilderness. The track passes through mountain ranges, rainforests, and alpine meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Another popular attraction in the park is the Te Anau Caves, which are located on the western shores of Lake Te Anau. The caves are a system of underground limestone caves that can be explored by boat or on foot. Visitors can marvel at the stunning rock formations, underground waterfalls, and bioluminescent glowworms that inhabit the caves.

Fiordland National Park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the endangered takahe, which is a flightless bird that is only found in New Zealand. Visitors to the park can also spot other native birds such as the kea, the kaka, and the tui, as well as marine mammals such as dolphins, seals, and whales.

The Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and outdoor adventure. Its stunning natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique blend of outdoor activities make it a perfect destination for tourists looking for a one-of-a-kind experience. So, whether you’re looking to explore the depths of a fiord, hike through a rainforest, or marvel at the beauty of a glowworm cave, Fiordland National Park is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime

All about Te Anau

Te Anau is a small town located in the southwestern region of New Zealand’s South Island. It is located on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in the South Island, and is the gateway to the Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The town of Te Anau serves as the starting point for many tourists who come to explore the Fiordland National Park, which is renowned for its stunning scenery, pristine lakes, and magnificent fiords. The Fiordland National Park covers an area of over 12,500 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is best known for its fiords, which were formed during the last ice age when glaciers carved deep valleys into the surrounding mountains. The most famous of these fiords is Milford Sound, which is often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world. However, Te Anau is the gateway to the equally stunning Doubtful Sound, which is less crowded and offers a more tranquil experience.

To reach Doubtful Sound, visitors must take a boat across Lake Manapouri and then a bus over Wilmot Pass, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The journey is an adventure in itself and is well worth the effort. Once visitors arrive at Doubtful Sound, they can take a cruise on the fiord and enjoy the stunning scenery, which includes waterfalls, towering cliffs, and snow-capped peaks. The sound is also home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, seals, and penguins.

In addition to its stunning fiords, the Fiordland National Park is also home to a number of other attractions, including the Milford Track, one of the most famous walks in the world. The track is a four-day walk that takes visitors through some of the most spectacular scenery in the park, including pristine lakes, mountain passes, and waterfalls. It is an unforgettable experience that is not to be missed.

Another popular attraction in the park is the Kepler Track, a three-day walk that takes visitors through some of the most beautiful forests in the park. The track offers stunning views of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains and is a great way to experience the park’s natural beauty up close.

Te Anau itself is a charming town that is well worth exploring. It has a range of restaurants, cafes, and shops, and is a great place to relax after a day of exploring the park. Visitors can also take a stroll along the lakefront or visit the Te Anau Wildlife Centre, which is home to a variety of native birds and animals.

In conclusion, Te Anau and the Fiordland National Park are a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure. The park’s stunning fiords, beautiful walks, and diverse wildlife make it one of the most spectacular places in the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or an action-packed adventure, Te Anau and the Fiordland National Park are sure to deliver an unforgettable experience.