Te Anau is the easy going gateway to Fiordland, a lakeside town where the queue for ice cream is longer than the queue for anything else. It is also the launch pad for some proper family adventures without needing a Milford Sound size day on the itinerary. Glowworm caves after dark, a jet boat blast down the Waiau River, a gentle cruise and bush walk, or a horse trek with mountain views, there is a pace here to suit every member of the family.
Glowworm caves after dark
The Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour starts with a cruise across Lake Te Anau, then a short walk into a cave system that has been quietly glowing for thousands of years. Guides point out eels and trout in the rushing water before you climb into small boats and drift through total darkness lit only by hundreds of glow worms. One recent reviewer called it a great adventure for all ages and fitness levels, which makes it an easy pick for families with a mixed age range in tow.
A scenic cruise and forest walk
The Scenic Cruise and Guided Walk Through Te Anau is a 3 hour outing across South Fiord followed by a guided walk through ancient native forest, with canapes and refreshments served along the way and a relaxed sail back to Te Anau. It is rated a moderate fitness and intensity level, so it suits families with older kids or teens happy to stretch their legs rather than toddlers wanting a quick lap.
Jet boat thrills on the Waiau River
The Pure Wilderness Jet Boat Ride mixes a fast paced ride down the Waiau River with a guided nature walk and a beach landing, passing scenery used in Lord of the Rings along the way. It is the one to book if your crew wants a genuine adrenaline hit alongside the scenery, with life jackets and spray coats provided so everyone stays dry and warm.
Horse trekking with a view
The Horse Riding Tour in Te Anau heads out from the stable yard through open fields to a high point over the Te Anau basin, with a rest stop for light refreshments while you take in the mountains and lake below. Horses of all temperaments are matched to riders of all experience levels, so first timers in the family are just as welcome as confident riders.
Frequently asked questions
Which Te Anau activity suits younger kids best?
The Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour is the gentlest option, a scenic cruise and a short walk with a boat ride through the caves, described by past visitors as suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Is the scenic cruise and guided walk suitable for young children?
It is rated a moderate fitness and intensity level with a proper bush walk involved, so it is better suited to older kids and teens than very young children or prams.
Do we need previous experience for the horse trek?
No. Horses of all temperaments are available and beginners are welcome, with calm horses matched to riders who have never ridden before.
What should we bring on the jet boat ride?
Life jackets and spray coats are provided, along with cold weather gear when needed, so just dress for the weather and bring a warm layer for the ride.
How far is Te Anau from Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound?
Te Anau is the main departure town for both fiords, with Milford Sound around a 2 hour drive and Doubtful Sound reached via a boat and coach transfer from nearby Manapouri.
Local tip: base yourselves in Te Anau for a couple of nights rather than a quick drive through, it gives you time for a fiord day trip plus one or two of the town based activities above without rushing.
Book your Te Anau family activities above and make the most of your time in Fiordland.