Local Info

Local Information

Te Anau is the Gateway to Fiordland National Park

Located on the shores of Lake Te Anau and at the gateway to Fiordland National Park, Te Anau is the ideal base for exploring the wild and not-so-wild landscapes of southern New Zealand. Covering more than 12,000 km², Fiordland is a land of towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and pristine rivers — all easily accessible from Te Anau, where you can experience some of the most dramatic scenery in the country.

There’s so much to see and do here, and the team at Red Tussock Motel are always happy to help. We can provide local advice and arrange sightseeing experiences across Fiordland, including scenic flights, glowworm caves, jet-boating, lake cruises, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound tours, farm visits, kayaking adventures, and more.

Te Anau

Lake Te Anau is New Zealand’s second-largest lake, set within the spectacular Fiordland National Park. The township boasts a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, offering a diverse selection of dining options — from Italian, Indian, and Thai cuisine to local specialties such as lamb, lobster, and venison.
While you’re here, catch Ata Whenua and Deer Wars at the Fiordland Cinema — two stunning documentaries about the region. Just a 10-minute walk from Red Tussock Motel, Ivon Wilson Park is a favourite spot for families, with a small lake for children’s fishing, a disc golf course, and wide open spaces ideal for gatherings or even weddings.
For those who love the outdoors, the recently opened Lake 2 Lake cycle track offers a scenic, well-formed route between Te Anau and Manapouri. Bikes are available to hire from several outlets in town, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is world-renowned for its dramatic scenery and is one of New Zealand’s must-visit destinations. Visitors can experience its towering cliffs and waterfalls by joining a scenic cruise, taking an overnight voyage, or exploring by kayak. Some tours combine boat trips with short hikes, offering the best of both land and water. Contact us and we’ll help you find the option that best suits your needs.

The Māori name for Milford Sound is Piopiotahi, meaning “a single piopio” — a reference to the now extinct native bird once found in New Zealand.

Doubtful Sound

Doubtful Sound is one of Fiordland’s most captivating destinations, offering a chance to experience the untouched south-west of New Zealand. Known to Māori as Patea, meaning “the place of silence”, its deep, dark waters and forest-clad mountains create an atmosphere of solitude and reflection unlike anywhere else.

As there is no direct road access, the only way to reach Doubtful Sound is on a guided tour from Te Anau or Manapouri. Options include scenic day cruises, overnight adventures, or kayaking tours — each offering a unique way to immerse yourself in this remote wilderness.

Day Walks

There are a variety of walks available in the vicinity of Te Anau to suit all fitness levels. Here are a few of our favourites that can be accessed within 1 hour drive from Te Anau:

Red Tussock Motel to the Kepler Track/Control Gates (1.5 hours return).
Control Gates to: Dock Bay (1 hour return), Brod Bay (3 hours return) or Mount Mount Luxmore (8-10 hours return). Water Taxi also available from Te Anau to Brod Bay.
Rainbow Reach to Moturau Hut or Shallow Bay Hut (3.5 hours return)
Lake Mistletoe (45 minutes return)
Lake Gunn Nature Walk (45 minutes return)
Key Summit (3 hours return)
Manapouri Tracks: Take a boat across Pearl Harbour to the Jetty. Circle Track (3.5 hours return), Jetty to Back Valley Hut (4-5 hours return), Jetty to Hope Arm (4-6 hours return).

NOTE: Drive time to start of tracks not included, times stated are walking times only. Your safety is your responsibility; be prepared for the conditions. Check out the Department of Conservation (DOC) brochure for more information, and visit the Te Anau DOC office before departure to get the latest track conditions.