Family-friendly activities in Te Anau

Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland’s natural wonders, but it’s also an ideal destination for families looking for fun, hands-on experiences. From Fiordland on your doorstep to Kiwi-style farm tours, here’s why Te Anau should be on your family travel list.

Why Te Anau is perfect for families

Nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau, this charming town offers a more relaxed pace compared to Queenstown. Te Anau is all about embracing the outdoors, with its many walking tracks, playgrounds, and chances for wildlife encounters. It’s convenient location makes Te Anau the perfect base for families in search of grand adventures in Fiordland’s wilderness or simple explorations in a safe and friendly town.

The Te Anau Farm Tour – A Kiwi experience kids will love

One of the most memorable family activities in Te Anau is a visit to Woodstone Farm. Part of the Coach, Farm Tour & Milford Sound Nature Cruise experience, this epic day out takes you behind the scenes of a working New Zealand farm. Watch as the farmer shears sheep and enjoy the clever farm dogs during a herding demonstration. Kids will love meeting friendly animals–from woolly sheep to curious alpacas–many of whom are friendly enough for a pat.

The tour finishes with a delicious morning tea and a taste of genuine Kiwi hospitality. More than a tour, this is a chance to connect with locals and discover the traditions of rural life in Aotearoa.

Other family-friendly highlights in Te Anau

Lake Te Anau Walks:  There are several easy walking tracks running along the shore of Lake Te Anau. The main, easy option is the Te Anau Lakefront Track, while the Kepler Track and the Lake2Lake Trail also offer sections along the lake’s edge.

Jetboat the Waiau River and Lake Manapouri: For thrills, head out on the jetboat with Fiordland Jet for a high-speed ride along the Waiau River and onto beautiful Lake Manapouri, which includes a short bush walk. Can be done as a jetboat combo with Southern Discoveries’ Milford Sound Cruise.

Wildlife: The Punanga Manu of Te Anau/Te Anau Bird Sanctuary offers up-close encounters with some of New Zealand’s rarest feathered residents, including the remarkable takahē, a species that was presumed extinct until famously rediscovered in 1948.

Horse Trekking: Westray Horse Treks caters to all experience levels, from beginners to experienced riders, with different trek options available depending on the season and your preference. Choose gentle treks through scenic farmland and lakeside trails – perfect for beginners.

Picnic at Ivon Wilson Park: A peaceful spot with open spaces, short bush walks, and a duck pond for little explorers.

Fiordland Cinema: Fiordland Cinema is a delightful, boutique cinema in Te Anau with a family-friendly vibe. This cosy venue offers plush, premium seating and a full bar service, making it the perfect spot for kids and adults to relax and enjoy the latest films together after a day of adventure

Plan your next family adventure in Te Anau

Whether your family is drawn to wild places, eager for close-up wildlife encounters, or simply keen to slow down and soak in the beauty of Te Anau, you’ll find plenty here to keep all ages happy. Make your next holiday one to remember with the magic and wonder this special corner of New Zealand has to offer.

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