Are you the type that doesn’t like to sit around on your holiday? Fiordland is a veritable playground for those that love to get themselves into the outdoors. Bring your bikes, tramping boots, fishing rods, kayaks, and paddleboards with you to make the most of the lakes, rivers, and mountains in the area. Here are a few other activities that you can do around Te Anau & Fiordland that will keep you moving while checking out new places on your trip.

There is nothing better than the feeling of achievement when you reach your destination at the top of a mountain and drink in the fresh air and spectacular views.

If biking is your thing, then the Lake2Lake Cycle Trail will keep you busy for the day. Hire bikes from Wild Rides in Te Anau town centre and take a day trip to the picturesque village of Manapouri. The Lake2Lake trail is approximately 28 kilometres each way on a purpose-built bike track. The track begins at the Te Anau Department of Conservation office and follows alongside the Waiau River to Balloon Loop. Here, there is a section of road riding through to Manapouri, then duck back into the cycle trail at Supply Bay and finish cycling alongside Lake Manapouri to the township. The beauty of this trail is that you can enter and exit the trail at several points to create a loop of any distance from 5km to 56 kilometres. Stop along the way to look for trout in the river, or take your fishing rod with you! (fishing license required). When in Manapouri, stop for lunch or a drink at The Church Café to recharge before returning to Te Anau.

Take a Tour

Want to take a tour of Milford Sound, but don’t like the idea of sitting still all day? Join a tour with Rosco’s Milford Kayaks and experience Milford Sound by Sea Kayak. There are a range of departures that vary from 3km to 18km of kayaking – so you can choose a tour to suit your ability and fitness levels. See If you are self-driving to Milford Sound, there are many places to stop along the way to explore.

Take a walk from the Divide Carpark to Key Summit on the Routeburn Track. This is a 3-hour walk (return) and you will be rewarded with spectacular views from the Summit on a clear day.

For more of a challenge, the Lake Marian walk is also 3 hours return, but the track terrain is more difficult. You will feel all that effort was worth it when you are greeted by picturesque Lake Marian positioned in a hanging valley surrounded by rugged glacially carved mountains. Check out the Department of Conservation website for other tramping options in Fiordland

Experience local farm life while either Horse Trekking or Quad Biking at Westray Horse Treks & Quad Tours. You can choose your preferred mode of transport, with legs or wheels! Both horse trekking and quad-biking tours are suitable for novices up to experienced riders as safety briefings and instructions will be given by your guides. Enjoy incredible views as you ride through farmland with the wind in your hair.

Feel like watching some action, rather than being part of it? Visit Fiordland Cinema and watch one of their exclusive short movies. See Fiordland on Film, Ata Whenua – Shadowland, or their new release - Deer Wars, which showcases the heyday of live deer recovery by helicopter in Fiordland. New Releases are also shown at the cinema throughout the week.

Time to Eat

The Bao Now Foodtruck serves a selection of scrumptious Baos, Dumplings and Sushi Bowls. A convenient takeaway option while in Te Anau, they also cater for gluten-free and dairy-free customers and offer a delivery service within Te Anau.

Or if you are looking for a quiet place to have a drink and a snack, head to the Black Dog Bar (next to the Fiordland Cinema) to enjoy some downtime after your long day exploring Fiordland.