5 Green Spaces in Te Anau & Fiordland You Have to See Today!

September 28, 2021

5 Green Spaces in Te Anau & Fiordland You Have to See Today!

October is just around the corner and spring is well and truly here; there’s spring in the air, a spring in our step, and the flower heads are springing to life in the Te Anau gardens and Fiordland National Park.

After a few uncertain and rather stressful months in and out of Alert levels across New Zealand, wandering through calming green spaces and watching native birds flit through native plant life is just what the doctor ordered. We’ve rounded up the top 5 green spaces in Te Anau & Fiordland for you to take in on your next holiday, or revisit as a local!

1. The Radfords on the Lake gardens

We’re proud to be consistently ranked a top Te Anau accommodation. Guests appreciate our clean (and now Covid Clean!) studio apartments or 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom suites with views of tranquil Lake Te Anau.

But surprisingly, there are two aspects of Radfords of the Lake that guests most typically remark on as they check out: their sightings of Dexter Dude the Cat in their motel apartment, or the extensive gardens.

Kerri’s Mum, Phyllis, isn’t a green thumb – she’s green from head to toe! Our Rhododedrons, camelias, roses, daphnes, lavenders and lots of pre annuals and annuals are tenderly cared for and immaculately presented by Phyllis year round.

We also take caring for the wider environment very seriously as well. We believe in treating Aotearoa respectfully and being guardians of its land. That love and care is apparent in our green space around the motel accommodations, but it also drives the choice of tourism operators we partner with, or the outdoor activities we encourage our guests to try while here. Like biking along the lake front as opposed to driving to each destination, or visiting the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary.

So even if you’re not booked to stay at Radfords on the Lake, we’re proud to say that our gardens are worth driving by for a peek!

2. The famous Punanga Manu o Te Anau/Te Anau Bird Sanctuary

Radfords on the lake| Scenic view | Te Anau

The expansive views from the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary. Credit: https://southlandnz.com/

Speaking of the Sanctuary, definitely pop it onto your list of rather therapeutic green spaces to explore in Te Anau. It’s a 2 minute drive away from Radfords on the Lake, but better yet, finish your morning coffee in our gardens and take the 25 minute stroll there for extra relaxation.

Nestled on the banks of Lake Te Anau, Punanga Manu o Te Anau/Te Anau Bird Sanctuary is a safe haven for cheeky takahē, kakā parrot, the unusual Antipodes Island parakeet and the ruru koukou owls, amongst many others.

But aside from the protected and beloved birdlife, you’ll also soak in the scenery, thanks to a short stroll from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre. Native trees, bush and grasses fill the Sanctuary and make for a cozy home for the birds.

3. Fiordland National Park, of course!

Radfords On The Lake| Kepler Track Control Gates

Just a taste of the views from the Kepler Track Control Gates, start of the Great Walks Kepler Track! Credit: https://www.freewalks.nz/

If you do decide to drive to the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary for some bird watching and outdoor time instead of walking from Radfords, you might as well explore more of the Fiordland National Park while you’re at it!

Fiordland is famous for its Great Walks tracks. But it’s also a fabulous region for shorter day walks. No matter your physical abilities, there is a stunningly beautiful walk for all in our beloved Park! Our recommendation is to extend your trek from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre to the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary by heading to the Kepler Track Control Gates. Watch the Manapouri and Te Anau Lake water flow at this section of the hydroelectric power station, see postcard-worthy mountain and lake views and vast stretches of this gorgeous native land.

All up, it’s about a 50-60 minute walk from the Visitor Centre to the Gates and back to your car for stop number four: Ivon Wilson Park!

4. Ivon Wilson Park – 35 hectares of greenery!

Radfords On The Lake | Lake View | Ivon Wilson Park

Lake mirroring sky during a moment of calm at Ivon Wilson Park. Credit: https://www.fiordland.org.nz/

Another must-do outdoor spot for roaming gardens and green space is Ivon Wilson Park. It’s about a 1km walk from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre if you’d rather keep the leg-stretch going, or you can quickly bop over in your car or by bike from Radfords on the Lake.

Ivon Wilson is a myriad of exotic and native trees to immerse yourself in for a quiet, reflective moment. Its 35-hectares of beauty is also home to expansive playgrounds for the kiddos, off-leash fun for the doggos, and a bop round on the mountain bike for those feeling even more energetic!

5. ANZAC Reserve City Park in Te Anau

Radfords On The Lake| Garden Beds | ANZAC Park

Some of the well-kept garden beds and memorial at ANZAC Park.

For a more manicured and deliberate aesthetic (Phyllis’s fave!), pop into ANZAC Reserve City Park before the end of your mini-break in Te Anau. It’s right on the lakefront and an easy 4-minute wander from us here at Radfords.

There are some fun sculptures for the kids, like a large and curious takahē, but also some beautiful memorials in honour of our soldiers of wars past. Enjoy a picnic here if you have time, surrounded by well-tended hedges and flowerbeds, and read the various plaques about our local history and landscape.

If you appreciate the gardening skills of others, or simply appreciate some quiet time for the soul in a green, natural space, then pick Te Anau and Fiordland for your next holiday!

  • We travelled the South Island for 12 days and this is the best place we stayed. We stayed for 2 nights and found our suite to be clean, warm, comfortable, modern and spacious. All the amenities were above and beyond…the large soft towels, the nice fluffy dressing gowns, a spacious bathroom with nice little touches added and a great kitchenette. Kerri welcomed us warmly and helped us with dinner recommendations. When we come back to NZ we will definitely be staying here again and can’t wait to catch up with Kerri.
    Collette H – September 23  Read Reviews
  • An absolute must stay if you’re in Te Anau. Kerri was the most incredible host to us, going above and beyond. The rooms are wonderful, with lots of lovely extra touches and very well equipped kitchen too! Beds were so comfy and the linen was really nice. The views from the room was spectacular and it was lovely and warm. Great room and space for travelling with young children too!
    Sophie M – August 23  Read Reviews
  • The quality of everything was amazing. You can tell how much detail has been put into everything. It looks freshly renovated and the location is perfect walking distance to town. Kerri kindly provided us with options of places to eat and explore. Feels more like a "Hotel" then a "Motel".
    Mel H – August 23  Read Reviews
  • Occasionally, you find a great hotel. This is one. We booked online after having read good reviews. Sat right on the front with views over the lake, and only a few steps from town. We really enjoyed our two night stay. The welcome was fabulous, lots of good advice of where to go and where we should go to eat and drink. The room was superb, a separate living area and bedroom. There is a comfy big sofa, looking out towards the lake and a more than extremely comfortable bed. A great effort has been made to make Radfords stand out above others, and it shows. I would suggest that in a three week visit to NZ, this was the nicest place we stayed.
    Paul W – September 23  Read Reviews
  • the location is excellent, in central Te Anau, with a view over the lake.  The accommodation is really good, it's a small apartment with a kitchenette so you can cook (with induction plates, microwave, toaster...) and even including a dish washer. A breakfast can be ordered, one that is both substantial & healthy. You will meet Kerri, who's extremely friendly, smiling, and flexible. She  loves to give recommendations for places to eat at, things to do, etc. I warmly recommend Radfords on the Lake!
    ExploreFeelGood – August 23  Read Reviews
  • Sometimes you just have a feeling that you are welcome and people really care about you as a guest. This is the case at Radfords on the Lake. We had been back to Te Anau for another stay and when we walked in to check in, we were greeted with a big smile and Kerri came out to gave me a big hug. It has been years that we have been there and she still remembered everything about us. In one word, everything was just perfect.
    Wala69 – August 23  Read Reviews

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🎃 H A L L O W E E N  2 0 2 3 🎃
We always get asked how close we are to the centre of town, so we thought we’d show you! Come with us on our short, flat 7 minute walk from Te Anau town centre back to the lake views from Radfords.
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Throwback Thursday! Reminiscing on a great night at the @hospitalitynz Awards for Excellence 2023 back in June. While we didn't win on the night, we were super proud to be a finalist alongside some fantastic motels. And it's always fun to get dressed up in the big city and celebrate our great industry with all our industry friends.
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
If you're visiting us during school holidays and your looking for some family friendly activities, make sure a visit to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves with @real.newzealand  is top of your list. This unique Fiordland experience is not to be missed. We can help you make a booking before you arrive or chat to our friendly team when you check-in.

📸 @real.newzealand 
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
📸📸📸📸📸📸📸📸📸📸📸⭐😍😏
We made the most of the gorgeous spring weather over the weekend and got out to enjoy one of our favourite things to do in Te Anau, -  a stroll along the lakefront. A must do when you visit us.
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Wow! We can't believe it's the first day of spring. While we love the cosy winter nights we are ready for the longer days and warmer temps. We're looking forward to evenings on the patio sipping a glass of Rosé. Who is planning a Fiordland adventure this spring?

📸 @digitaltravelcouple 
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Fiordland is full of adventures, but after a day of exploring Radfords on the Lake is the perfect place to come back to and relax. Our luxurious rooms provide you with a cosy sanctuary, so you can reflect and recharge on your day. 

📸 @thejoshshaw 

#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Picture perfect moments at the Te Anau jetty. A popular spot for photographers. Have you visited this Instagram famous spot in Te Anau?

📸 @digitaltravelcouple 

#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
While we are a small team at Radfords on the Lake, all team members, both human and feline play an important part ensuring our guests have a great time. Dexter Dude is our resident sun snoozer but loves nothing more than a cuddle from our guests. A social fellow is our Dexter and to us he is just purr-fect. So as today is #internationalcatday we celebrate our favourite furry feline friend. 

#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Once you've booked your stay with us here at Radfords on the Lake, did you know we can help you plan and book all your Fiordland activities? Fiordland is our home so let us help you make the most of this special place so you don't miss a thing.

📸 @real.newzealand cruising in Doubtful Sound
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#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Golden hour at Radfords on the Lake. 

Winter in the National Park is beautiful but we do miss those long, hot summer days.

@digitaltravelcouple 

#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
 #fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Fiordland National Park is a hikers paradise and Te Anau is the gateway to the National Park. Radfords on the Lake is the perfect place to base yourself for all your Fiordland adventures. Relax in comfort and style in one of our luxurious lakeside apartments after a day of exploring. 

📸 @digitaltravelcouple

#fiordland #fiordlandnz #lovefiordland #fiordlandbeyondbelief #radfordsonthelake
#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland