8 Things to do in Fiordland this Winter

July 29, 2021

8 Things to do in Fiordland this Winter

Best known as the gateway to Fiordland National Park, Te Anau is the best place to base yourself for a few days this winter. Home to plenty of activities and experiences it warrants a place on your New Zealand road trip itinerary.

Winter is a special time here in Southland and if you are thinking about visiting, don’t be put off by the cold temperatures, it’s well the extra layers in the suitcase. Winter brings Fiordland’s lowest rainfall, plenty of snow, and a picture-perfect national park.

Below are our top eight activities to put on your list this winter season in New Zealand.

 

Visit Milford Sound in all of its winter glory

Arguably the most famous destination of them all, the jewel in our Fiordland crown and home to some of the most iconic views in New Zealand. Winter is the perfect time to cruise in Milford Sound. The fiord is calm, the sunsets are golden and the Milford Road will blow your mind.

Take a full day driving from Te Anau and stop at some of our favourite locations like The Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, and the famous Homer Tunnel. Keep a lookout for the Kea birds, the world’s only alpine parrot. Take a two-hour cruise with (insert fave cruise company link) and marvel at Mitre Peak and Stirling Falls.

Take a hike in Fiordland

Fiordland is a hiking paradise and for good reason. Did you know Fiordland is home to three of New Zealand’s Great Walks? However, if you are keen to strap on the hiking boots before the Great Walk season why not check out some of the famous day hikes in the area. Lake Marian day hike reveals a pristine glacial lake and Key Summit showcases the finest views down the Hollyford Valley. Looking to stay closer to Te Anau? Take a stroll from the control gates onto the iconic Kepler Track. This easy, flat walk takes you through the native bush where you might spot a little bird or two. An easy little escape into nature that is perfect for all ages and abilities

Visit the Te Anau Bird sanctuary

Punanga Manu o Te Anau, The Bird Sanctuary, is nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau and home to some of the rarest, flightless birds in the world. The Takahē are the stars of the show and meeting these funny-looking characters is a must-do for Te Anau visitors. Enjoy up-close encounters with Kaka, Kereru, and Tui’s, all while listening to the knowledgeable and caring rangers who look after these birds. You can arrange a private group tour to learn more or simply drop in on a gold coin donation for feeding time. Take a peek at some of New Zealand’s birds that are difficult to spot in the wild and donate to the hard work they do to rehabilitate these rare species.

Cycle to Lake Manapouri

Have you heard about the Lake2Lake Cycle trail? You have now! A custom-built trail that runs alongside Lake Te Anau and the Waiau River through to Manapouri is waiting for you and your two wheels. Cycle from Te Anau and take in the natural beauty, the bike trail is open to walkers, runners, cyclists, and e-bikes, all of which we can arrange for you. Take your time, this ride showcases some of the best forests and lakeside views on the South Island.

Visit the Glow Worm Caves

Hop on a boat with the Real Journeys crew and take a trip to the iconic glow-worm caves. Travel across Lake Te Anau to an amazing 12,000-year-old cave system. Here you will find a grotto filled with thousands of glittering Glow Worms, all native to New Zealand. A magical adventure for kids and adults alike. Te Anua is the place to tick off some of New Zealand’s best-loved experiences.

Eat delicious local food

If there is one thing Fiordland is good at (apart from being picture-perfect, of course) is food. Our locals know their stuff, whether you want to sample the local favourites like venison or crayfish, delve into a deliciously crafted Bao Bun or dine with pristine lake views, Te Anau appeals to all tastebuds. There is always something happening in our little town and we will point you in the direction of famed hangouts such as La Toscana or Redcliffe for an evening of fun. You can order from almost every menu in town and enjoy in the comfort of your Radford’s hotel suite too.

Stay with the locals

Sharing Fiordland’s beautiful environment and unique experiences with guests is our passion. As “born and bred” Southland locals, Kerri and Steve know their stuff and will hook you up with the best experiences and best-kept secrets in their backyard. Staying with locals most certainly has its perks, pair this with luxurious accommodation and top-notch recommendations for an unforgettable stay.

Feel the calm in Doubtful Sound

Patea, Doubtful Sound is a Fiordland gem. A striking and powerful landscape spanning 40 kilometres from the head of the fiord right out to the Tasman Sea. Branching into three arms, you will experience impressive waterfalls, tranquil waters, and some of the most incredible wildlife. Did you know Doubtful Sound provides shelter for a population of Bottlenose Dolphins and Tawaki, the Fiordland Crested Penguin? With no road to the fiord, the experience of getting there is an adventure in itself. Depart early for a full day exploring this peaceful wonder and return to tell us all about it.

From off the beaten track to well-known adventures. Fiordland National Park serves up a spectacular array of iconic moments just waiting for you this winter. We can’t wait to see you soon.

  • This place was phenomenal!! Wonderfully situated on the lake with an ideal view and convenient (walking distance) to literally everything. Clean, comfy, and well-appointed. An excellent hostess who gave wonderful advice, booked all experiences, made reservations for dinner, you name it; this cannot be under-rated, as the weather conditions change rapidly in Fjordland and having someone who can help with bookings, advice, and changes of plans was immeasurably helpful! The little touches were amazing - water on hand to refill bottles, great laundry facilities, ease of parking, etc...Cannot recommend this place highly enough!
    Ronald – September 2024  Read Reviews
  • We could not have been happier with this place. The room was very clean and comfortable with a stunning view. The location is perfect as it is a quick (10 min walk) walk away from everything downtown. Reception was extremely kind and welcoming, and gave us amazing recommendations for restaurants and hikes that we would have totally missed! They even had two high quality bikes that we were able to take out all morning with ease. Absolutely cannot recommend this place more and will never stay anywhere else in Te Anau if I’m ever lucky enough to return!
    The Perfect Stay – Joseph April 2025  Read Reviews
  • We had a great stay at Radfords on the Lake in March 2025. Our apartment was very clean and spacious with a beautiful view of the lake. Kerry at reception was soooo friendly and helpful , she made us feel at home. She also recommended things to do and places to eat and was even happy to book dinner for us. Location was great, only a short walk into town. We would stay here again.
    A great place to stay in Te Anau – Mnass April 2025  Read Reviews
  • Radfords on the Lake is a wonderful place to stay in the beautiful Te Anau. We had a really great time. The unit was really comfortable, and the staff incredibly welcoming. Kerri and Steve and the staff went out of their way to make our stay special. They were incredibly helpful and nothing was too much - they were so a no paying and went out of their way to assist us with anythjng. I can't recommend Radfords on the Lake highly enough - it is a really great place to stay and made our time in the Fiordlands special.
    A welcoming, friendly and very comfortable place to stay! – Geoff March 2025  Read Reviews
  • Wow ! Such a kind woman at check in. Helpful with where to go for dinner and breakfast, gave us milk for our coffee at check in . Walked us to our room , and wow the rooms were gorgeous . We did get the 2 bedroom, beautiful view of the lake, large open doors, big spa towels, great shower , comfortable bed and within walking distance of city center. Great walking paths. I wish we had another night here
    Wow – Temerald March 2025  Read Reviews
  • This is a beautiful property right by the lake. All units have views! The accommodation is lovely with a sitting area, kitchenette and bedroom. Parking on site. Short walk to plenty of eateries, shopping and soaking in the slice of heaven. Kerri, our host is the nicest person I have met on my travels. She knows everything and everyone one. Trust the folks with your trips and tours - they can arrange with efficiency. We can’t say enough good things. We will be back.
    Amazing place – AJ_wanderlist February 2025  Read Reviews

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Just taking a moment between jobs around the motel, to stop and appreciate where we live and these stunning views.  We love spring in Te Anau.
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#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Still searching for the perfect Christmas gift? Treat your loved ones to a slice of paradise this festive season with a Radfords on the Lake Gift Voucher!  Whether it's a peaceful lakeside retreat, a romantic getaway, or an adventure in Te Anau, this gift promises unforgettable memories. 

Give the gift of relaxation and exploration this Christmas. Vouchers can be personalized and are perfect for family, friends, or someone special.

Check out our website for more information. Link in our bio.
Chief welcoming officer Dexter Dude ready to greet guests to Radfords on the Lake.
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#fiordland #fiordlandnationalpark #fiordlandnz #nz #destinationnz #milfordsound #laketeanau #teanau #doubtfulsound #nzmustdo #southislandnz #southisland #newzealand #purenewzealand #purenz #newzealandguide #newzealandvacations #newzealandtravel #dosomethingnewnz #mysouthland #southland
Sometimes you just need to stop and take a moment to enjoy the view. . . and it doesn't get much better than the views from our Premier Lakeview Studio units 😍😍😍
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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're still on a high after we were awarded Best Motel at the Hospitality New Zealand Business Awards 2024! This prestigious recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence and the high standards we strive to achieve in hospitality. We couldn't have done it without our amazing guests so a big thank you from us to all of the amazing visitors we have hosted over the years. 

Link in our bio for the full story.
Steve and I are immensely honored to receive the award for Best Motel in our industry. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We extend our appreciation to @seekom_ for sponsoring this award and to @hospitalitynz for organizing such a fantastic event that celebrates the best in hospitality.
Did you know that Fiordland is a great place to explore the night sky? There are some great spots along the Milford Road perfect for some stargazing. Chat to our team before you head off and we can provide you with ‘Star Charts’ and a ‘planisphere’ and instructions on how to use them. Along with binoculars so you can get a closer look. 
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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
The last of the winter light over Lake Te Anau captured beautifully from the front of Radfords on the Lake by @travelnewzealandwithme 
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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
Did you know that last winter we completed new fit-outs to all the kitchens in all our units? This included adding dishwashers and coffee pod machines. The kitchens now have a modern finish with a contemporary feel. 

Every year we set out to refurbish or improve an area of the property ensuring we are always providing the highest quality accommodation to our guests.
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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
Are you planning your next winter escape in Fiordland. Once you book your accommodation with us make sure you book in dinner in one of the many delicious Te Anau restaurants. If you're not sure where to go, click the link in our bio to see some of few of our favourites.
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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