• Discover Fiordland

Fiordland National Park is one of the most stunning regions of New Zealand. With glacier-carved fjords, towering peaks and lush native forest, make sure you allocate plenty of time in your itinerary to explore this World Heritage wonder.

Please note: From 1 June 2023, the car parking charges in Milford Sound will be $10 per hour. 

Te Anau – Your gateway to Fiordland

Our home of Te Anau is your gateway to Fiordland and the perfect location to base yourself from. Te Anau is a beautiful location in its own right, with a multitude of experiences on offer including glow worm caves, nature hikes, lake cruises and more. If you are short on time, picking up a scenic helicopter or plane ride from Te Anau over the National Park will open up some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world to you.

Experience the best that Fiordland has to offer. Our carefully curated packages focus on what our guests enjoy most, from exploring Milford Sound, to experiencing New Zealand’s most famous Great Walks.

Lake Te Anau, Te Anau

Visit beautiful Lake Te Anau

What Makes Fiordland Unforgettable

Milford Sound

Easily accessible by road from Te Anau, Milford Sound is the most recognisable destination in Fiordland. The journey in on the Milford Sound Road is unforgettable, with a number of short walks dotted along the drive including to the Mirror Lakes, Lake Gunn and the Chasm offering easy exploration from your vehicle.

The best way to appreciate the natural majesty of Milford Sound is from the water. Whether you choose once of the cruise options available, or explore with one of the kayak operators, the towering Mitre Peak and crashing Stirling Waterfall (among many others depending on the time of year) will be a highlight of your trip.

Our Finest of Fiordland and Milford Coach & Cruise packages both take you to this wonderful region, including guided tours and a scenic 2-hour boat cruise.

The Starry Night Sky and Radfords

The countryside around Te Anau, especially along the road to Milford Sound has some of the starriest skies in the world. From the very many vantage points along the Milford road and also the road to Manapouri you can look up and enjoy the most spectacular views of the curve of our galaxy – the Milky Way. In addition, on any clear night you will be able to view the amazing dwarf galaxies of the Large Magellanic Cloud and the Small Magellanic Cloud plus the globular clusters of Omega Centauri and 47 Tucanae. And remember, the Southern Cross is also always out there somewhere, and at the right time of year Matariki too.
To make spotting these amazing objects easier, the staff at Radfords are able to provide you with ‘Star Charts’ and a ‘planisphere’ and will give you simple instructions on how to use them. Staff can also advise you on the very best places for viewing. Seeing the universe in all its glory, with the naked eye alone, is a true wonder but if you want a closer look at some of these special objects Radfords also have binoculars for you to use to bring them even closer. A visiting astronomer who recently stayed at Radfords said: “This region has the very best views of the night sky I have seen anywhere in any place I have visited!”. So… the next time you visit Radfords expect to look up and enjoy a very special experience too!

Radfords on the lake Stargazing

Credit: @digitaltravelcouple

Doubtful Sound

For those with some more time and a spirit of adventure, the trip to Doubtful Sound is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Less accessible than Milford, you will need to take a boat across Lake Manapouri, along with a bus through thick native forest before you find yourself at the fiord.

Exploring Doubtful Sound by cruise or kayak – with overnight cruises available – will instantly transport you back to New Zealand’s quiet, unpopulated history.

Don’t miss out of this uniquely New Zealand destination with our Finest of Fiordland and Doubtful Sound packages

New Zealand Great Walks

Fiordland is home to three of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Kepler, Milford, and Routeburn tracks. Keen hikers will want to cover the entirety of the multi-day hikes, booking huts or campsites along the way. You will be treated to some of the most incredible natural beauty that New Zealand has to offer.

Both the Milford and Kepler tracks start at Te Anau, while the Routeburn Track is a little further away, starting at either the Routeburn Shelter at the top of Lake Wakatipu or from The Divide, 85km northwest of Te Anau.

For those looking for more of a ‘taste’ of each, will find that day trips on each track will be more to their liking. Our Three Great Walks package offers guided day trips of each of the tracks, including a helicopter flight for the Kepler Track.

Bike Trails

Te Anau and nearby Manapouri are home to kilometres of gentle, lakeside biking trails. The cycle trails are perfect for cyclists of all ages and abilities. The 28km Lake2Lake Cycle Trail from Lake Te Anau to Lake Manapouri has various access points along the way, so you’ll discover all the unique lakeside spots to enjoy during your ride. You can ride alongside the Manapouri-Te Anau Highway between Balloon Loop Road and Supply Bay Road to reach Lake Manapouri.

For a more relaxed ride along the Lake Te Anau harbour, follow the Upukerora Trail to reach the Upukerora River. You can access the Lake2Lake Trail by riding back into town and heading toward the DOC Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre. At Radfords on the Lake, we have two mountain bikes on-site, free to our guests to use. Plus, there are plenty of cycle hire operators in town with a selection of regular and e-bikes for hire. If you’re bringing your own wheels, we offer secure bike storage as well as e-bike charging facilities.

Tracknet: Fiordland’s Track and Transport Specialists for over 30 years

Tracknet offer reliable daily scheduled passenger bus & coach services to and from many of the most beautiful areas of the Southern South Island.

Tracknet bus services travel each day between Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound & Invercargill. Regular services connect to Southern New Zealand’s walking tracks including the Milford, Routeburn, Kepler, Hollyford, Greenstone & Caples Tracks.

Easyhike

Making your Fiordland Great Walk easier.

There’s a lot of planning needed to get you to the track and get back. Finding the best options for you and your group can be difficult. The team at Easyhike get that. In fact, that’s where they specialise.

From simple, secure and flexible car relocation, quality gear hire and tasty food packages, through to independent and cost-effective, convenient transport packages, they offer a range of services to get you to the track and back.

Their team will be with you throughout your planning and your journey and dedicated to making sure you have the best experience possible.

Bucket-list scenic flights

You can’t beat seeing this World Heritage wonderland from the sky. There’s nothing like viewing the hanging valley of Campbell’s Kingdom, suspended high amidst the rocky outcrops of Doubtful Sound, from the clouds. Or, enjoying a picnic alongside famous Lake Quill, perched high above Milford Sound. A unique option is to combine air, land and lake with a Fiordland Heli-Hike: Soar over Lake Te Anau to land on Mount Luxmore, hike downhill along the Kepler Track, then enjoy a short boat cruise across the lake and back to town.

Our friends at Southern Lakes Helicopters offer incredible, highly recommended Fiordland scenic flights that promise to ‘knock your socks off’ – that’s kiwi-speak for ‘truly unforgettable.’

Unique Fiordland activities

Ata Whenua – Fiordland Cinema This film isn’t your average movie: It’s a rich cinematic journey through Fiordland’s most beautiful, remote and untouched landscapes. Filmed mostly from a helicopter, it offers rare insight into the region’s historical and natural wonders.
Fiordland historic sailing cruise Explore Lake Te Anau via the beautiful, historic sailing ship ‘Faith in Fiordland’. Includes delicious, locally-sourced canapés, NZ wines and a passionate kiwi crew – a unique local activity that comes highly recommended.
Fiordland Jet An exciting wilderness jet boat ride alongside Fiordland National Park. Stunning views and Lord of the Rings filming locations.
Bike Fiordland Embrace remote Fiordland countryside and explore via bike on scenic cycle trails or via 4WD guided tour.

Te Anau amenities

A beautiful meal, snack or coffee isn’t hard to find in Te Anau. Here are some of our favourite local cafes and restaurants.
Redcliff Café & Bar Set in an early settlers cottage, this is a great place for delicious, locally-sourced New Zealand style-food. Open Lunch & Dinner.
The Fat Duck A delicious Gastropub located in the heart of Te Anau. New Zealand beer, wine and hearty pub classics like Lamb Shanks goes down a treat. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner.
Black Dog Bar Adjacent to Fiordland Cinema is the luxurious Black Dog Bar. Great for beer, wine and platters in front of the fire.
Sandfly Café A cosy corner café great for breakfast or lunch, with superb coffee.
Ditto NZ Asian-inspired street fare for a great dine in experience and takeaway options.

Fiordland Itineraries

Southern Scenic Route

Take the scenic journey between Queenstown and Dunedin through 610 kilometers of deserted beaches, lush rainforest, pristine lakes and stunning mountain vistas. Check out our Southern Scenic Route Itinerary for inspiration for your next journey through the South.

 

Te Anau Map Download

Spending the day around Te Anau and want to explore the main town centre?

Download this map and take a wander through Te Anau’s town centre and check out the local shops and grab a bite at one of the cafes. Why not check out Lake Te Anau for views of the lake surrounded by the epic mountains. Enjoy the fresh air and soak up the atmosphere of our small picturesque town.

Download here

  • We stayed here for only one night prior to our overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound, which is a shame because it was one of the best places we stayed in on our three-week trip around New Zealand, and a longer stay would have been most welcome. Room 12 was large, and beautifully appointed with an extremely comfy bed. Kerri on reception was excellent; efficient and very welcoming about things to do in Te Anau.
    Jinty21 – February 2024  Read Reviews
  • My husband and I spent four glorious nights at Redford’s on the Lake…. What a slice of heaven, with the lake right in front of our eyes…. Kerri was the most gracious, helpful and conscientious host. She knows all about the area, had great restaurant recommendations, where to grocery shop, and what to see and do. And always with a smile. We felt like we were visiting someone’s luxurious vacation home with beautiful linens, lush curtains, several types of pillows for comfort and wallpaper and lots of great amenities. Good/strong Wi-Fi, super comfortable king-size bed, anything, and everything you could imagine you need as a traveller was provided including use of their washer and dryer facility, including laundry detergent,…always a bonus! We hiked three strenuous hikes three days in a row and coming home to the large Jacuzzi bathtub in our bathroom was heaven. Great for sore muscles. Our one-bedroom suite was spacious and luxurious. If we ever get back to Lake Teanau, we will definitely be coming back to Redford’s on the Lake. It’s a five-star plus accommodation with the most gracious owner and staff.
    Freddi W – February 2024  Read Reviews
  • We truly enjoyed our stay at Radford’s on the Lake. Our room was very clean and spacious with a wonderful view of the lake and easy parking. The location was perfect with an easy stroll to town for any restaurants or activities as well as a short drive to Milford Sound. However, the best aspect was the service provided by Kerri. She gave us wonderful recommendations to make the most of our visit and even loaned my husband a raincoat when he forgot his. She truly made us feel welcome.
    Traveller227 – February 2024  Read Reviews
  • Superbly appointed accommodation and lovely view of the lake. All the staff were great too! Fairly short and level walk into town so easy to get to cafes, restaurants and shops. Plenty of parking at the Radfords and in town. Te Anau is a great location to head off into Fjordland - less than an hour to the reserve and only 90 minutes to Milford Sound.
    Ian L – January 2024  Read Reviews
  • We stayed 2 nights in January 2024. What a nice place to stay! A very warm welcome from Kerri, and an introduction to our room. The room was with 2 bedrooms, we travelled as family, nice and clean. The kitchenette was with things we needed for preparing breakfast. Good and comfortable beds, a nice view to the Lake Te Anau. We asked for recommended restaurants and Kerri was nice to show us places for dinner and drew on a map where to go. Excellent service and great hospitality from the management. Our best recommendations to Radfords on the Lake.
    Steenlerche – January 2024  Read Reviews
  • It was the cutest little “motel” we have stayed. The room was beautiful overlooking the lake. We had the first-floor room and had a great view. The name motel only applies to the fact that we could see where we parked our car. However, it felt more luxurious when you got inside. Comfortable bed, clean linens and a very cute little kitchen. The lady at the front desk was wonderful and gave us plenty of Great tips on where to eat. We hope to visit again one day and stay again
    Bella – January 2024  Read Reviews

Our Environmental Promise

We are committed to preserving our beautiful surroundings and reducing our footprint on the environment.

#Radfordsonthelake

SHARE YOUR SPECIAL IMAGES WITH US

Last month we celebrated the amazing Jeanette, an integral member of our team for the last 10 years and long term friend of Kerri's. A team player with the highest standards and an all round bloody good person. Radfords on the Lake would not be the same without her. Jeanette keeps the team in high spirits with her great sense of humour, we're a better team with her on it. Never one to say no to a glass or two of Merlot with some chips and kiwi onion dip after a long day. Jeanette, we want to say a huge thank you for all your hard work over the years, we appreciate you so much. We look forward to many more years together at Radfords on the Lake.
As the sun goes down on another year, we would like to take the opportunity to say a big thank you too all our lovely guests who visited us over the last year. We love sharing  beautiful Te Anau with so many people from near and far. We can't wait to welcome many more visitors in 2024. 

Wishing you all a happy and healthy new from Kerri, Steve, Shelley, Katie and all the team at Radfords on the Lake.
From the Radfords on the Lake family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas 🎅🏽🤶🏼🎄🍾
If you are visiting Te Anau this summer make sure to add a trip on @fiordlandhistoriccruises to your bucket list. Enjoy a leisurely cruise across the south fiord of lake Te Anau into beautiful untouched wilderness. We can help you make a booking before you arrive so you don't miss out.
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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
Looking for the perfect present for a loved one this Christmas. Give the gift of a Fiordland Experience. Book a Te Anau getaway now for winter 2023 for just $250 per night.

This special rate is  based on 2 people sharing with a minimum 3 night stay in a Standard Studio or Ground Floor One Bedroom. SAVE up to $100 per night.

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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
🎃 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