Your roadie guide: Queenstown to Te Anau​

July 20, 2022

Your roadie guide: Queenstown to Te Anau​

The journey from Queenstown to Te Anau encapsulates New Zealand’s scenery at its finest – as you venture along emerald-blue lakes, dramatic mountain ranges, and through charming high-country townships. It’s a route that rewards the curious, encouraging you to stop and spend a while.

While you can drive the 170km trip non-stop in just over two hours, those who slow down and pause to admire the hidden gems along the way are treated to spectacular views, friendly locals, and one-of-a-kind experiences. Here are some of our top towns and spots to enjoy along the way, whether you have a few hours, an entire day, or if you’ve long stopped checking the clock.

Kingston

At the southernmost tip of Lake Wakatipu, 45 minutes’ drive from Queenstown, lies Kingston, a relaxed lakeside settlement. On your way, stop to admire the unique views of the lake from the Devils Staircase Lookout, then once you arrive in town, park up to enjoy a coffee from The Kingston Flyer, situated in the heritage railway station building.  

If you time your visit right, you can ride the rails and experience a throwback to the golden era of train travel aboard the historic Kingston Flyer itself, a steam train journey across the expansive alpine plains that’s run in various forms since 1878. For those with more time, take on the country golf course, go trout fishing or enjoy a half-day hike in the Eyre Mountains – an area known in Te reo Māori as Taka Rā Haka – ‘where the sun dances on the mountain tops’. 

If you’ve got a need for speed, the team at Xtreme Off Road will satisfy all your adrenaline cravings – and some! Strap into their all-terrain turbo vehicles for the 4WD adventure of a lifetime. Choose from a half-hour blast around an epic off-road track, or a two-hour tour up Kingston Hill to soak up panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu, the Southern Alps and beyond. 

Radfords on the Lake Kingston Xtreme Off Road

Garston

Continue south along SH6 and you’ll come across Garston – a spot to stretch the legs and meet the locals. Coffee Bomb, New Zealand’s most inland food truck, are experts in fuelling thirsty travellers for the journey ahead – their Bacon and Egg muffin is a must-try. After something sweet? Find out what all the buzz is about at Garston Hunny Shop sample their natural clover, manuka, and thyme honey and take a jar or two home with you. Before you hit the road again, peek into Garston Stables next-door to peruse the selection of antique and furniture, art and collectibles from across the globe. 

Radfords on the Lake Garston People Eating Food

Credit: Great South

Adrenaline-seekers will love the remote and rugged terrain of Welcome Rock, an exhilarating 27km biking and hiking trail built by hand. Venture off-grid and you’ll soon get that away-from-it-all-feeling, as you’re surrounded by giant tussocks, beechwood forest, panoramic views and well, nothing else! Rest up after your trail adventure and catch a spectacular sunset or sunrise or with a stay in their rustic farm-style huts – complete with luxe outdoor bathtubs to rest and relax in. 

Radfords on the Lake Garston Rock Trails

Credit: Great South/Ben Arthur

Lumsden 

Originally a major railway junction with lines departing to all four points of the compass, you’ll find remnants of Lumsden’s rail heyday dotted throughout town – including vintage locomotives and wagons. In the restored station building lies a quaint information centre and the Five Finger Co-op, a collective of locally-made arts and crafts – pick up a hand-made treasure to brighten up your home, wardrobe, or to give as a gift. 

Lumsden is also full of delicious spots to grab something to eat and drink and experience classic Southern hospitality. From the 1950’s-themed Americana café Route 6, to small-batch coffee roastery Roar, and the locals-favourite Bafe Bakery, you won’t leave town hungry. Bafe’s mouth-watering pineapple lump slice is a true taste of Kiwiana, and makes for a perfect road trip snack! 

Radfords on the Lake Roar Coffee Lumsden

Credit: Great South

If you’re keen to see the sights on two wheels, then the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail includes plenty of show-stopping scenery – and has well-and-truly earned its place as one of New Zealand’s 23 Great Rides. Hire a mountain bike or e-bike from one of the town’s rental outfits (you can also begin your journey in Kingston or Mossburn) and hit the trails. Ride the entire 186km track in 3-5 days or choose a smaller section for a day ride – you’ll enjoy endless mountain vistas, glacial-carved lakes, sparkling rivers, and the beauty of Southland’s rural heartland. 

Radfords on the Lake Cycle Trail Lumsden

Credit: Chris McLennan

Mavora Lakes 

Whether you’re a novice or experienced angler, a guided flyfishing experience with Fiordland Fishing Guides is the perfect introduction to the vast fishing opportunities on offer in and around Te Anau. With expert local knowledge and handy hints for landing the perfect catch, try your luck at trout fishing in Fiordland’s crystal-clear waters. 

Radfords on the Lake Mavora Lakes Bridge

Credit: DOC

Te Anau surrounds 

You’ve almost reached your destination – but first, stop off at the Te Anau Lion Lookout Point for some sweet, sweet scenery. Gaze across to the high-country landscape and the Kepler and Murchison mountain ranges – you’ll be rewarded with plenty of photo opportunities as you soak up the 360-degree views.  

Now it’s time to head to Lakefront Drive and check into your luxurious room at Radfords on the Lake. What adventures await in Te Anau and Fiordland? That’s a story for another day… 

A garden view next to Lake Te Anau

Looking for more road trip inspiration? There’s even more itineraries over at Fiordland NZ – and if you’re looking for some tunes to enjoy the drive with, then tune your speaker to this Great Kiwi Roadtrip playlist full of classic songs. Driving down the highway in the warmer months? Then this Kiwi Summer collection is full of catchy Kiwi bangers from New Zealand artists. 

  • 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

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

🎃 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.
.
.
.
#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.
.
.
.
#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 
.
.
.
#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.
.
.
.
#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 
.
.
.
#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
.
.
#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