Lake Te Anau
Southland
Lake Te Anau, located in the southwestern corner of New Zealand's South Island, is the country's second-largest lake by surface area and the largest in the South Island. Stretching 65 km in length, it features three unique inland fiords-North, Middle, and South Fiord-that extend from its western shore. The lake's maximum depth reaches 425 meters, making parts of its bed lie below sea level. Surrounded by mountainous terrain, including the prominent Kepler and Murchison Mountains rising 1,400 meters above the water, the lake is a centerpiece of the Fiordland National Park and the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site. It holds significant cultural value for the Ngāi Tahu iwi, serving historically as a vital stopover on traditional trails between coasts. Today, Lake Te Anau is a hub for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming, with two famous New Zealand Great Walks-the Milford Track and Kepler Track-starting at its shores. The lake's ecosystem supports endangered bird species like the takahē and diverse native vegetation including the crown fern. The nearby Te Ana-au Caves add to the area's natural allure, making Lake Te Anau a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunity.
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Tip: The best time to visit Lake Te Anau is during the summer months when boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming are popular. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets for the Milford and Kepler Tracks in advance due to their popularity. Discounts may be available for guided tours and multi-day hiking passes. The nearby town of Te Anau offers various accommodations and services, making it a convenient base for exploring the lake and Fiordland National Park.
Interesting facts
- •Lake Te Anau is the second-largest lake by surface area in New Zealand and the largest in the South Island.
- •It contains the only inland fiords in New Zealand, including North, Middle, and South Fiord.
- •The lake's maximum depth is 425 meters, with parts of its bed lying 215 meters below sea level.
- •The Murchison Mountains near the lake are a sanctuary for the endangered takahē bird.
- •Two of New Zealand's Great Walks, the Milford Track and Kepler Track, begin at Lake Te Anau.
History
Lake Te Anau was first discovered by European explorers Charles Nairn and William Stephen in 1852.
Before European arrival, the area was an important traditional stopping point for the Ngāi Tahu iwi, who used the trails between the east and west coasts of the South Island.
The lake's name, Te Ana-au, means 'The cave of swirling water,' referring to the nearby Te Ana-au Caves rediscovered in 1948.
Over time, the lake and its surroundings became part of Fiordland National Park and the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site, recognized internationally in 1990 for its outstanding natural and cultural values.
Place Guide
North Fiord, Middle Fiord, and South Fiord
The three large inland fiords extending from the western shore of Lake Te Anau are unique to New Zealand. They offer dramatic landscapes and are accessible for exploration by boat or kayak.
Te Ana-au Caves1948 (rediscovery)
Located on the western shore of Lake Te Anau, these caves are known for their stunning limestone formations and glowworms, contributing to the lake's name meaning 'The cave of swirling water.'
Murchison Mountains Sanctuary
A protected area between Middle and South Fiords dedicated to the conservation of the endangered takahē bird species, showcasing New Zealand's commitment to preserving native wildlife.
Milford Track
One of New Zealand's Great Walks, this renowned hiking trail starts at the northern tip of Lake Te Anau and offers spectacular views of Fiordland's wilderness.
Kepler Track
Another Great Walk starting and ending at the southern tip of Lake Te Anau near the Waiau River, providing a circuit through diverse landscapes including mountains and forests.
