Curious what to do in Fiordland while you are visiting? The friendly team at Edgewater Motel are more than happy to help you out with itinerary ideas and to also make reservations for tours on your behalf*. The best way to see Fiordland is to get in amongst it! We recommend you stay with us for at least 2 nights in Te Anau to make the most of your Fiordland Adventure.
We can organise the best value tours in advance, or on your arrival. Our advice is to book your tours early to avoid disapointment and if you have any questions or queries please email us at res@edgewater.net.nz
* Note that most tours require prepayment upon booking and the tour operator booking & cancellation policies will apply.
Our most highly recommended activities which should be considered by all guests visiting Fiordland during 2022 & 2023 are as follows:
Te Anau Glowworm Caves is a 2.15 hr hour tour and includes a cruise on Lake Te Anau to the cavern house and guided tour through the cave. A really popular tour that the whole family can enjoy. Departs 10.15am & 2.00pm daily (with extra departures advertised locally from Oct-Feb)
Fiordland Jet offer varying options to explore Fiordland by Jet Boat and prices start at $69.00 per adult. Their signature tours include 'Pure Wilderness' which is a two hour tour including a jet boat on the Waiau River through to Lake Manapouri. Also options to combine helicopter & floatplane connections and cycle transfers onto the Lake2Lake cycle trail.
Allow a full day
You have the option to self-drive or depart from Te Anau by guided coach, if you choose to self-drive please be aware that you need to allow at least 2 hours to drive to Milford Sound from Te Anau. Ensure you have a full tank of fuel and in the winter (or whenever snow is falling) you may need to carry snow chains with you.
Depart from Milford Sound at 10.30am, 12.15pm & 1.15pm for a two hour cruise. Prices from $75 – $110 per adult. TIP: I recommend to upgrade your departure to the Discover More option which includes the Cruise, Underwater Observatory & Picnic Lunch. This takes 3 hours and is fantastic value for money.
Let someone else do the driving! Take a coach and cruise from Te Anau and let your guide show you the sights on the Milford Road, includes a cruise on Milford Sound, photo stops and optional picnic lunch. Departs Te Anau at 8.00am and returns by 5.00pm. TIP: This is my highest recommended journey to Milford Sound.
Get up close and personal with Milford Sound. Roscoes offer a great range of kayaking options that suit all levels of ability. Departures in the morning, or the afternoon – costs range from $115.00 – $255.00 per person.
Activities onboard can include kayaking, there are up to 60 passengers onboard accommodated in Twin, Double or Quad cabins (some with private ensuite). Prices start from $499.00 per adult in Quad share accommodation.
Allow a full day
Each journey has the option to depart from our office by guided coach (additional cost) or meet in Manapouri (20 minutes’ drive from Te Anau).
Treat yourself to a once in a lifetime trip! Fully catered Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise on board the MV Southern Secret. Cosy Double bed Cabins with private ensuite bathroom; just 12 passengers on board. Activities include fishing, kayaking and sightseeing. Price from $1500.00 per couple (private double cabin).
Escape into the wilderness for a while. Enjoy Doubtful Sound from sea level – a day trip to remember! Includes all transport and up to 4 hours kayaking on Doubtful Sound. From $399.00 per person for the day tour. TIP: This trip includes a water taxi return to the start of the Kayak and is highly recommended as a Kayak and Cruise option.
3 hour cruise of Doubtful Sound with transport across Lake Manapouri and Wilmot Pass. Departs Manapouri at 8.00am ($265.00 per adult, $80.00 per child) or 10.30am ($299.00 per adult, $80.00 per child).
For transport into and around Fiordland and Southern New Zealand, we recommend Tracknet. There are several services during the summer season connecting Te Anau, Milford Sound and Queenstown with Fiordland’s Great Walks – The Milford, Routeburn, Kepler and Hollyford Tracks. Book with us or visit Tracknet to book online www.tracknet.net
Please let us know if you would like further information for these or other activities. You are able to book these when you arrive with us in Te Anau, although during our busy season it is advisable to prebook so you don’t miss out!
Please note all activity reservations made with us are subject to a 48 hour cancellation policy, payment is due at the time of confirming your activity requirements.
New travel rules for New Zealand
The New Zealand Government has introduced a new travel requirement for some visitors and transit passengers. It’s called the NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) and travellers need to request theirs via the official mobile app or website. Approval can take up to 72 hours, so get yours before you go.
The NZeTA is required for travel from 1 October 2019.
Visit www.immigration.govt.nz/nzeta to find out if you need one.
We look forward to seeing you soon.