Te Anau Downs

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Te Anau Glowworm Caves
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Southland

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

7.4
4.6/5
193 reviews

Te Anau Glowworm Caves are located on the western shore of Lake Te Anau in the Fiordland region of New Zealand's South Island, a limestone cave system continuously carved by underground streams. In Māori, "Te Ana-au" means "cave of the swirling waters," referring to the dark river that surges through the cave. In 1948, local explorer Lawson Burrows followed clues from ancient Māori legends and spent three years searching caves across the South Island, eventually finding this entrance on the western shore of Lake Te Anau that had previously existed only in legend—when he crawled through a rock crevice and passed through the entrance, the eerie blue glow of countless glowworms deep in the cave came into view. Since then, it has gradually become a favored destination on the shores of Lake Te Anau. The cave is geologically very young, having formed about 12,000 years ago, and is still being shaped by the rushing underground river. To reach the cave, visitors must first take a boat across Lake Te Anau, then cross native bush after arriving on the western shore to enter. The cave tour is divided into two parts, walking and boating: first, bend down to pass through the low rock crevice entrance and walk along the winding limestone passages, where swirling currents and roaring underground waterfalls can be seen along the way; then transfer to a small boat and, pulled along by the guide, glide quietly into the depths of the dark cave. Thousands of New Zealand's unique glowworms inhabit the cave ceiling, emitting pinpricks of blue light like an inverted starry sky. To protect the glowworms and allow eyes to adjust to the darkness, photography and filming are prohibited throughout the cave, and visitors must remain quiet when viewing the glowworms. The temperature inside the cave is low year-round, and the paths are slippery with steps, so extra care should be taken underfoot.

Te Anau · 26.5 km from Te Anau Downs
NZONE Skydive Queenstown
No. 5 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

NZONE Skydive Queenstown

8.9
4.8/5
190 reviews

Gold tier trial period: October to April of the following year NZONE Skydive Queenstown in New Zealand 1. Tandem skydiving origin experience: New Zealand tandem skydiving started in Queenstown in 1990. Complete the challenge at this legendary starting point. 2. New Zealand tourism awards certification: A skydiving brand awarded by the New Zealand tourism awards, ensuring both safety and experience with double authority. 3. Queenstown core view aerial perspective: Free fall to enjoy the "S"-shaped bay of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables mountain range and the panoramic view of Queenstown. 4. 360° unobstructed "God's-eye view": Aerial panoramic vision, far surpassing cable cars and viewing platforms, truly seeing all the highlights of Queenstown at once. 5. Multiple height options suitable for all ages: Offers various skydiving height choices, available for ages 6 and up. 6. Tandem skydiving for beginners: Professional instructors provide one-on-one guidance throughout the experience, no prior skydiving experience required. 7. Complies with New Zealand safety standards: equipment, processes, and instructor qualifications have all met the high standards of New Zealand's aviation and safety regulatory system certification. 8. Scenic flight + free fall + dual gliding experience: First enjoy a scenic fixed-wing flight in Queenstown, followed by the thrill of high-speed free fall, then glide smoothly under the parachute to admire the scenery. 9. Free shuttle service in Queenstown downtown: Located in the heart of Queenstown, offering complimentary transfers year-round (weather permitting) for more flexible itinerary arrangements.

Queenstown · 67.7 km from Te Anau Downs
Shotover Jet Queenstown
No. 11 of Best Things to Do in New Zealand

Shotover Jet Queenstown

8.3
4.8/5
206 reviews

Shotover Jet Queenstown is the iconic speedboating experience in Queenstown, operating continuously in the Shotover Canyon since the 1960s and having hosted millions of travelers. It is also the only commercial speedboat company permitted to operate in this section of the canyon river. The river channel was formed by years of erosion from rapid currents, with nearly vertical rock walls on both sides enclosing the water surface. Located less than a ten-minute drive from Queenstown town center, it is now owned and operated by the local Māori tribe, Ngāi Tahu, whose ancestors once traveled this waterway to gather food and greenstone. The bright red speedboats are locally built in Queenstown, specifically designed for the canyon river. Each boat can carry over ten passengers and is powered by twin V8 engines, using jet propulsion for movement, steering, and control—allowing it to skim at speeds of nearly 90 km/h in water as shallow as approx. 10 cm. The entire experience lasts approx. 25 minutes, featuring continuous sharp turns and cliff-hugging maneuvers from the moment you depart the dock. Skilled drivers take you at high speed through whitewater rapids and tight bends, performing thrilling close-to-the-wall stunts, including the signature 360-degree spin at full throttle, sending water splashing into your face as if the boat has lifted off the surface. Life jackets and storage lockers are provided on board. As the spins generate significant splashes, it is advisable to prepare to get wet. During colder seasons, extra attention to warmth is recommended.

Queenstown · 70.1 km from Te Anau Downs

Experiences you can't miss in Te Anau Downs

Featured Day tours in Te Anau Downs

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New Zealand Milford Sound / Piopiotahi 1-day tour | Realnz direct booking | available from Queenstown/Te Anau
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4.9/5
· 85 reviews· 1.3k booked
Duration: 10.5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
22 consecutive positive reviews
FromPLN 578.52
1-day tour to Milford Sound / Piopiotahi with Southern Discoveries in New Zealand [Round-trip from Queenstown/Te Anau]
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FromPLN 497.52
New Zealand Milford Sound 1-Day Tour | Panoramic Bus + Fjord Cruise + Optional Buffet Lunch
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4.4/5
· 39 reviews· 1k booked
Duration: 11.3 hrs
English
Free cancellation
521 travelers saved
FromPLN 526.40
New Zealand Milford Sound / Piopiotahi 1-day tour for 16 people by Mercedes-Benz | Queenstown / small cruise / includes meal
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FromPLN 678.88
New Zealand Milford Sound / Piopiotahi 1-day tour 16-person group + Mercedes travel van + cruise + lunch included
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5.0/5
· 24 reviews· 806 booked
Duration: 12 hrs
English
Book now for tomorrow
24 consecutive positive reviews
FromPLN 696.76
New Zealand Milford Sound / Piopiotahi 1-day tour GS bus [Queenstown/Te Anau round-trip]
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FromPLN 494.70

Featured Spa & wellness in Te Anau Downs

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New Zealand Queenstown Onsen Hot Pools experience - private or shared tub options available
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FromPLN 171.20
Queenstown: Floating Sauna Experience on Lake Whakatipu
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5.0/5
· 26 reviews
Duration: 75 mins
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
26 consecutive positive reviews
FromPLN 163.95

Featured Culture & history in Te Anau Downs

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Free things to do in Te Anau Downs

What travelers say about Te Anau Downs

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旅の径October 11, 2020
4.0
New Zealand has many lakes, most of which are surrounded by mountains, with winding coastlines, clear water and pleasant scenery. They are excellent tourist destinations. Lake Te Anau is the second largest lake in New Zealand and the largest lake in the South Island. Compared with the famous "Two Wakatipu and One Te" (Lake Wakatipu, Lake Wanaka, and Lake Tekapo), the uniqueness and appreciation of the landscape are slightly inferior, and the popularity index is also lower. Because it is located on the main road to Milford Sound, there are endless tourists passing by and staying overnight in the lakeside town. The seaplanes on the lakeside take off and land, and the speedboats on the lake go in and out, which set off the blue sky and white clouds, the lake and the mountains, and have a unique charm.

Lake Te Anau

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Anonymous userOctober 22, 2026
5.0
Exploring the Te Anau Glowworm Caves was a truly unforgettable and educational highlight of our trip. Learning about the geological formation of the cave system—with its roaring underground waterfalls and ancient limestone rock—provided fascinating context before entering the main cavern. Discovering the intricate habitat and life cycle of the unique fungus gnat larvae (Arachnocampa luminosa) made the visit all the more insightful. Gliding quietly through the pitch-black darkness on a small boat while thousands of tiny glowworms illuminated the ceiling like a galaxy was pure magic. The tour was informative, well-guided, and undeniably captivating. Highly recommended for travelers seeking a unique mix of nature, science, and spectacular scenery!

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

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广州丁满February 21, 2020
4.0
A spectacular valley, the first place worth stopping when heading to Milford Sound National Park from Te Anau. Not far from Lake Te Anau along the road, after passing through a forest passage, the view suddenly opens up, with magnificent mountains and vast grasslands, which immediately make people's eyes bright. Whether it is self-driving, tour group chartered, or the two one-day tour buses operating Milford Sound Cruise Company, they often pull over here to let guests fully embrace nature. Continuing the journey, passing through another forest passage, we soon arrived at Mirror Lake, which is close to the end of the valley.

Eglinton Valley

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Shim_23October 26, 2026
5.0
One of the most unforgettable experiences of our New Zealand trip! 🇳🇿❤️ The moment we sailed through Milford Sound, we were surrounded by towering mountains, beautiful waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery everywhere we looked. It was one of those moments when you just put your phone down for a second and take it all in. Nature is truly amazing, and Milford Sound is even more beautiful in person. Definitely an experience we’ll always remember! ✨⛰️

Milford Sound Scenic Cruises

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华籍美娜November 1, 2026
4.0
The only downside was the lack of a sheep shearing show. The BBQ was great, and considering the price included food, it was definitely worth it. Overall, the boat trip was very relaxing, with the boat ride to the BBQ area taking about 40 minutes. It's a good option if you like a more leisurely pace of life, especially on a nice day. The only downside was the lack of a show, which made it a bit boring.

RealNZ | TSS Earnslaw Queenstown Cruise

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道治March 11, 2025
5.0
Skydiving is super fun, 15,000 feet, the free fall feels like life is free! The package comes with a handheld camera, with photos and videos. After the jump, it will be sent directly to your email for you to download. It takes about 20 minutes to drive to the base.

NZONE Skydive Queenstown

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_FB***24October 28, 2026
5.0
The views here are absolutely stunning! The luge ride was so much fun, and three rides definitely weren’t enough — we could have gone for more! The lamb at the buffet was also delicious. Overall, it was a fantastic experience and definitely worth it!

Skyline Queenstown

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🎀彡🐾May 27, 2020
5.0
Mirror Lake in Queenstown is a very beautiful and peaceful lake. Just like its name, it is like a huge mirror, lying there quietly, reflecting the blue sky and the surrounding endless snow-capped mountains. The scenery is really beautiful, and it is hard to tell whether it is the lake or the sky that is so beautiful.

Mirror Lakes

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Sherwin SolisOctober 16, 2026
5.0
​We blasted through the dramatic, towering walls of the Shotover Canyons at mind-bending speeds. Skimming over water that felt mere centimeters deep and executing those famous full 360-degree spins was pure exhilaration! Our driver was an absolute master at the helm—delivering maximum heart-pounding thrill while keeping everyone feeling completely safe and secure throughout the ride.​It’s an unforgettable experience to share together—equal parts breathtaking scenery and high-octane excitement. Easily one of the absolute highlights of our trip to New Zealand. 10/10 MUST DO!

Shotover Jet Queenstown

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Anonymous userOctober 1, 2026
5.0
Milford Sound is one of the most iconic natural landscapes on New Zealand's South Island, often hailed as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," and a UNESCO World Heritage Site within Fiordland National Park. The most classic experience here is a boat tour. The boat glides through the dark waters of the fjord, flanked by steep cliffs carved by glaciers. Mettler Peak soars into the clouds, and Bowen and Stirling Falls flow year-round. After rain, countless temporary waterfalls cascade down the cliffs, creating a truly breathtaking spectacle. With luck, you might spot seals basking on the rocks, or even encounter dolphins and Fiordland penguins. Overall, Milford Sound isn't a "check-off" destination; it's best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. The waterfalls are often more spectacular on rainy days, so don't let rain deter you from your trip. If you have ample time, consider departing from Te Anau or opting for an overnight cruise to avoid the daytime crowds and create a more immersive experience.

Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

Trip Moments in Te Anau Downs

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What are the must-do things in Te Anau Downs?

Don't miss these attractions in Te Anau Downs: Lake Te Anau, Te Anau Glowworm Caves, and Eglinton Valley. If you like Food & drink, try New Zealand Queenstown TSS Earnslaw+ Farm Tour/BBQ Lunch/Dinner. If you enjoy Day tours, try New Zealand Milford Sound / Piopiotahi 1-day tour | Realnz direct booking | available from Queenstown/Te Anau.

You can give New Zealand Queenstown TSS Earnslaw+ Farm Tour/BBQ Lunch/Dinner and Stratosfare buffet at Queenstown hilltop view restaurant | Window-side view seats · Includes round-trip cable car [Luge scooter experience can be added] a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include New Zealand Milford Sound / Piopiotahi 1-day tour | Realnz direct booking | available from Queenstown/Te Anau, 1-day tour to Milford Sound / Piopiotahi with Southern Discoveries in New Zealand [Round-trip from Queenstown/Te Anau], and New Zealand Milford Sound 1-Day Tour | Panoramic Bus + Fjord Cruise + Optional Buffet Lunch. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of November 8, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Te Anau Downs is around PLN 494.7 – PLN 873.68. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.