Self Drive Tour Of New Zealand South Island
Our self drive tour of New Zealand’s South Island takes in some of the area’s most spectacular destinations and packs...
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Multi centre holidays
Fiordland and Te Anau holidays in New Zealand’s South Island are an adventurer’s dream, with majestic forest scenery, breath-taking waterfalls, crystal-clear waters, a medley of exotic wildlife, and scenic treks. Book your trip of a lifetime in this unspoilt part of the world with your nearest and dearest.
To fully unearth all the wonderful sights and sounds of the Fiordlands and Te Anau Lake - a UNESCO World Heritage site - travel by boat or air. Hop on board a beautiful cruise boat to see the intriguing network of limestone caves, complete with ethereal glowworms that light the way. Or take a helicopter tour to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the spectacular vegetation and thundering waterfalls. Once you’re back on land, get to know the area with numerous walking trails, including the Milford Track and Kepler Track.
Fiordland and Te Anau holidays: home to nature
Boat cruises from Te Anau town offer the opportunity to get up close to the Fiordland’s dramatic cliffs, with the option to kayak around the lesser seen and lesser trodden parts. It’s perfect for explorers and curious minds. Guided walks are ideal for learning about the history of the area, with routes that include the delightful Clinton River. Rest overnight in the tranquillity of a luxurious lodge and find out what it really means to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep.
While you’re in the South Island, we recommend a two day escorted tour to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, where penguins, seals and dolphins are frequently spotted. Or if you have more time, why not sign up for a longer trip and visit much loved spots like Kaikoura? Indulge in some whale spotting and then sample some of the region’s best tipples with a wine tasting tour in Marlborough – particularly popular with honeymooners and older couples. Our multi-centre holidays in Fiordland and Te Anau are also a great choice for travellers wanting to enjoy New Zealand to the fullest.
Great sample itineraries
Get inspired by our selection of popular itineraries and plan your tailor-made Fiordland and Te Anau holiday with our expert guides. Explore the wonders of Milford and Doubtful Sound, the glowworm caves and Underwater Observatory.
Small Group Escorted Tour Of New Zealand
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Escorted tours holidays
Auckland To Christchurch Tour
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New Zealand Splendour
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Explore Fiordland and Te Anau
Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is a spectacular stretch of world heritage landscape full of mountains and luscious valleys, sparkling lakes and ancient forests. The park stretches out over 1.2 million hectares and includes protected plants and wildlife, including flightless birds, parrots and more. In the rivers you’ll find native fish and New Zealand jade (pounamu) as well as crystal clear waters perfect for kayaking.
Milford Sound
This pristine stretch of clear, deep waters is home to emerald green rainforests, thundering waters and spectacular wildlife. The only fiord in New Zealand, it remains unspoilt thanks to its UNESCO World Heritage status. Take a boat trip, kayak or even scuba dive through the fiord where you can see seals, dolphins, penguins and even rare black coral reefs.
Te Anau Glow Worm Caves
Take a boat across Lake Te Anau to the extensive network of caves which date back over 12,000 years. Created by the river and offering a unique combination of swirling shapes, you can wander through the caves or take a boat ride and admire the spectacular glow worms as they twinkle on the ceilings.
Lake Te Anau
Lake Te Anau is the second largest lake in New Zealand and is surrounded by three fiords and beautiful hills. It’s ideal for those wanting to try water sports, including kayaking trips and boat trips. The local wildlife centre is home to protected local bird species, including kaka, wood pigeons, parakeets, takahe and weka, where you can learn about these unique animals and the dangers which face them.
Best time to visit Fiordland and Te Anau
The weather can be unpredictable in this mountainous region of New Zealand, so it’s wise to be prepared. However, visiting during the winter period, when it’s quieter and less rainy - around July - can often be the best time to go to the Fiordland and Te Anau, with temperatures around 1°C - 9°C. January and February are the warmest months to visit, with temperatures between 10°C – 18°C. Watch out for avalanche season, with the risk at its highest between August – November.
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“The New Zealand's South Island Fiordlands are like something from a postcard. The scenery is spectacular and the best way to see it is with a Milford Sound cruise. You’re sure to get up close to the thundering waterfalls and see lots of native wildlife.”
“Entry to Te Anau Bird Sanctuary is completely free and well worth a visit. Very rare birds such as kaka, morepork, takahe and parakeets can be found here. You can learn about these incredible creatures and the specialist breeding programmes and rehabilitation schemes run by the sanctuary.”
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The Hayes & Jarvis Way
We've been tailor making holidays for 65 years. With over 60 destinations to choose from, talk to us and we'll listen to your travel ideas to create unforgettable holiday experiences.