Best Accommodation in Te Anau: Our Top 14 Places to Stay

Looking for the best options for accommodation in Te Anau? I’ve got you completely covered!

When it comes to Te Anau accommodation, there’s a lot of different options to choose from. Here you’ll find luxury lodges, lakeside motels, cute B&Bs and family friendly accommodation to suit a variety of tastes and budgets.

So how do you pick the right one? Well, you’re in the right place because I’ve done the homework for you, and the 14 best places to stay in Te Anau are all featured here.

How can I be sure they’re the best places to stay in Te Anau? I’ve lived in New Zealand for decades and visit Fiordland often, so I know all the best areas and hotels Te Anau has to offer from recent first hand experience.

Te Anau is known as the gateway to Fiordland, known for its breathtaking landscapes, adventurous hiking trails and not to mention incredible scenic cruises through the fiords.

A visit to Fiordland National Park is a must-do experience and one of the most popular travel destinations in New Zealand.

In this article I’m sharing our top recommendations of where to stay in Te Anau for each category, along with a few other options that are also worth considering. 

Where to Stay in Te Anau

Finding the best accommodation is an important step when planning your holiday. Fiordland features on most New Zealand South Island itineraries because it’s filled with beautiful places to explore and fun activities to do. So it’s worth your while to spend a few nights in Te Anau which will make things a lot easier.

Although a small town, Te Anau is filled with great restaurants and useful amenities such as a grocery stores, gas stations and souvenir shops. It’s a popular base for exploring Fiordland National Park due to its close proximity to both Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. 

In fact, Te Anau is where the drive to Milford Sound, and the many scenic places to stop along the way, begins. It’s also a short 20-minute drive to Manapouri, and the starting point for cruises to Doubtful Sound. 

Te Anau is also an ideal base if you’re doing the Milford, Kepler or Routeburn Tracks, three of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Not to mention all the fun things there is to see and do right in Te Anau.

It’s the perfect travel destination for families, couples and adventurers alike. The best thing is, being a small town, you won’t be too far from town center and all its conveniences whichever property you choose to stay at.

However, if you want views, be sure to pick a property right on the lakeshore.

Best Te Anau Luxury Accommodation

For the ultimate experience here are our top Te Anau hotels that offers 5-star luxury without compromising on comfort. 

1. Fiordland Lodge [$$$]

State Highway 94 Milford Sound, Southland 9679

For the ultimate stay in a World Heritage area look no further than Fiordland Lodge. With near perfect 5 star reviews it’s the top choice for a bucket-list accommodation experience, perfect for a special occasion or making the most of a once in a lifetime trip to this unique part of the world. 

Located just outside Te Anau town center, Fiordland Lodge is set on a vast piece of land with views of Lake Te Anau and the Murchison mountains. And there are plenty of opportunities to make the most of those views with floor to ceiling glass walls in a spacious lounge. I especially love the cozy stone fireplace.

There is a fabulous bar and restaurant on site plus an awesome team that will help you create the perfect itinerary to ensure you make the most of your time in Fiordland.

But a highlight of the property has to be the rustic outdoor hot tub with front row seats to the beautiful Lake Te Anau. Imagine watching the sun set over the lake, enveloped in the warm bubbly water with a glass of wine in hand…pure bliss!

You can choose to stay in one of the luxurious rooms in the lodge or a self-contained log cabin that is separate from the lodge, offering more privacy. Each room has access to views of the lake via a private balcony or outdoor lawn area.

Fiordland Lodge offers the best of both worlds…luxury with the comforts of a cozy cabin experience. 

2. Radfords on the Lake [$$$]

56 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau 9600

Radfords on the Lake is our other top choice for a luxury hotel in Te Anau town center.

Located just across the road from Lake Te Anau, you can choose from a range of room types from studios to lakeview suites and even a two bedroom apartment, ideal for families or couples travelling together. 

Each unit comes with a kitchenette and fantastic amenities including use of the outdoor BBQ area. On top of that, guests have access to mountain bikes free of charge.

The Lakeview Suites offer views of the lake and surrounding mountains right from your room. But whatever room type you choose, you really can’t beat the location, just a stones throw from the lake and only a few minutes walk to the great selection of bars and restaurants.

If you’re looking luxury accommodation with exceptional service in the heart of Te Anau town center, this is a great choice. 

Here are a couple of other luxury accommodation options you may like to consider.

3. Dunluce Bed and Breakfast [$$$]

128 Aparima Drive, Te Anau 9600

If you prefer B&B style accommodation without compromising on luxury, we highly recommend you check out Dunluce Boutique B&B for your Te Anau accommodation.

It’s located just a 5-minute drive or 15-walk from Te Anau town center but feels like a world away. The large section of beautifully landscaped gardens, cozy fireplace in the lounge and well-appointed rooms overlooking the lake and mountains, creates the comforts of home in an idyllic paradise.

You’ll have access to a full range of amenities you’d expect from a B&B such as tea, coffee, books, games and magazines, with a few extras including a complimentary snack station.

Each room has its own private outdoor area to enjoy a glass of wine while gazing at the stars, and after a good night’s sleep you’ll be treated to a cooked or continental breakfast freshly prepared from local ingredients.

Here, you’ll experience southern hospitality at its finest in a truly relaxing environment.

4. Milford Sound Lodge [$$$]

State Highway 94, Milford Sound 9679

Milford Sound Lodge is technically located outside of Te Anau, in fact it’s located in the heart of Milford Sound, a 2-hour drive from Te Anau. However, being the only accommodation in Milford Sound, it’s a unique and memorable experience that is definitely worth considering.

They offer a range of room types from chalets to 2-bedroom suites. We recommend booking the Premium Riverside Chalet for the ultimate ‘pinch-me’ experience.

As the name suggests, they are positioned alongside the Cleddau River offering seclusion amongst the towering peaks, where you can enjoy a glass of wine on your deck while listening to the sounds the river flowing past.

In the morning, you’ll be serenaded by native birds as you enjoy a delicious breakfast delivered straight to your room. It truly is a spectacular experience.

The rainforest campervan site is their budget-friendly option located next to the lodge. Perfect for those embarking on the ultimate road trip to Milford Sound.

Guests have access to a well-equipped kitchen, a guest laundry and lounge area. Alternatively, the Pio Pio restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner from a menu that focuses on locally-sourced ingredients.

A stay in Milford Lodge is an experience like no other. Being the only accommodation in Milford Sound with limited availability, be sure to book as early as possible to ensure you don’t miss out.

Best Affordable Luxury Accommodation in Te Anau

If you’re after something that’s more affordable but without compromising on quality or comfort, here are our top choices. 

5. Fiordland Lakeview Motel & Apartments [$$]

42 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau 9600

Fiordland Lakeview Motel & Apartments is a great option for affordable luxury accommodation in Te Anau.

Located on the shores of Lake Te Anau and a short 10-minute walk to the town center, you’ll have the best of everything…convenience, stylish rooms and an idyllic setting.

They offer spacious studios and one-bedroom apartments. Each unit has a kitchenette, ensuite bathroom and lounge. We recommend booking a Lakeview Apartment where you can enjoy stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains from your private balcony or patio.

There is even a tour desk on site with friendly staff to help with booking tours and excursions.

Fiordland Lakeview Motel & Apartments is an ideal choice for modern, clean and comfortable rooms with amazing views in walking distance to town.

6. Blue Ridge Studios and Bed & Breakfast [$$]

15 Melland Place, Te Anau 9600

Blue Ridge Studios is a charming cottage set amongst a beautiful garden in a quiet residential neighborhood, and a short easy walk to Te Anau town center.

It’s a great option if you enjoy the personal touches of a B&B but also like some privacy. The three studios are separate to the main house, each with their own entrance, ensuite bathroom with underfloor heating and kitchenette.

You have the option to book on a room-only basis or include breakfast for the full B&B experience. Breakfast is fresh and plentiful including a full cooked breakfast and freshly baked pastries. And, if you are heading out early in the morning, you can have a breakfast hamper delivered to your studio the night before.   

The attention to detail does not go unnoticed with thoughtful décor, plenty of amenities and extra little touches. They will even help with tour bookings and recommendations on what to do while there.

On a nice day, guests can make use of the outdoor area complete with a BBQ and hot tub.

Blue Ridge Studios is an ideal choice if you’re looking for peace and quiet with the convenience of being close to town.

7. Marakura Deluxe Motel [$$]

77 Te Anau – Manapouri Highway, Te Anau 9640

Marakura Deluxe Motel is located on the southern end of Lake Te Anau, a short drive from the town center and all the amenities. It’s near to plenty of outdoor activities including hiking trails and Marakura wharf, a great spot to watch the sun set over the lake.

There are a variety of units to choose from including studios and apartments, each with a private bathroom and some with kitchen facilities. If you opt for a room without a kitchen don’t worry, there is a shared kitchen, lounge and terrace area for guests to use.

The spacious and well laid out rooms are a great option for families. There is even a playground on site.

But the best part is the views! Each room has stunning views of the lake and mountains from your private balcony or ground floor patio.

This is a great option for families and those looking for a convenient base from which to explore Te Anau.

For something a little different you might also like to consider this option.

8. Kepler Oaks Chalet [$$]

207 William Stephen Road, Te Anau 9679

If you love animals and want to experience the rural Fiordland lifestyle, without being too far from town, the Kepler Oaks Chalet may be just the one for you.

This two bedroom chalet is located on 13 acres within Fiordland National Park Scenic Reserve, with the Waiau River running close by. You’ll have all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay including free Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen, spa bath, log burner or heat pump and laundry facilities, plus a lovely porch where you can sit and enjoy the views.

The location is a holiday in itself. Being away from town and any light pollution, you can enjoy stargazing from your private outdoor hot tub.

And it’s an absolute haven for animal lovers! Guests can help feed the chickens, rabbits, dog and cat and watch the horses, alpaca, sheep and lambs frolicking about. You can also go horse-riding right on site.

Additionally, guests are welcome to use the fishing equipment and bicycles free of charge.

Here you’ll have an ‘off the beaten path’ experience but still within a 5-minute drive to Te Anau town center.

Best Budget-Friendly Te Anau Accommodation

Staying in Fiordland doesn’t have to cost a lot. There is plenty of choice when it comes to budget-friendly accommodation in Te Anau. To help you narrow it down, here are our top picks. 

9. Aden Motel [$]

57-59 Quintin Drive, Te Anau 9600

The Aden Motel offers great value for money and is our top choice for budget-friendly motels in Te Anau.

This eco-friendly motel offers comfortable self-contained rooms thoughtfully decorated in fresh and modern tones. Each room has an ensuite bathroom, its own kitchenette and access to free Wi-Fi.

The property is located in a private garden setting and a 2-minute walk to Lake Te Anau or a 15-minute walk to Te Anau town center.

Guests have access to an outdoor area including BBQ facilities and a children’s playground to enjoy on the warm summer days.

Not only that, but they have laundry facilities handy for those coming back from one of the big walks in the area.

There is also a tour desk to help organise local activities which is a nice added touch and super convenient.

Overall, this is a great option for environmentally conscious travellers looking for a spacious place to stay without compromising the budget.

Here are a couple of other budget-friendly motels you might like to consider.

10. Bella Vista Motel [$]

9 Mokoroa Street, Te Anau 9600

Bella Vista Motel is conveniently located within a 5-minute walk to town and 200 meters from Lake Te Anau, a great option for those without a car.

There are a variety of studio and one-bedroom apartments to choose from, each tastefully decorated and some including cooking facilities. You can also opt for a continental breakfast and / or evening meals that can be organised for you for an additional charge.

Self-service laundry facilities are available on site making it a good option for longer stays.

Overall, Bella Vista Motel is a great choice for clean and comfortable rooms close to town.

11. Alpine View Motel [$]

15 Quintin Drive, Te Anau 9600

The Alpine View Motel is another budget-friendly option in a great location, only 100 meters from Lake Te Anau and a 5-minute walk from the departure points for Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound tours.

They offer a selection of studios and apartments, each including a fridge/freezer, microwave and hotplates. Some even have a private balcony. The property has beautiful views of the mountains, and use of a playground and BBQ facilities.

Families might like to consider the apartments which include an extra sofa and access to Disney+ channels.

The Alpine View Motel was one of the first motels in the area and still a popular choice thanks to their warm service and family friendly atmosphere.

12. Lakeside Motel & Apartments [$]

36 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau 9600

The Lakeside Motel & Apartments are located just across from Lake Te Anau and walking distance to town center.

Guests can choose between a studio, or a one or two bedroom apartment. All offer full kitchen facilities and some even have views of the lake.

We stayed in a one-bedroom apartment during our recent visit and although the furnishings were a bit dated, it was incredibly spacious and had a huge bathtub – perfect for soaking sore muscles after our hike to Lake Marian.

Lakeside Motel & Apartments is a good budget-friendly choice for families or couples travelling together needing some extra space.

Best Holiday Parks in Te Anau

If you’re embarking on the ultimate road trip to Te Anau or looking for the most affordable places to stay in Te Anau, these holiday parks are definitely worth considering. 

13. Tasman Holiday Park [$]

128 Te Anau Terrace, Te Anau 9600

The Tasman Holiday Park is in a great location, only a 5-minute walk to town center and all the amenities. Guests can choose from chalets, studios or self-contained apartments.

All offer a refrigerator and some chalets and apartments have a fully equipped kitchen and private ensuite, perfect for longer stays. 

There is a large communal kitchen, hot tub, BBQ facilities and lounge area for guests to use. 

There is even a playground for the kids and fabulous sauna for the adults. 

14. Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park & Motels [$]

77 Te Anau-Manapouri Highway, Te Anau 9640

Located 2km from town center, the Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park & Motels offers a variety of accommodation options from campsites to self-contained studios, bungalows and private rooms, some with cooking facilities and a private balcony.

There is an awesome playground on site for the kids and a sauna for the adults, plus spacious communal areas. 

Park staff can assistant with tour and activity bookings as well as airport shuttles. 

A great low cost option for backpackers, road-trippers and families alike. 

Conclusion

Accommodation in Te Anau is plentiful with options to suit a range of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re after a low cost option or a luxurious bucket-list experience, Fiordland has it all. We hope our top picks helps you choose the best Te Anau accommodation for an enjoyable stay in one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand.

If you’re travelling from or heading to Invercargill next, check out all the best places to stop along the Southern Scenic Route.

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