Te Anau

Lake Te Anau (tay-ah-no), which is 53 km (33 miles) long and up to 10 km (6 miles) wide, is the largest lake in New Zealand after Lake Taupo. The town of Te Anau, on the southern shores, serves as a base for Fiordland National Park. From Te Anau, you can set out on sightseeing trips by bus, boat, or plane to Milford and Doubtful sounds, or take off on one of the park's superb hiking trails. Of these, the most accessible to town is the Kepler Track. The town itself is very quiet and rural, but it does have its attractions and is very picturesque. It's busiest in summer; in winter, some cafés and shops close or reduce their hours.