Animal Encounter Te Anau
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informationvenue Details
- Packages start from NZ$290.00
NZ$ Prices
From NZ$290.00
Te Anau to Dunedin via the Catlins and Invercargill (one-way tour)
Discover the Rugged Beauty of the Catlins – Te Anau
to Dunedin Small Group Tour
Experience the wild southern coast on this unforgettable
full-day journey from Te Anau to Dunedin. Travel in comfort through the remote
Catlins region – a land of dramatic seascapes, ancient forests, rare wildlife,
and hidden treasures. With guided storytelling, scenic stops, and plenty of
time to explore, this small-group tour is the perfect way to discover one of
New Zealand’s most untouched corners.
Depart Te Anau (7:00am)
We begin our adventure with pickups from central Te Anau accommodation and head
southeast toward the remote beauty of the Catlins. Enjoy the changing
landscapes as we leave Fiordland and enter the Southland countryside.
Invercargill – Gateway to the South (Optional Stop/Start)
A brief stop in Invercargill offers a chance to stretch your legs or
join/disembark the tour. Guests from the city can begin or end their journey
here at approximately 9:00 AM.
Curio Bay – Prehistoric Forest & Marine Life
Step onto the fossilised remains of a 180-million-year-old petrified forest at
Curio Bay (visible at low tide). Keep watch for yellow-eyed penguins and
Hector’s dolphins that frequent the shoreline.
Alternative: If tides allow, we may visit the stunning
Cathedral Caves—towering sea caverns accessible via a scenic walk (entry fee
applies).
Papatowai – Lunch & The Lost Gypsy Caravan
We stop in the quiet Catlins village of Papatowai for lunch and a chance to
visit the unique Lost Gypsy Caravan, a whimsical gallery of kinetic art,
curiosities, and handmade wonders that never fail to surprise.
Purakaunui Falls – Forest Gem
Take a short, easy walk through lush native forest to reach one of New
Zealand’s most photographed waterfalls—Purakaunui Falls. Its tiered cascade
makes for a peaceful and photogenic stop.
Nugget Point Lighthouse – Ocean Views & Wildlife
A gentle coastal walk leads us to the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse, where
panoramic views and dramatic sea stacks await. Spot fur seals, seabirds, and
the raw power of the Southern Ocean from this spectacular lookout.
Arrive in Dunedin – Early Evening
We conclude our journey in Dunedin with drop-offs at your central
accommodation. Known for its Scottish heritage, vibrant student life, and
stunning architecture, Dunedin is a great place to end your southern
adventure—or begin the next one.
Tour Inclusions:
- Small
group experience (max 15 guests) - Fully
guided by local experts - Travel
in a luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle - Water
and snacks provided - Hotel
drop-off in Invercargill
At Cheeky Kiwi Travel, we believe that travel should
inspire, surprise, and connect you with the heart of a place. That’s why our
tours are thoughtfully designed with passionate guides, secret stops, and a
commitment to personal, unforgettable experiences.
Got questions? Visit our FAQs page — we’re here to help!
Discover the Rugged Beauty of the Catlins – Te Anauto Dunedin Small Group Tour
Experience the wild southern coast on this unforgettable
full-day journey from Te Anau to Dunedin. Travel in comfort through the remote
Catlins region – a land of dramatic seascapes, ancient forests, rare wildlife,
and hidden treasures. With guided storytelling, scenic stops, and plenty of
time to explore, this small-group tour is the perfect way to discover one of
New Zealand’s most untouched corners.
Depart Te Anau (7:00am)
We begin our adventure with pickups from central Te Anau accommodation and head
southeast toward the remote beauty of the Catlins. Enjoy the changing
landscapes as we leave Fiordland and enter the Southland countryside.
Invercargill – Gateway to the South (Optional Stop/Start)
A brief stop in Invercargill offers a chance to stretch your legs or
join/disembark the tour. Guests from the city can begin or end their journey
here at approximately 9:00 AM.
Curio Bay – Prehistoric Forest & Marine Life
Step onto the fossilised remains of a 180-million-year-old petrified forest at
Curio Bay (visible at low tide). Keep watch for yellow-eyed penguins and
Hector’s dolphins that frequent the shoreline.
Alternative: If tides allow, we may visit the stunning
Cathedral Caves—towering sea caverns accessible via a scenic walk (entry fee
applies).
Papatowai – Lunch & The Lost Gypsy Caravan
We stop in the quiet Catlins village of Papatowai for lunch and a chance to
visit the unique Lost Gypsy Caravan, a whimsical gallery of kinetic art,
curiosities, and handmade wonders that never fail to surprise.
Purakaunui Falls – Forest Gem
Take a short, easy walk through lush native forest to reach one of New
Zealand’s most photographed waterfalls—Purakaunui Falls. Its tiered cascade
makes for a peaceful and photogenic stop.
Nugget Point Lighthouse – Ocean Views & Wildlife
A gentle coastal walk leads us to the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse, where
panoramic views and dramatic sea stacks await. Spot fur seals, seabirds, and
the raw power of the Southern Ocean from this spectacular lookout.
Arrive in Dunedin – Early Evening
We conclude our journey in Dunedin with drop-offs at your central
accommodation. Known for its Scottish heritage, vibrant student life, and
stunning architecture, Dunedin is a great place to end your southern
adventure—or begin the next one.
Tour Inclusions:
Small
group experience (max 15 guests)
Fully
guided by local experts
Travel
in a luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle
Water
and snacks provided
Hotel
drop-off in Invercargill
At Cheeky Kiwi Travel, we believe that travel should
inspire, surprise, and connect you with the heart of a place. That’s why our
tours are thoughtfully designed with passionate guides, secret stops, and a
commitment to personal, unforgettable experiences.
Got questions? Visit our FAQs page — we’re here to help!
Restrictions
- people Group Size: From 1 Up To 15
From NZ$369.00
Te Anau to Queenstown via Milford Sound Premium Small Group Tour, Cruise & Picnic Lunch
Milford Sound Tour & Cruise, this small group, fully-guided day trip begins with a pickup from your hotel lobby in one of our luxury Mercedes-Benz vans from Te Anau and dropoff at your hotel in Queenstown. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses that are packed with extras, ensuring your comfort and safety.
Highlights:
- Boutique Milford Sound Cruise
- Fiordland National Park
- Lake Te Anau, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford River, Homer Tunnel & Mitre Peak
- Wildlife Spotting
Itinerary:
Te Anau – Your tour begins in the tranquil lakeside town of Te Anau, home to New Zealand’s second-largest lake. After a short exploration and the chance to spot local wildlife, we head to Te Anau Downs, the starting point of the famous Milford Track, where you’ll hear captivating stories and admire stunning lake views.
Eglinton Valley – We enter Fiordland National Park and make our first major stop at Eglinton Valley. With glacier-carved landscapes that look straight out of a movie, this valley sets the scene for the dramatic journey ahead
Mirror Lakes – A short walk leads us to Mirror Lakes, where on a calm day, the reflections of the Earl Mountains in the still waters are so perfect they seem surreal.
Lake Gunn – Next, we visit Lake Gunn, a peaceful alpine lake named after an early explorer. The scenery is ideal for a photo stop and to enjoy a moment of quiet among the mountains.
Hollyford River & Falls Creek – We continue alongside the roaring Hollyford River, stopping to admire Falls Creek and the impressive, thundering waterfall that feeds it.
Darran Mountains – As we ascend into the Darran Mountain range, we'll stop to take in the awe-inspiring views and hopefully spot a Kea, New Zealand’s clever and cheeky alpine parrot.
Homer Tunnel – We pass through the remarkable, hand-carved Homer Tunnel. Emerging on the other side, be prepared for jaw-dropping views and (on rainy days) hundreds of temporary waterfalls cascading down sheer cliffs.
Milford Sound – We arrive at world-renowned Milford Sound, where you’ll embark on a boutique cruise with Cruise Milford. Enjoy a more intimate and informative experience on a smaller boat, getting up close to fur seals, towering cliffs, and spectacular waterfalls.
Mitre Peak – During the cruise, marvel at the iconic Mitre Peak, a soaring mountain rising dramatically from the water. One of New Zealand’s most photographed landmarks.
Pop's View Lookout – After your cruise, we begin the return journey. Our first stop is Pop's View, offering panoramic views of the Southern Alps near the start of the Routeburn Track. Your guide will share ancient Māori stories connected to these lands
Te Anau – We return to Te Anau for a short break before continuing our scenic drive toward Queenstown
Devils Staircase – As we follow the shores of Lake Wakatipu, we encounter the winding Devils Staircase, a dramatic stretch of road with epic views.
Lake Wakatipu – The drive continues along Lake Wakatipu, offering sweeping vistas of the lake and The Remarkables mountain range.
Queenstown – Your journey concludes in the adventure capital of New Zealand – Queenstown. Your guide will point out highlights as we arrive in the vibrant lakeside city.
Inclusions:
- Small Group & Fully Guided Tour
- Cruise Entry
- Picnic Lunch
- Water available & snacks provided
- Exclusions
- Picnic lunch for infants (0-3)
- pickup from hotels not listed
Optional Extras:
- One way helicopter or fixed wing flight from Milford to Queenstown
- Maximum weight limit 116 KG per person for helicopter
- Maximum weight limit 130 KG per person for plane
While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it’s our small groups, guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
For further information on luggage, pickup locations, cancellation policy etc please read our FAQ's
Highlights: Boutique Milford Sound Cruise Fiordland National Park Lake Te Anau, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford River, Homer Tunnel & Mitre Peak Wildlife Spotting
Itinerary:
Te Anau – Your tour begins in the tranquil lakeside town of Te Anau, home to New Zealand’s second-largest lake. After a short exploration and the chance to spot local wildlife, we head to Te Anau Downs , the starting point of the famous Milford Track, where you’ll hear captivating stories and admire stunning lake views.
Eglinton Valley – We enter Fiordland National Park and make our first major stop at Eglinton Valley. With glacier-carved landscapes that look straight out of a movie, this valley sets the scene for the dramatic journey ahead
Mirror Lakes – A short walk leads us to Mirror Lakes, where on a calm day, the reflections of the Earl Mountains in the still waters are so perfect they seem surreal.
Lake Gunn – Next, we visit Lake Gunn, a peaceful alpine lake named after an early explorer. The scenery is ideal for a photo stop and to enjoy a moment of quiet among the mountains.
Hollyford River & Falls Creek – We continue alongside the roaring Hollyford River, stopping to admire Falls Creek and the impressive, thundering waterfall that feeds it.
Darran Mountains – As we ascend into the Darran Mountain range, we'll stop to take in the awe-inspiring views and hopefully spot a Kea, New Zealand’s clever and cheeky alpine parrot.
Homer Tunnel – We pass through the remarkable, hand-carved Homer Tunnel. Emerging on the other side, be prepared for jaw-dropping views and (on rainy days) hundreds of temporary waterfalls cascading down sheer cliffs.
Milford Sound – We arrive at world-renowned Milford Sound, where you’ll embark on a boutique cruise with Cruise Milford. Enjoy a more intimate and informative experience on a smaller boat, getting up close to fur seals , towering cliffs, and spectacular waterfalls.
Mitre Peak – During the cruise, marvel at the iconic Mitre Peak, a soaring mountain rising dramatically from the water. One of New Zealand’s most photographed landmarks.
Pop's View Lookout – After your cruise, we begin the return journey. Our first stop is Pop's View , offering panoramic views of the Southern Alps near the start of the Routeburn Track. Your guide will share ancient Māori stories connected to these lands
Te Anau – We return to Te Anau for a short break before continuing our scenic drive toward Queenstown
Devils Staircase – As we follow the shores of Lake Wakatipu, we encounter the winding Devils Staircase , a dramatic stretch of road with epic views.
Lake Wakatipu – The drive continues along Lake Wakatipu, offering sweeping vistas of the lake and The Remarkables mountain range.
Queenstown – Your journey concludes in the adventure capital of New Zealand – Queenstown. Your guide will point out highlights as we arrive in the vibrant lakeside city.
Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour Cruise Entry Picnic Lunch Water available & snacks provided Exclusions Picnic lunch for infants (0-3) pickup from hotels not listed
Optional Extras: One way helicopter or fixed wing flight from Milford to Queenstown Maximum weight limit 116 KG per person for helicopter Maximum weight limit 130 KG per person for plane Please note : Individual and total weight restrictions apply to specific aircraft and flights as listed above
While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it’s our small groups, guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
For further information on luggage, pickup locations, cancellation policy etc please read our FAQ's
Restrictions
- people Group Size: From 1 Up To 15
today Check Availability
directions Location
Address:
- Te Anau
Maps and directions used on our website are for guide purposes only. Please use the directions supplied with your booking confirmation when making travel arrangements.
Also at this location
Venue Ref: 1016268-268