Rainy weather doesn’t have to put a dampener on your Te Anau adventure. Whether you’re exploring Fiordland on holiday or looking for things to do locally before heading to Milford Sound, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy when the skies open. From cosy eateries and local attractions to wildlife encounters and scenic drives, here are some of the best rainy day activities in Te Anau. A little bit of water can’t spoil the fun!
Visit Fiordland Cinema for a Cosy Rainy Day Activity
Why watch a boring TV show at home when you can see a new release movie in the comfort of our local Fiordland Cinema? Whether you prefer horror, something a little cheesy, an informative documentary, or an animated film to keep the kids occupied, Fiordland Cinema has you covered.
All that’s left to do is grab the popcorn and be entertained. The latest and greatest films are being shown now! Venture down to 7 The Lane, Te Anau.
Head to the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre
A trip to the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre should be high on your list of things to do in Te Anau. Here, you can pick up helpful Te Anau travel guides and learn more about our Great Walks, backcountry tracks, short walks, and family-friendly activities. The Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre also has interactive displays and information on conservation projects.
Browse Te Anau Shops and Pick Up Souvenirs
A little bit of rain shouldn’t stop you from doing a little retail therapy! Shop ‘til you drop at some of Te Anau’s most well-established businesses.
Whether you need new merino wool clothing, hiking gear, a good book to get stuck into, or NZ-made souvenirs, you’re spoilt for choice. Grab your umbrella and wander down Town Centre to see what you can find.
Visit the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary
Is the rain starting to ease up a little? It’s time to head back outdoors. The Punanga Manu o Te Anau/Te Anau Bird Sanctuary is one of the most remarkable Fiordland attractions for locals and visitors alike.
Set on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary is a short 20-minute walk from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre. It offers a unique opportunity to see birds that are otherwise difficult to see in the wild.
The Sanctuary is free to visit for self-guided tours and offers fun activities for kids. Visitors can also take advantage of the public toilets, picnic tables, and spring water tap!
From takahē and pateke to Antipodes Island parakeets and tui, there are so many beautiful birds to see in our wonderful slice of paradise.
Take a Scenic Drive to Manapouri
Whether you’re a local or visitor, grab a bag of Werther’s Originals and Oddfellows, bundle up the kids, and take a short road trip to Manapouri. There’s truly something special about visiting Lake Manapouri in any weather! Stop at the lakeside, watch the mist roll over the mountains, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere… (you may have to tell the kids to shoosh for that part).
Do a Photography Walk
Did you know that rain creates some of Te Anau’s best photo conditions? If you love dabbling in photography, put on your best pair of gumboots, arm yourself with an umbrella and camera, and head outside!
It’s hard not to be mesmerised by the Murchison Mountains, or Te Puhi-a-noa, the reflections on Lake Te Anau, and the waterfalls appearing on surrounding cliffs. Even the moody forest scenes offer something special. If you’re in the midst of Te Anau holiday planning, don’t forget to add wet-weather gear to your ‘must-pack’ list so you don’t miss opportunities like this because of soggy pants!
Enjoy a Te Anau Cafe Crawl
If you love experiencing the best of local cuisine, make a day of it. Gather your nearest and dearest and plan a cafe crawl to try some of your local establishments’ finest cuisine. Start with a coffee-and-cake stop before venturing to a new place for a long lunch.
Next, find an establishment offering dinner with local wine or craft beer. The award-winning gastropub, The Fat Duck, which was voted New Zealand’s Best Gastropub 2025, is a local favourite!
Spend a Relaxing Afternoon at Te Anau Library
There are few better ways to spend a dreary day in Te Anau than cuddled up on the couch with a good book. If nothing catches your fancy at home, head to the Te Anau Library at 24 Milford Crescent.
Our fine-free library is in the heart of the town centre and offers books, device charging, programmes for children and adults, and, of course, books by your favourite authors!
Escape the Rain at The Fat Duck in Te Anau
Be one of the lucky ducks who escape the rain and join us at The Fat Duck at 124 Town Centre in Te Anau, Fiordland. Our warm and welcoming gastropub offers outstanding food, genuine southern hospitality, and experiences that make people feel right at home.
Enjoy some of our handpicked wines and craft beers, try our delicious meals with locally sourced ingredients, and why not catch us for Happy Hour from 4.30pm-6pm? Rather than standing out in the rain, watch it from the comfort of our bar or restaurant! Make your booking, and we’ll see you soon.
