Manapouri
Manapōuri is a small village that is bordered by the picturesque Lake Manapōuri and the Lower Waiau River. It is a popular town for lake activities in the summer months and is the departure point for tours travelling through to Doubtful Sound. It is located just 20 kilometres from Te Anau, and interestingly, it is also New Zealand’s westernmost town.
Why Visit?
- Lake Manapouri: The town is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Manapouri, the second-deepest lake in New Zealand. The lake’s stunning beauty, surrounded by rugged mountains, native forests and dotted with over 30 islands, is a popular Summer destination for boating, swimming, trout fishing and kayaking. Frasers Beach is a large sandy beach which is within walking distance of the town.
- Wilderness Experiences: Manapōuri serves as a gateway for visitors to explore the remote and untouched wilderness of Fiordland National Park. Many of the Doubtful Sound Tour departures leave from Manapōuri’s Pearl Harbour by boat, as there are no direct roads to Doubtful Sound. You can also access various hiking trails, like the Circle Track, Back Valley Hut or Hope Arm Hut. See the Adventure Manapōuri website for transport options across the Waiau river.
- Manapōuri Village: The small size and relatively remote location of Manapōuri have helped maintain a sense of tranquillity and natural beauty. Manapōuri offers a quiet and laid-back atmosphere, appealing to those seeking a genuine escape into nature. However, there is The Church Bar & Eatery for meals, the Cathedral Cafe for snacks & essential items, and a self-serve fuel station.
- Hydroelectric Power: Manapōuri is home to the Meridian Manapōuri Power Station, a significant hydroelectric power project. The power station is based at West Arm and was built to power the Aluminium Smelter at Tiwai near Bluff, 160km away. It was a huge engineering feat that involved the tributaries and waters of Lake Manapōuri, Lake Te Anau and the Upper & Lower Waiau Rivers.
Adventure Manapouri –
Your Gateway to Fiordland’s Hidden Trails
Some of Fiordland’s best-kept secrets start at Lake Manapouri. With Adventure Manapouri, you can access some of the region’s most remote and beautiful hiking trails. Our river taxi service provides quick and easy transport to the Hope Arm, Monument, and Circle Track Extensions, giving you the freedom to explore Fiordland’s hidden gems.
Why Choose Adventure Manapouri?
✔ Quick, scenic transport across Lake Manapouri
✔ Access to remote hiking trails with fewer crowds
✔ Local knowledge to help plan your perfect adventure
✔ Flexible departure times to fit your schedule
Hop aboard and start your Fiordland adventure with us.
Your Fiordland
Adventure Starts Here
Wake up to breathtaking views, relax in comfort, and explore the best of Fiordland from Te Anau’s premier lakeside accommodation. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, your perfect getaway starts now.
Where You Can Find Us
Physical Address
77 Manapouri Te Anau Highway,
Te Anau 9672
Phone Numbers
(+64) 3 249 7457
0800 483 262 (free within NZ)
Email Address
res@teanau.info
Work Hours
Winter: 9am - 6pm
Summer: 7.30am - 9pm