Te Anau Bird Sanctuary is a peaceful, free-entry wildlife reserve located on the shores of Lake Te Anau, just a short 20-minute walk from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre. The sanctuary is home to several rare and endangered native bird species, including the iconic takahē, which are part of the Takahē Recovery Programme. Other species you might encounter include the Antipodes Island parakeet, pateke (brown teal), and kōwhiowhio (blue duck).
The sanctuary offers a relaxed, self-guided experience suitable for all ages. It’s a great spot for wildlife photography, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the tranquil lakeside environment. Families can engage with interactive activities like a scavenger hunt, and there are picnic tables and a spring water tap available for visitors. Please note that the sanctuary is currently undergoing operational changes, with some species being relocated as part of a transition to a sustainable management model.