Aerial view of Manapouri
Videocopter

Manapōuri

Welcome to Manapōuri, a hidden gem nestled on the shores of Lake Manapōuri on the edge of the breathtaking Fiordland National Park. This idyllic town is steeped in Māori legend, with the name Manapōuri meaning "lake of the sorrowing heart", originating from a tale of two sisters whose tears formed the lake. But don't let the sorrowful history fool you; Manapōuri is a place of stunning natural beauty that will leave you in awe.

With its picturesque lake, pristine beaches, and dramatic mountain ranges, Manapōuri is a true feast for the eyes. It's no wonder that this place served as a filming location for the Lord of the Rings trilogy! To soak up all the splendour, head to The Church, the local pub, and unwind with a drink while taking in the stunning views.

Manapōuri is also the perfect starting point for your adventure to Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound. With an array of beautiful walking tracks in the surrounding area, you'll be spoilt for choice. Take a leisurely cruise on Lake Manapōuri, or try your hand at fishing, kayaking, boating or other water activities. And if you're feeling adventurous, hop on the Lake2Lake Trail, a 28km one-way cycling trail that connects Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapōuri, offering a natural and highly scenic recreational experience that caters to a wide range of users.

From Manapōuri, it's only a 20-minute drive to Te Anau, where you can begin your journey on three of New Zealand’s Great Walks and trips to Milford Sound

Discover

Manapouri

Prospect Lodge
Prospect Lodge, Fiordland

Accommodation

Fiordland has an abundance of camp grounds, backpackers, scenic camping areas, and lodges, as well as a range of hotels, motels, holiday homes, and B&B’s. Whether you’re just staying one night… Read More

Food & Drink

There is an excellent selection of restaurants, bars, cafés, bakeries, and dairies to choose from in Te Anau, and a few cafés can also be found in Manapōuri and Milford… Read More

Dusky Sound helicopter
Richard Young

Things To Do

Fiordland is a natural playground. From providing some of the best walking tracks in the country - and even the world, to offering a plethora of scenic cruises and adventure activities, Fiordland is a dream… Read More

Milford Sound

Often described as the “eighth wonder of the world”, the jewel in Fiordland’s crown, and one of the New Zealand’s top travel destinations, Milford Sound  (Piopiotahi)  was… Read More

Marakura Wharf Te Anau
Richard Young

Te Anau

The serene, picturesque Lake Te Anau is the largest lake in the South Island and second largest in New Zealand, with the spectacular Mt Luxmore and Murchison mountains providing an awe-inspiring backdrop… Read More

Doubtful Sound
Graham Dainty

Doubtful Sound

Few lakes are more beautiful and mysterious than New Zealand’s second deepest lake, Lake Manapōuri - often referred to as New Zealand's loveliest lake. The peaceful township of Manapōuri… Read More

Events

Discover Fiordland's incredible events lineup that "You Won't Want To Miss!"  Immerse yourself in each event's captivating story, told through the eyes of a skilled storyteller… Read More