Day 10: Te Anau
We stopped in a gas station on our way into Te Anau, only to find out they have a tour booking counter in their convenience store – how convenient! Unfortunately, kayak tours were no longer running in Doubtful Sound for the season, so we booked an all-day cruise for the next day instead. The agent assured us, “It is completely different from Milford.” How right he was! But more on that later.
That left the afternoon open to explore the Te Anau area, so we stopped into the DOC (Department of Conservation – their National Parks Department) info center to ask about good day hikes. We ended up doing a small section of the Kepler Track – another of New Zealand’s Great Walks. While it was a pleasant afternoon, we were confident that picking the Routeburn for our only multi-day hike was the best choice.
A short section of the Kepler Track. While there are Kiwis in the park, they are nocturnal, so no sightings for us.
Igor enjoying the flora of the Kepler Track – the Silver Fern & Toadstool Mushrooms
Lindsay enjoying the views of Lake Te Anau
That night, we stayed at our best RV campground to date – the Possum Lodge! Small – but super cute! – right on the bank of Lake Manapouri; a 2min drive from our tour meeting point the next day. But best of all? Unlimited, FAST internet connection!
Best RV campground yet! Complete with a walking trail with a sunset view of Lake Manapouri