A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shiretoko National Park vs. Te Anau for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking.

Te Anau

Te Anau is a stunning, pristine, and breathtaking town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food and hiking.

Shiretoko National Park and Te Anau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Te Anau. Although Shiretoko National Park and Te Anau are both popular with visitors, Te Anau has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Te Anau is more touristy than Shiretoko National Park and is popular for being the gateway to Fiordland National Park. It is also home to Te Anau Glowworm Caves. Shiretoko National Park is popular for its pristine ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

How is Shiretoko National Park different from Te Anau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Te Anau and Shiretoko National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau?

Shiretoko National Park
Te Anau

Te Anau is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its museums and history.

Te Anau offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The town is about the surrounding outdoor activities but you will find the Te Anau Vintage Machinery Museum and the Te Anau Trout Observatory in town.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Shiretoko National Park. This is a beautiful and pristine park, but there are limited amenities and museums in the area. You can hit up the Shiretoko Rausu Visitor Center for information on the region.


Is the Food Better in Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shiretoko National Park
Te Anau

Te Anau is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its restaurants.

Dining out in Te Anau is an experience not to be missed. The town makes a great spot to refuel after all of your hiking and outdoor adventures. There are plenty of cafes and food trucks around town where you can enjoy local dishes and a friendly atmosphere.

While Shiretoko National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are a couple of restaurants on the edge of the park, but if you're planning to do any hiking, it's best to bring your own food.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau Better for Nightlife?

Shiretoko National Park
Te Anau

Te Anau is a moderate town for its evening party scene. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Most people don't head to Te Anau specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. This is a small town that's focused on outdoor activities, but it does receive a number of tourists, so you'll find a few bars around town where you can hang out.

Shiretoko National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau Better for Hiking?

Shiretoko National Park
Te Anau

Shiretoko National Park and Te Anau are both places where visitors can find first-rate hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Shiretoko National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The park is pristine with striking and varied landscapes as well as diverse wildlife. Hiking is the best way to experience the area, and the scenic views, and world class hiking trails are among the best.

Around Te Anau visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The town serves as basecamp for Fiordland National Park so there are many amazing hikes and walks in the area. Many of the hikes begin at the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre and range in length and the required skill level.


Is the Shopping Better in Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau?

Shiretoko National Park
Te Anau

Te Anau is a moderate town for its shopping areas. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Te Anau has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops where you can pick up any outdoor supplies and food items that you may need.

Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau Better for Families?

Shiretoko National Park
Te Anau

Te Anau is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Te Anau is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. The town's proximity to the Milford Sound make it a nice base for families who enjoy spending time outdoors. Kayaking or exploring the Te Anau Glowworm Caves are favorite activities in the area. There's also the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary and many hikes nearby.

Shiretoko National Park is a family-friendly remote,natural,scenic,pristine. Kids who enjoy an outdoor adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are wildlife viewing opportunities as well as mult-day hiking trails. Some parts of the park are challenging to access, so younger kids may be limited in what they can do.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau Better for Couples?

Shiretoko National Park
Te Anau

Te Anau is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for romance.

Te Anau has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The stunning scenery in the area, combined with small town charm, make this is a top couple's destination and a wonderful honeymoon spot. Couples who appreciate nature and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this amazing area.

Shiretoko National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, wildlife, and pristine hiking trails will enjoy a visit to this remote and natural park. There are many great hikes as well as scenic spots that you can explore.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shiretoko National Park
Te Anau

Both Shiretoko National Park and Te Anau are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Shiretoko National Park is a very popular remote,natural,scenic,pristine for backpackers and budget travelers. Multi-day treks are a great way to explore the park and see the parts that are less popular with tourists.

Te Anau is very popular with the backpacker crowd. For such a small town, there are a decent number of hostels and budget accommodation options in the area. The town makes a good base for exploring the region's stunning scenery.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Shiretoko National Park
Te Anau

Neither Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Shiretoko National Park. While there are buses that travel from Utoro to the east coast, they are infrequent. Your best options for visiting the park are having a private vehicle or joining a tour. Many parts of the park are only accessible by hiking or by boat.

Public transit is quite limited in Te Anau. Public transit in the area is limited and most visitors have their own car or join one of the many tours in the area.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau a more walkable city?

Shiretoko National Park
Te Anau

Shiretoko National Park is a remote,natural,scenic,pristine with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Te Anau is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Shiretoko National Park is a somewhat walkable place. It's a vast park with many hiking and cycling trails.

Te Anau is generally not very walkable. Exploring the area requires a vehicle and, while there are many hikes in the area, it's not easy to walk to many places. There are tours available for those that don't have a vehicle.


For even more information, also check out Is Shiretoko National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Te Anau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Te Anau or Shiretoko National Park?

How long in Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shiretoko National Park and Te Anau. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shiretoko National Park than in Te Anau. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Shiretoko National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Te Anau.

Families should spend more time in Te Anau than Shiretoko National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Te Anau, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Te Anau than Shiretoko National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Te Anau that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Te Anau than Shiretoko National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Te Anau.


  • How many days in Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shiretoko National Park 3-4 
    Te Anau 1-3

One day in Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau?

In Shiretoko National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This remote,natural,scenic,pristine offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Te Anau is a small town with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau?

In Shiretoko National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Te Anau is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau?

Shiretoko National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Te Anau is a great place to explore. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


A week in Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Shiretoko National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Shiretoko National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Te Anau. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.


Which place is cheaper, Te Anau or Shiretoko National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Shiretoko National Park is $74, while the average daily cost in Te Anau is $98. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Shiretoko National Park and Te Anau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shiretoko National Park $33
    Te Anau $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shiretoko National Park $66
    Te Anau $88
Compare Hotels in Shiretoko National Park and Te Anau

Looking for a hotel in Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Shiretoko National Park


Hotels in Te Anau


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Shiretoko National Park Hotel Prices and Te Anau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $26
    Te Anau $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Te Anau

Also for Te Anau, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Kepler Water Taxi Transfer across Lake Te Anau: $15

Is it cheaper to fly into Shiretoko National Park or Te Anau?

Prices for flights to both Te Anau and Shiretoko National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Shiretoko National Park $25
    Te Anau $27

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $15
    Te Anau $47

Tours and Activities in Te Anau

For Te Anau, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Glowworm Caves Guided Tour: $71
  • Te Anau Glow Worm Caves Tour: $72
  • Evening Scenic Cruise: $86
  • Lake 3-Hour Boat Cruise with Guided Walk: $86
  • Afternoon Te Anau Cruise on Historic Motor Yacht: $87
  • Champagne Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Te Anau: $87
  • Morning Tea Cruise on Historic Motor Yacht from Te Anau: $88
  • Fiordland: Jet Boat & Nature Walk Experience from Te Anau: $106
  • Full-Day National Park Tour with Cruise and Lunch: $110
  • From Milford Sound Coach Tour and Cruise: $110
  • Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Tour from Te Anau : $113
  • Premium Milford Sound Full Day Tour & Cruise: $118

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shiretoko National Park $10
    Te Anau $14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shiretoko National Park and Te Anau, we can see that Te Anau is more expensive. And not only is Shiretoko National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Shiretoko National Park is in Asia and Te Anau is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Shiretoko National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shiretoko National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Te Anau would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Te Anau than you might in Shiretoko National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Shiretoko National Park Expensive? and Is Te Anau Expensive?.


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