Queens Reach on the Waiau River
Located between Te Anau and Manapouri in Southland, Queens Reach is a road access point to the Waiau River and the Lake2Lake Cycle Trail, which follows the river between the two lake towns. In addition to allowing boat entry to the river, there is a nearby riverside picnic area if you wander along the track for a few hundred metres. The trail itself is suitable for both walkers and cyclists, offering easy grades and views across the river corridor.
Riverside Setting and Trail Access
Queens Reach is reached via a short turnoff from the Southern Scenic Route, around 5 km south of Te Anau. A gravel entrance road leads to a public boat ramp, and a short walk takes you to a grassy area by the Waiau River. This open space is surrounded by regenerating bush and has several picnic tables. The area provides direct access to the Lake2Lake Cycle Trail.
Trail Route and Connections
The Lake2Lake Cycle Trail runs between the Lake Te Anau control gates to Manapouri, passing through a mix of forest, riverside flats, and farmland,with some road biking. Heading south from Queens Reach takes you to Rainbow Reach, where you can walk across a swingbridge over the Waiau River to explore a section of the Kepler Track. Continuing south along the river then takes you to Boulder Reach, with clifftop river views and a Lord of the Rings site.
The track is dual-use and suitable for all ages, with a mostly compacted gravel surface and minimal elevation changes.
How to Get There
Queens Reach is accessed via a signposted gravel road off the Southern Scenic Route, around 5 km south of Te Anau. The entrance leads directly to a boat ramp and open space by the Waiau River, with parking and picnic areas.
Nearby places to explore include the Ivon Wilson Reserve and the Te Anau Lakefront in Te Anau, and Frasers Beach Walk on Lake Manapouri.
