Unforgettable Outdoor Learning Experiences at Te Kuwaha Mātauraka - John McGlashan College Second Campus.

Discover the Ultimate Destination for Educational Groups

Te Kuwaha Mātauraka offers an immersive and inspiring setting for school camps, field trips, and outdoor education programs. Nestled on the edge of Lake Te Anau, our facilities provide easy access to native bush, pristine waterways, and world-class hiking trails. Whether you’re planning a science expedition, geography field trip, or team-building retreat, our lodge is designed to support hands-on learning in a breathtaking natural environment.

Group of people kayaking in a river near a sign that reads 'Bridge Creek Swamp Creek Culyert' with a natural landscape of bushes and trees

Onsite Activities for Educational Groups

From eco-discovery to adventure-based learning, Te Kuwaha Mātauraka offers a diverse range of activities to engage students of all ages.

  • Nature Walks & Wildlife Spotting – Explore native bush and witness rare species like the Takahe.

  • Orienteering & Navigation – Develop problem-solving skills with hands-on map and compass activities.

  • Water Activities – Enjoy lake access for kayaking and freshwater studies.

  • Astronomy & Night Walks – Experience Fiordland’s unpolluted night skies for star-gazing and astronomy lessons.

  • Sustainability & Conservation Talks – Learn about New Zealand’s biodiversity and local conservation efforts.

Learn more about onsite activities →

A young boy in a plaid shirt and shorts playing disc golf in a wooded outdoor area, about to throw a disc towards a metal basket with hanging chains.

Comfortable Group Accommodation

Our accommodation is designed to cater to large educational groups, with a range of lodging options to suit different budgets and preferences.

  • Takahea Lodge – 23 ensuite rooms, sleeps up to 73, large dining and lounge areas.
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  • Kohaka Lodge – 11 ensuite rooms, sleeps up to 28, lake views and cozy log burner.
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  • Ensuite Units – Ideal for teachers and tour leaders, featuring private facilities.
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Typical Availability Months

Te Kuwaha Mātauraka welcomes educational groups year-round, with peak availability during:

  • February – April, October - December (ideal for school camps & outdoor education)

  • May - September (perfect for field trips & study retreats)

Indoor space with wooden beams and a large outdoor landscape photograph on the wall with mountains and water, featuring the words "Te Kuwae Matauranga" underneath. There are chairs and bookshelves in the background, and a small red fire equipment box near the wall.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We do not provide catering; however, we can put you in touch with some fantastic local caterers. Most groups use Megan from the Wapiti Bakery in town.

  • We cater to small and large groups, but availability depends on the time of year. Our minimum numbers in the Takahea Lodge are 25 and the Kohaka Lodge is 10.

  • We supply bottom sheets, pillows and pillowcases. Guests will need to bring bedding such as sleeping bags and towels.

  • The cost varies depending on the facility that you are wanting to book as well as the type of group you are bringing. Get in contact with us for more information on costs.

Nighttime camping scene with multiple tents illuminated from within, set on a grassy area. Fireworks are visible in the dark sky above the tents.

Getting There

Location: Te Anau Downs, 26km from Te Anau, with easy access to the Milford Track.
Nestled along Lake Te Anau, Fiordland National Park Lodge is only 200 metres from the Milford Track water taxi jetty.

By Car: 2-hour drive from Queenstown, 1.5 hour drive from Milford Sound and a 20 minute drive from Te Anau.

By Bus: Coach transfers available from Te Anau & Queenstown.

 

Booking Enquiry

If you would like to book your group into our facility or would like more information, please get in contact with our Operations Manager.