Wanaka

Wanaka is the kind of place that makes you want to linger. Nestled on the shores of a pristine lake with the Southern Alps as a backdrop, this lakeside town offers a more relaxed alternative to its bustling neighbour Queenstown. Here, the pace of life is dictated by the seasons: summers are for swimming and hiking, autumn brings golden foliage, winter turns the mountains into a skier’s paradise, and spring bursts with wildflowers. The town itself is a charming mix of boutique shops, lively cafés and craft breweries, all with a friendly, unpretentious vibe.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Wanaka & That Wanaka Tree: Stroll along the lakefront to see the famous lone willow growing out of the water – a photographer’s dream. The lake is perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or simply picnicking on the shore.
• Roys Peak Track: A challenging but rewarding hike that offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Start early to avoid crowds and catch the sunrise.
• Mount Aspiring National Park: A World Heritage area with spectacular glaciers, alpine meadows and hiking trails. The Rob Roy Glacier Track is a popular day walk.
• Puzzling World: A quirky attraction with mind-bending illusion rooms, a maze and puzzles – great fun for families.
• Wanaka Wine Trail: Explore boutique vineyards in the nearby Gibbston Valley and Central Otago region, known for world-class Pinot Noir.
• Warbirds & Wheels: A museum showcasing vintage aircraft and classic cars, with a strong focus on local aviation history.

Suggested Time to Spend

Wanaka deserves at least two full days to appreciate its natural beauty and attractions. With three days, you can add a day trip to Mount Aspiring National Park or a scenic flight over the glaciers. If you’re short on time, a day will let you enjoy the lakefront, visit Puzzling World and tackle a short hike like the Diamond Lake Track.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown – Just an hour’s drive away, offering adrenaline activities, nightlife and more lake scenery.
• Glenorchy – A charming village at the head of Lake Wakatipu, gateway to the Routeburn Track and filming location for Lord of the Rings.
• Haast Pass – A scenic drive through rainforest and waterfalls, connecting Wanaka to the West Coast.
• Cardrona – Historic gold-mining town with a ski field and the famous Cardrona Hotel.
• Arrowtown – A beautifully preserved gold-rush settlement with autumn colours and a Chinese settlement.

Please check official sources for current details.