Wanaka

Wanaka is the sort of place that makes you want to cancel the rest of your itinerary. Cradled by the Southern Alps and lapped by the impossibly clear waters of Lake Wanaka, this lakeside town blends outdoor adventure with a relaxed, almost dreamlike atmosphere. The iconic #ThatWanakaTree might be the most photographed lonely tree in the world, but Wanaka’s real magic lies in its easy access to wilderness, a buzzing food scene, and a pace that encourages you to linger.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Wanaka & the Wanaka Tree: Stroll the lakefront at dawn or dusk for that postcard shot of the lone willow in the water, with snow-capped peaks reflecting in the still lake.
• Roys Peak Track: A punishing but rewarding 16 km return hike that gains 1300 m — the summit panorama is one of New Zealand’s most photographed views, a must for fit hikers.
• Puzzling World: A quirky, family-friendly attraction with mind-bending optical illusions, a giant maze, and surreal rooms — great for a rainy afternoon.
• Mount Aspiring National Park: A World Heritage area with glaciers, alpine lakes, and world-class tramping. The Rob Roy Glacier Track is a fantastic day hike with a waterfall finale.
• Wanaka Lavender Farm: A fragrant stop just out of town, with pick-your-own lavender, alpacas, and a lovely café — perfect for a gentle afternoon.

Suggested Time to Spend

Give Wanaka at least two full days — one for the lake and low-key exploring, one for a big hike like Roys Peak or a trip into Mount Aspiring National Park. If you have three days, add a scenic flight over the glaciers or a day on the lake kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Many visitors use Wanaka as a base for 3–5 nights, combining it with Queenstown for a balanced South Island itinerary.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown: Just an hour’s drive south, Queenstown offers adrenaline activities, nightlife, and a different energy — easy to combine for a week-long trip.
• Glenorchy: A scenic 45-minute drive from Queenstown (and 1.5 hours from Wanaka), this tiny settlement is the gateway to Paradise and Middle-earth filming locations.
• Haast Pass & the West Coast: Drive the spectacular Haast Pass (State Highway 6) to the wild West Coast, with waterfalls, rainforest, and the possibility of spotting kiwi at the Haast Visitor Centre.
• Cardrona Valley: A short drive over the Crown Range, Cardrona has a historic pub, a ski field in winter, and the famous Bra Fence — a quirky roadside attraction.

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