Wanaka Town

Wanaka town is a gem of the Southern Lakes, with a stunning lakefront setting and a laid-back vibe that feels more relaxed than its flashier neighbour Queenstown. This small but perfectly formed town is a base for outdoor adventures, from hiking and skiing to simply sipping a flat white while gazing at the mountains. The main street is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and excellent cafes, and the lakefront park is perfect for a lazy afternoon. Wanaka has a genuine sense of community, and its spectacular setting makes it hard to leave.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Wanaka & That Wanaka Tree: Stroll along the lakefront to see the famous lone willow tree, one of New Zealand's most photographed spots. It’s particularly photogenic at sunrise and sunset.
• Roys Peak Track: A challenging but rewarding day hike that offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Start early to avoid the crowds and the heat.
• Wanaka Lakefront & Pembroke Park: A beautiful green space with a playground, picnic spots, and a small beach. Perfect for a relaxing break or a family outing.
• Wanaka Beerworks: A microbrewery offering tastings of craft beers brewed with pure alpine water. The tasting room has a friendly, local atmosphere.
• Puzzling World: A quirky attraction with optical illusions, a maze, and mind-bending puzzles. Great fun for families or a rainy day activity.
• Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre: Learn about the park's glaciers, forests, and alpine wildlife. Staff provide excellent advice on day walks and tramping routes.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find two to three days ideal for Wanaka. This allows time for a major hike like Roys Peak, a relaxed day exploring the town and lakefront, and a day trip to nearby attractions. If you're on a tight itinerary, you can get a good taste in one day – enjoy a morning walk, lunch at a lakefront cafe, and a visit to Puzzling World – but you'll want to stay longer. For those keen on multi-day tramping or skiing, a week is not too long.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown: Just an hour's drive away, Queenstown offers a more adrenaline-fueled experience with bungee jumping, jet boats, and a vibrant nightlife.
• Glenorchy: A scenic drive from Queenstown leads to this small settlement at the head of Lake Wakatipu, famous for its 'Paradise' landscapes and as a filming location for Lord of the Rings.
• Mount Aspiring National Park: For trampers and nature lovers, the park offers multi-day hikes like the Routeburn Track and the Rees-Dart Track, plus day walks to Rob Roy Glacier.
• Haast Pass & the West Coast: Drive over the Haast Pass to reach the wild West Coast, with its rainforests, glaciers, and the Blue Pools track.
• Ski Fields: In winter, combine Wanaka with a visit to Treble Cone or Cardrona Alpine Resort for world-class skiing and snowboarding.

Please check official sources for current details.