Wanaka Holiday Park

Wanaka Holiday Park is a quintessential Kiwi camping ground that perfectly captures the relaxed, outdoorsy spirit of the South Island. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wanaka with mountain views, this park offers a range of accommodation from powered sites for campervans and tents to simple cabins and self-contained units. It's a favourite among self-drive travellers for its unbeatable location just a short stroll from the town centre and the lakefront, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural wonders.

Highlights & What to See

• Lakeside Location: Wake up to stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding peaks. The park has direct access to the lake for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• That Wanaka Tree: A short walk along the lakefront takes you to the famous lonely willow tree, one of New Zealand's most photographed spots. Visit at sunrise or sunset for magical light.
• Roys Peak Track: This challenging day hike offers panoramic vistas of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. The trail starts just a short drive from the park.
• Wanaka Town Centre: Explore the town's vibrant café scene, boutique shops, and galleries. Don't miss the quirky Puzzling World and the National Transport & Toy Museum.
• Wine Tours: The nearby Gibbston Valley and Central Otago wine regions are renowned for their pinot noir. Many tour operators offer pickups from the park.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least two to three nights to fully enjoy Wanaka and its surroundings. This gives you time for a day hike like Roys Peak, a leisurely day around the lake, and a day trip to nearby attractions like the Rob Roy Glacier or the Cardrona Ski Area (in winter). If you're self-driving, Wanaka makes a perfect two-night stop between Queenstown and the West Coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown: Just an hour's drive away, Queenstown offers adventure activities like bungee jumping, jet boating, and skydiving, as well as a lively dining scene.
• Glenorchy: A scenic drive to the head of Lake Wakatipu, Glenorchy is the gateway to the Routeburn Track and features dramatic mountain scenery.
• Haast Pass & West Coast: Drive over the Haast Pass to reach the wild West Coast, with its rainforests, glaciers, and rugged coastline. This is a classic road trip route.
• Cardrona & Treble Cone: In winter, these ski fields are top-notch for skiing and snowboarding. In summer, the Cardrona Hotel is a historic pub worth a stop.

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