That Wanaka Tree

That Wanaka Tree is arguably New Zealand's most photographed tree — a solitary willow that grows from the shallow waters of Lake Wanaka, its gnarled branches reaching out over the crystal-clear water. Backed by the dramatic peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park, this iconic scene draws photographers and nature lovers from around the globe, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light paints the mountains and sky in soft pastels. It's a serene, almost meditative spot that perfectly encapsulates the raw beauty of the South Island.

Highlights & What to See

• That Wanaka Tree itself: The main attraction — a lone willow tree standing in the lake, best viewed from the shoreline or by wading a few steps into the water for a unique angle.
• Lake Wanaka shoreline: Stroll along the pebbled beach for ever-changing views of the tree against the mountains. In calm conditions, the reflections are stunning.
• Sunrise and sunset photography: The golden hours cast magical light on the tree and peaks, with fewer crowds and a tranquil atmosphere.
• Nearby Wanaka town: Just a short walk away, explore the vibrant lakeside village with its excellent cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops.
• Mount Aspiring National Park: The tree is a gateway to this World Heritage area, offering hiking trails like the Rob Roy Track and scenic flights over glaciers.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour at the tree, enjoying the view and taking photos. To fully experience the changing light, consider visiting twice — once at sunrise and again at sunset. Combine it with a walk around Wanaka's lakefront or a coffee in town, and you can easily fill a half-day. If you're a keen photographer, allow extra time to experiment with compositions.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka town centre: Just a 5-minute walk, with great cafes (try Fedeli or Scroggin), galleries, and the quirky Puzzling World.
• Roys Peak Track: A challenging hike with panoramic views over Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps — start early to avoid crowds.
• Glendhu Bay: A picturesque bay 10 minutes' drive from the tree, offering a quieter lakeside experience and access to the Glendhu Mountain Bike Park.
• Cardrona Valley: 20 minutes away, home to the historic Cardrona Hotel, the Cardrona Alpine Resort (skiing in winter), and the famous Bra Fence.
• Mount Aspiring National Park: Drive 30 minutes to the Raspberry Creek car park for the Rob Roy Glacier walk, a spectacular day hike.

Please check official sources for current details.