Photo: Steve Collis from Melbourne, Australia / CC BY 2.0
Tucked into the eastern shore of Lake Wānaka, Glendhu Bay Motor Camp is a classic Kiwi holiday spot where the mountains meet the water. This family-run camp offers a relaxed, old-school camping experience with stunning views of the lake and the surrounding peaks. It's the perfect base for exploring the Upper Clutha region, with easy access to hiking trails, water activities, and the charming town of Wānaka just a short drive away.
Highlights & What to See
- Lake Wānaka Waterfront – Stroll along the pebbly beach, swim in the clear waters, or launch a kayak or paddleboard right from the camp.
- Glendhu Bay Track – A gentle lakeside walk offering panoramic views of the lake and the Southern Alps, ideal for a morning or sunset stroll.
- Roys Peak Track – One of New Zealand's most iconic day hikes, starting just a few kilometres away, rewarding with a classic Instagram-worthy view over the lake.
- Wānaka town centre – A 10-minute drive gets you to Wānaka's cafes, restaurants, and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
- Puzzling World – A quirky attraction with illusion rooms and a maze, fun for all ages, located on the way to Wānaka.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors stay 2–3 nights to fully soak up the lake atmosphere and tackle nearby hikes. If you're short on time, even one night here provides a memorable lakeside experience, but you'll want at least a full day to explore the area. The camp is a great stop on a South Island road trip, especially if you're heading to or from the West Coast via the Haast Pass.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Wānaka – The vibrant lakeside town offers dining, shopping, and adventure activities.
- Haast Pass – A scenic drive through rainforest and waterfalls, connecting to the West Coast's glaciers.
- Makarora – A small settlement at the start of the Haast Pass, with jet boat rides and hiking.
- Lake Hāwea – A quieter lake just east of Wānaka, great for fishing and boating.
- Cardrona Valley – Known for the historic Cardrona Hotel and ski fields in winter.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- Wānaka — Hagai Agmon-Snir حچاي اچمون-سنير חגי אגמון-שניר / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Haast Pass — Pavel Špindler / CC BY 3.0
- Makarora — Jocey K / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Lake Hāwea — Krzysztof Golik / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Cardrona Valley — Mark Croston / CC BY 2.0