Wanaka

Wanaka is the kind of place that makes you want to stay forever. Cradled by the Southern Alps and lapped by the impossibly blue waters of Lake Wānaka, this lakeside town is a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, relaxed café culture, and jaw-dropping scenery. Whether you're hiking a nearby peak, sipping a flat white on the lakefront, or simply watching the famous #ThatWanakaTree change with the light, Wanaka has a magnetic pull that keeps travellers coming back.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Wānaka – The shimmering lake is the town's centrepiece. Stroll the lakefront, hire a kayak, or take a scenic cruise to soak in the mountain reflections.
• #ThatWanakaTree – A lone willow growing from the lake's shallows has become an icon. Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most magical light (and fewer crowds).
• Roys Peak Track – A challenging but rewarding hike offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Allow 5–6 hours return.
• Puzzling World – A quirky attraction with optical illusions, a maze, and surreal rooms. Great fun for families and a good rainy-day option.
• Wanaka Lavender Farm – A fragrant escape with fields of lavender, friendly farm animals, and homemade lavender ice cream.
• Mount Aspiring National Park – The park's dramatic landscapes are a short drive away. Explore the Rob Roy Glacier Track or the Blue Pools walk for a taste of the wilderness.

Suggested Time to Spend

Wanaka deserves at least two to three days. Spend your first day exploring the town and lakefront, then dedicate a full day to a major hike or a trip into Mount Aspiring National Park. A third day allows for a more relaxed pace – perhaps a wine tour in the nearby Gibbston Valley or a scenic flight over the glaciers. If you're short on time, a whirlwind overnight stop still gives you a taste of the magic, but you'll want to return.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown – Just an hour's drive over the Crown Range, Queenstown offers a more buzzing nightlife, bungee jumping, and the Remarkables ski area.
• Glenorchy – A tiny, scenic lakeside settlement at the head of Lake Wakatipu, famous for its Lord of the Rings filming locations and walking trails.
• Cardrona – A historic gold-mining village with a charming pub, and in winter, a popular ski field.
• Haast Pass – The scenic drive over the pass takes you through rainforest, past waterfalls, and into the wild West Coast – perfect for a road trip.
• Wanaka to Queenstown Trail – A cycle trail that connects the two towns, winding through vineyards, along rivers, and over the Crown Range.

Please check official sources for current details.