Wanaka

Wanaka sits on the southern shore of a stunning lake of the same name, framed by the Southern Alps. It's a relaxed, sophisticated alternative to Queenstown, with a vibrant café scene, excellent hiking, and a thriving arts community. The lakefront is the heart of the town, where you can watch the light change over the water and the mountains.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Wanaka – the town's shimmering centrepiece, perfect for a stroll, a swim, or a kayak paddle.
• That Wanaka Tree – the iconic lone willow in the lake, a photographer's dream, especially at sunrise.
• Roys Peak Track – a challenging but rewarding hike with panoramic views of the lake and mountains.
• Puzzling World – a quirky attraction with optical illusions and a giant maze, fun for all ages.
• Wanaka Lakefront – a lovely promenade with benches, sculptures, and views of the mountains.
• Mount Aspiring National Park – a wilderness area with glaciers, valleys, and the Rob Roy Glacier Track.

Suggested Time to Spend

Spend at least two full days in Wanaka. Use the first day to explore the town, walk the lakefront, and visit Puzzling World. Dedicate the second day to a hike – Roys Peak for serious hikers, or a shorter walk like Diamond Lake. If you have more time, add a day trip into Mount Aspiring National Park.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Franz Josef Glacier – a dramatic glacier with heli-hikes and ice walks, about a 3.5-hour drive via the Haast Pass.
• Fox Glacier – another accessible glacier with guided tours, slightly smaller but equally impressive.
• Punakaiki – the Pancake Rocks and blowholes, a unique coastal formation, about 4 hours north.
• Hokitika – a historic gold-mining town with a wild beach, pounamu (greenstone) galleries, and the Hokitika Gorge.

Please check official sources for current details.