Wānaka is one of those places that feels like a quiet discovery. Set beside a calm alpine lake with the Southern Alps in the distance, it’s perfect for both relaxed days and outdoor adventures.
In summer, the lake is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and walks along the shore. In winter, Wānaka becomes a base for skiing and snowboarding in nearby resorts. Whether you’re walking a track, cycling a trail, or taking a scenic drive, you’ll find space to explore at your own pace.
A Personal Note from Us
We always make time for Wānaka. One of our favourite things is grabbing fish and chips and sitting by the water. The view is stunning, but it’s the calm atmosphere that makes it special. Wānaka has a small-town feel, big landscapes, and something to enjoy in every season.
What Makes Wānaka So Special?
It’s not just the scenery that makes Wānaka memorable. The town is full of local character, peaceful corners, and outdoor spots that reward a little extra exploring.
Mount Iron offers an easy climb with full views over the lake and town. Diamond Lake is a short walk with great lookouts, while the Rob Roy Glacier Track takes you through forest and past waterfalls to a glacier suspended in an alpine valley.
Puzzling World is a fun stop, full of illusion rooms and maze challenges — great for rainy days or something a bit different.
And then there’s the famous Wānaka Tree. Sitting in the lake with the mountains behind it, this lone willow has become one of the most photographed trees in the country. Visit early morning or evening for a quieter view.
Wānaka doesn’t rush you. It invites you to slow down and enjoy what’s in front of you.
Wānaka — Māori Name and Cultural Significance
Wānaka comes from the South Island dialect of te reo Māori and is thought to be a version of Ōanaka, meaning a place of learning or knowledge.
The area around the lake was an important seasonal food source and travel route for Ngāi Tahu. As you explore, you’ll notice traditional names and stories that show the strong connection between land, water, and people.
Wānaka holds more than just scenic value. It carries a deep sense of meaning that adds richness to every visit.
Table of Contents
- A Personal Note from Us
- What Makes Wānaka So Special?
- Wānaka — Māori Name and Cultural Significance
- Best Things to Do in Wānaka
- Where to Stay in Wānaka – From Boutique to Budget Friendly
- Best Dining Experiences in Wānaka
- Best Walking and Hiking Trails in the Wānaka Region
- Best Spots for Sunrise and Sunset in Wānaka
- Getting to and Around Wānaka
- 5 Fascinating Facts About Wānaka
🌟 Best Things to Do in Wānaka
With its stunning lake views, alpine setting, and relaxed vibe, Wānaka offers a mix of nature, adventure, and local charm. Here are some of the top experiences to enjoy during your stay.
- That Wānaka Tree
- A peaceful spot that’s become a photography icon. The lone willow standing in Lake Wānaka draws visitors from around the world, especially at sunrise and sunset when the reflections and light are at their best.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Lake Wānaka
- Hire a kayak or paddleboard and cruise the lake at your own pace. Explore quiet bays, drift past small islands, or just relax and enjoy the views.
- Skydiving Over Wānaka
- Take in the views from a different perspective with a tandem skydive over Lake Wānaka. It’s one of the most scenic drop zones in the country, with the Southern Alps and national park spread out beneath you.
- Canyoning Adventures
- Wānaka’s rivers and canyons offer the perfect terrain for this adrenaline-filled activity. Slide down natural rock chutes, abseil beside waterfalls, and swim through clear pools on guided canyoning trips.
- Mountain Biking at Bike Glendhu
- This purpose-built bike park has tracks for all levels, from cruisy loops to expert descents. You’ll get stunning views of the lake and mountains with every turn.
- Puzzling World
- A quirky favourite with illusion rooms, leaning walls, and an outdoor maze. It’s fun for all ages and a good rainy-day option.
- Rippon Vineyard
- Enjoy a wine tasting with a view at one of Aotearoa – New Zealand’s most scenic vineyards. Rippon’s biodynamic practices and dramatic lake-and-mountain backdrop make it a standout spot.
- The Blue Pools
- Located near Makarora, about an hour from Wānaka, the Blue Pools are famous for their vibrant turquoise water. A short walk through native forest leads to a swing bridge and peaceful river views. Swimming is optional but chilly.
We usually start with Viator and Get Your Guide when planning tours or activities — both are easy to use and have loads of trusted options. But we always check Tripadvisor too, as it’s packed with local gems and more traveller reviews.
🛏️ Where to Stay in Wānaka – From Boutique to Budget Friendly
These accommodation picks are a mix of places we’ve experienced ourselves and a few that come highly rated by other travellers. When it comes to finding the right place to stay, we usually start with Trip.com — it’s easy to use and covers everything from budget motels to boutique stays and self-contained options. We also like to check Tripadvisor for reviews and side-by-side comparisons, and Booking.com is a handy tool for comparing prices across multiple platforms. Between them, you’ll get a clear picture of what’s available and what might suit your travel style best.
- The Lookout Lodge
- A peaceful rural stay with sweeping views across farmland and mountains. This boutique lodge offers comfort, privacy, and stargazing opportunities, all just a short drive from town.
- Ridgeview Retreat
- Rustic charm meets modern comfort at this scenic hideaway. Perfect for couples or solo travellers looking to unwind, Ridgeview Retreat offers cosy interiors and beautiful surroundings close to Wānaka’s outdoor adventures.
- Mt Aspiring Holiday Park
- Well located for skiers and hikers alike, this holiday park is just a short drive from Cardrona, Snow Farm, and Treble Cone. It’s also close to popular trails, making it a practical choice for those who love the outdoors.
- Freedom Camping – Lake Hāwea Reserve
- About 15 minutes from Wānaka, this lakeside reserve is a popular freedom camping spot with stunning views. It’s suitable for certified self-contained vehicles and offers a peaceful overnight stay with lake access.
- Freedom Camping – Red Bridge Reserve
- Located near Luggate, this site is a quiet spot beside the Clutha River. Self-contained campers can enjoy a relaxed setting with river walks and mountain views not far from Wānaka.
- Campground – Glendhu Bay Motor Camp
- A classic Kiwi camping experience with lake access and mountain views. This family-friendly campground is a popular base in summer with a mix of powered and unpowered sites right on the lakefront.
🍽️ Best Dining Experiences in Wānaka
Sample the region’s fresh flavours in cosy, welcoming settings. We didn’t get to try everything, but these spots stood out. Whether you’re after a strong coffee, seasonal dishes, or something indulgent, Wānaka has something for every appetite.
- Bistro Gentil
- A French-inspired bistro with stunning views over the mountains and golf course. Expect refined dishes with local ingredients and a wine dispenser system that lets you sample a range of excellent local wines.
- Kika
- A modern favourite known for creative shared plates and a menu that changes with the seasons. The atmosphere is vibrant and the dishes are full of flavour — a top choice for an evening meal.
- The Cow Pizza & Spaghetti House
- A rustic local institution with hearty pizza and pasta served in a stone-walled, fire-lit setting. Great for a relaxed dinner with generous servings and friendly vibes.
- Big Fig
- Perfect for those on the go or after something wholesome. Big Fig serves slow-cooked comfort food fast, with a daily-changing menu focused on fresh salads, roasted meats, and Middle Eastern-style flavours.
- Scroggin Coffee and Eatery
- A go-to for excellent coffee and brunch. With warm service, fresh pastries, and hearty plates made from local produce, it’s a great place to start your day or refuel between adventures.
When it comes to finding great places to eat, we usually check out Tripadvisor first — it’s full of honest reviews, local favourites, and hidden gems. Whether you’re after something casual or a special meal out, it’s a great place to compare what’s nearby and see what other travellers recommend.
🥾 Best Walking and Hiking Trails in the Wānaka Region
Discover some of the region’s most rewarding trails, from short scenic walks to full-day alpine treks.
- Roys Peak Track
- Distance 16 km.
- Time 5–7 hours
- A steep and popular hike with panoramic views over Lake Wānaka and Mount Aspiring/Tititea. It’s challenging but well worth the effort for those iconic summit shots.
- Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain Walks
- Distance 3–7 km.
- Time 1–3 hours
- A mix of short loops and steeper climbs, these tracks offer stunning views with less foot traffic than Roys Peak. Great for birdwatching and varied landscapes.
- Rob Roy Glacier Track
- Distance 10 km.
- Time 3–4 hours
- Set in Mount Aspiring National Park, this moderate track passes through beech forest, over swing bridges, and leads to glacier views with waterfalls and rugged peaks.
- Blue Pools Track
- Distance 1.5 km.
- Time 30–45 minutes
- A gentle walk through forest to suspension bridges and crystal-clear pools fed by glacial meltwater. A peaceful spot for families or travellers short on time.
Before you hit the trail, it’s always a good idea to check the DOC (Department of Conservation) website. You’ll find important updates on track conditions, weather alerts and any closures or hazards. It’s also where you can book huts or campsites on popular multi-day hikes. Checking in first helps you stay safe, pack what you need and enjoy your adventure with confidence especially in Aotearoa’s wild and changeable backcountry.
🌅 Best Spots for Sunrise and Sunset in Wānaka
Here are a few of the most scenic places to enjoy the changing light over Wānaka’s landscapes.
Sunset
- Roys Peak
- If you’re up for a late hike, Roys Peak at sunset delivers golden light spilling across the lake and mountains. A dramatic setting best enjoyed on a clear day.
- Wānaka Lakefront
- Easily accessible and peaceful, the lakefront is ideal for watching the sun dip behind the ranges with the water reflecting every hue.
Sunrise
- Mount Iron
- A short pre-dawn climb rewards you with sweeping views as the sun lights up the lake, town, and surrounding peaks in warm morning tones.
- Diamond Lake
- A calm and quiet place to watch the day begin. The reflections on the water and soft colours make for a beautiful and easy morning walk.
🚗 Getting to and Around Wānaka
Wānaka is well connected by road and makes for a scenic drive from many parts of the South Island. If you’re travelling by campervan or car, the journey in is part of the adventure.
- From Queenstown
- Wānaka is just over an hour’s drive from Queenstown via the Crown Range Road — Aotearoa’s highest main road. Alternatively, take the longer but equally beautiful route through Cromwell and along the shores of Lake Dunstan.
- From the West Coast
- Travel from the West Coast via Haast Pass for a dramatic drive through native forest, waterfalls, and mountain landscapes. Allow extra time for photo stops.
- Getting Around
- A car or campervan gives you the most freedom to explore the area, especially if you’re heading to trailheads, vineyards, or outlying lakes. In town, walking or cycling is easy, and many cafes, shops, and the lakefront are within short distance of each other.
- Wānaka has limited public transport, so self-drive is the best option for full flexibility.
🐦 5 Fascinating Facts About Wānaka
- Lake Wānaka is the fourth-largest lake in Aotearoa – New Zealand
- It covers 192 square kilometres and reaches depths of over 300 metres in places.
- The town was once underwater
- During the last Ice Age, much of Wānaka sat beneath glacial lakes, which shaped its current valley and basin.
- It’s home to one of the world’s most photographed trees
- The famous Wānaka Tree, growing directly out of the lake, has become an international photography icon.
- Wānaka hosts Aotearoa’s largest mountain film festival
- The NZ Mountain Film and Book Festival brings adventure lovers and filmmakers from all over the world.
- There’s a real warbird airshow held here
- Warbirds Over Wānaka is a biennial airshow that features historic aircraft and aerobatic displays set against the Southern Alps.
🌍 Travel Planning Resources
These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.
- ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
- 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
- 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
- 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
- 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
- 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
- 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
- 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
- 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
- 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.
🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.
Ahakoa he iti, he pounamu
Despite being small, it is of great value