Best Places to Stay in Wanaka

Finding the right place to stay in Wanaka can shape your whole experience of this lakeside gem. Do you want to wake up with mountain views at your doorstep, step straight out to the lakefront, or pitch your tent under the stars in a quiet holiday park? Wanaka offers it all from affordable cabins and camping grounds to modern apartments and boutique stays.

Whether you’re here for alpine adventures, a relaxed wine weekend, or simply to sit by That Wānaka Tree and watch the sun dip behind the Southern Alps, there’s accommodation to suit every kind of traveller. In this guide, we’ve chosen some of the best places to stay in Wanaka. Each option has its own character, facilities and location, making it easier to match your stay with the journey you want to have.

1. Mt Aspiring Holiday Park

Just a short drive from town, Mt Aspiring Holiday Park is a favourite for travellers who want a relaxed, natural setting but still close to Wanaka’s main attractions. The park is surrounded by mountain views and tucked into a peaceful valley. It’s well-placed for outdoor adventures, whether you’re heading up to Roys Peak, cycling the lakeside trails, or driving towards Mount Aspiring National Park. Accommodation ranges from simple campsites to comfortable self-contained units. This makes it a flexible choice for families, couples or solo travellers.

Highlights:

• Variety of options: powered & non-powered sites, cabins and self-contained units
• Great facilities: BBQs, playgrounds, seasonal outdoor pool and games room
• Location: close to Roys Peak, Rippon Vineyard, Treble Cone and only a few minutes’ drive to town
• Relaxed environment with space to unwind after a big day outdoors

2. Hampshire Holiday Parks – Wanaka

Centrally located and easy-going, Hampshire Holiday Parks (formerly Wanaka Lakeview) is a great option for travellers who want to stay close to town while keeping that classic Kiwi camping atmosphere. From here, you can wander to the lakefront, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or stroll into town for supplies — all without needing to drive. Accommodation ranges from tent sites through to simple cabins and self-contained units, so you can choose the comfort level that suits your trip.

Highlights:

• Excellent location: walking distance to Wanaka’s lakefront, cafes, and shops
• Choice of accommodation: tents, cabins and self-contained units
• Facilities include BBQs, playgrounds, communal kitchens and laundry
• Family-friendly with a mix of travellers from backpackers to campervanners

3. Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park

For those who love the security and extra comforts of the TOP 10 brand, Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park ticks all the boxes. Recently renovated, it offers modern cabins and motel-style units alongside traditional camping sites, all surrounded by trees with views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a quieter spot than the central parks, making it ideal for families or anyone looking for a more restful stay while still being only a short drive to the heart of town.

Highlights:

• Accommodation styles: motel rooms, cabins, powered sites and tent sites
• Modern facilities: communal kitchen and BBQs, spa/sauna and WiFi
• Set in a peaceful, leafy environment with plenty of shade
• Reliable TOP 10 service and cleanliness

4. Lakeshore Springs

If you want to stay somewhere that feels a little more private and boutique, Lakeshore Springs is a hidden gem. These apartments offer a stylish and spacious base just moments from the lake with many featuring sweeping views over Wanaka and the surrounding peaks. It’s a top choice for couples or small groups looking for more space, self-catering options and a quiet retreat to return to at the end of the day.

Highlights:

• Apartment-style accommodation with kitchen and living space
• Close to the lake and only a short walk into town
• Many units come with mountain or lake views
• Ideal for couples or families wanting privacy and comfort

5. Belvedere Apartments

Tucked into a quiet street just behind town, Belvedere Apartments blend convenience with comfort. Each apartment is fully self-contained with a kitchen and laundry, giving you the flexibility to cook your own meals and settle in comfortably. Step outside and you’re only minutes from cafés, supermarkets and the lakefront. It’s a great base if you want independence but still want to stay close to Wanaka’s lively centre.

Highlights:

• Fully self-contained apartments with kitchens and laundry
• Excellent location: short walk to town and lakefront
• Spacious layouts with modern furnishings and free WiFi
• Great option for couples, families or longer stays

Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer to camp under the stars, stay in a family-friendly holiday park, or unwind in the comfort of a private apartment, Wanaka has a place to match your journey. Each option brings you closer to the spirit of this alpine town — a balance of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable scenery. Choosing the right stay isn’t just about a bed for the night; it’s about finding the perfect base to explore everything Wanaka has to offer.

🌍 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
• 🚆12Go Asia – Compare and book trains, buses, and ferries across Asia in one place with 12Go.
• 🛡️ 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.