Lake Wānaka, New Zealand: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Lake Wānaka is a hidden treasure in the South Island of New Zealand. It’s a mix of natural wonders, exciting outdoor activities, and local charm. If you love hiking, lake activities, or cultural experiences, Wānaka is perfect for you. But what else can you discover beyond the famous #ThatWanakaTree? Let’s explore the top things to do in this amazing place.

• Wānaka is a popular destination in New Zealand’s South Island, known for its turquoise lakes and snow-capped mountains.
• The town offers a variety of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and skydiving in the summer, and skiing in the winter.
• Visitors can explore Mount Aspiring National Park, go on boat tours and cruises, and discover iconic photography spots like #ThatWanakaTree.
• Wānaka is easily accessible, located only an hour away from the nearby city of Queenstown.
• The region features lavender farms, vineyards, and forests alongside the stunning lake and mountain landscapes.

In the heart of New Zealand’s Otago region, Lake Wānaka shines as a true gem. It’s surrounded by the Crown Range and the Southern Alps. This town is a perfect spot for South Island adventure, with its natural beauty, outdoor fun, and local charm.

Lake Wānaka is the fourth-largest lake in New Zealand. It’s famous for its clear waters and stunning mountain views. The town of Wānaka is lively, with great hotels, restaurants, and shops for visitors.

The area boasts beautiful waterfalls, lush forests, and the famous Mount Aspiring National Park. This park borders the lake, adding to its natural wonders.

The best time to visit Lake Wānaka varies based on what you like. Summer (December to February) is perfect for outdoor fun, with warm days and sunshine. Winter (June to August) is great for skiing at Cardrona and Treble Cone.

Lake Wānaka is about an hour from Queenstown. It’s easy to get to for day trips or longer stays. Queenstown Airport is the closest, where you can rent a car for around $50 NZD per day.

Or, take a shuttle bus from Queenstown or Wānaka to ski fields like Cardrona. A return trip costs about $40 NZD.

Lake Wānaka is a must-see for anyone in the Otago region or the South Island of New Zealand. It offers stunning views, outdoor fun, and local charm.

Wanaka is a gem in the Southern Alps of New Zealand’s South Island. It’s a haven for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts. From thrilling hikes to peaceful water activities, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top attractions and activities that make Wanaka a must-see.

The Roy’s Peak Track is a favorite among hikers. It offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. This 16 km hike takes 5 to 7 hours to finish.

For a shorter hike, try the Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain Track. It’s a 7.3 km loop with amazing views.

For those seeking excitement, the Wildwire via ferrata is a high-altitude climb. It’s the world’s highest waterfall cable climb. The Level 2 climb lasts 4 to 5 hours.

The Rob Roy Glacier Track is perfect for a calm glacier hike. It’s a 10 km round trip that takes 3 to 4 hours.

Mount Aspiring National Park is just north of Wanaka. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with rugged peaks and glaciers. The Siberia Experience offers a scenic flight, hiking, and a jet boat ride to explore the park.

Lake Wanaka is a must-see. Enjoy a boat cruise for stunning views. Or rent a kayak or paddleboard from Paddle Wanaka to explore hidden spots. Fishing is also popular here.

Wanaka has many scenic walking trails for all levels. Try the Glendhu Bay Track, Beacon Point Walk, and Mount Iron Track. The town is also famous for its photogenic spots, like the #ThatWanakaTree.

Wanaka offers adventures and peaceful moments for all. Explore the stunning landscapes, tackle epic hikes, and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful part of New Zealand.

The Roy’s Peak Track is a top choice for hikers in New Zealand’s South Island. It’s just 10 minutes from Wanaka town. This 16 km hike takes 5-7 hours, offering stunning views of Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring National Park.

The hike is known for its tough climb, with a 1,228 meter elevation gain. The trail is straightforward but steep. Be ready for a tough climb and descent.

The lookout point is perfect for photos. For the best light, start early. Spring and autumn are the best times to hike. Winter hikers need alpine gear.

• Distance: 16 km (10 miles) return
• Elevation gain: 1,258 meters (4,127 feet)
• Estimated hiking time: 6-7 hours
• Peak elevation: 1,758 meters (5,177 feet)
• Parking capacity: Approximately 100 vehicles
• Closure period: October 1st to November 10th for lambing season

Start early and bring water, snacks, and the right gear. The views make this hike unforgettable for outdoor lovers.

“The Roy’s Peak hike may be challenging, but the views from the top are simply unbeatable. It’s a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast visiting Wanaka.”

Mount Aspiring National Park is in the beautiful Otago region of New Zealand. It’s a paradise for outdoor lovers and those who love nature. The park covers a huge area of 3,562 square kilometers (1,375 square miles).

Mount Aspiring is the tallest mountain in the park, standing at 3,033 meters (9,950 feet). The park has everything from lush forests to stunning alpine lakes and glaciers. It’s a place full of adventure and beauty.

• The Rob Roy Glacier Track is a 10km round-trip hike. It takes 3-4 hours and offers amazing views of the Matukituki River and the Rob Roy Glacier.
• The Brewster Hut hike is tough but worth it. It climbs 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) in a few kilometers and takes about 3 hours each way.
• The Siberia Valley has many hiking options for all skill levels. You can choose from half-day to full-day hikes.
• The Aspiring Hut walk is easy. It’s a 2-hour (one-way) trek that lets you see the park’s peaceful landscapes.

To get to Mount Aspiring National Park from Wanaka, it’s a 2-hour drive. Always check the trails and weather before you go. This ensures a safe and fun trip.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a top spot for hiking and nature. It’s close to Wanaka and offers many trails and sights. It’s a key place to visit in the New Zealand national parks and the Otago region tourism scene.

Lake Wānaka is a gem in the Southern Alps of New Zealand. It offers many water activities and adventures. From calm boat cruises to exciting water sports, it has something for everyone. Visitors can dive into the natural beauty of the area.

Discover Lake Wānaka’s beauty on a boat tour or cruise. You can take a one-hour trip to Ruby Island or longer ones to Stevenson Island. For a special evening, try a sunset cruise and watch the sun set behind the mountains.

• Kayaking: Paddle across the calm waters and enjoy the scenery at your pace.
• Paddleboarding: Glide on the lake’s surface and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
• Jet Skiing: Feel the rush of speeding across the waves and see the shoreline from a new angle.

Lake Wānaka is a favorite spot for anglers. It’s known for its trout and salmon fishing. The Wānaka Yacht Club offers beautiful views of the lake and mountains for fishing.

Looking for a calm cruise, an exciting water sport, or fishing? Lake Wānaka has it all. Its wide range of activities promises memorable experiences for visitors to New Zealand’s South Island.

In the calm waters of Lake Wanaka, New Zealand, stands the famous #ThatWanakaTree. This small willow tree is a natural wonder and a top spot for photos. It became famous in 2014 when it won a photography award.

But Wanaka has more than just the #ThatWanakaTree. Places like Beacon Point, Bremner Bay Beach, and Glendhu Bay Lookout offer amazing views. They show off the beauty of New Zealand’s Southern Alps and Lake Wanaka.

For the best photos, visit these spots in the early morning or at sunset. This time gives you the best light to capture Wanaka’s serene and moody beauty.

Whether you’re a pro photographer or just love nature, Wanaka has plenty to offer. It’s full of New Zealand Instagram locations and Wanaka photography spots that will amaze and inspire you.

Wanaka is a nature lover’s dream, with many scenic trails to explore. You can walk or bike along lakesides and mountain paths. It’s a chance to see the area’s stunning beauty up close.

The Glendhu Bay Track is a 10 km path that’s great for hiking and biking. It runs along Lake Wanaka’s shores, offering amazing views of the mountains.

For a shorter trip, try the Waterfall Creek Walk and Beacon Point Walk. They’re easy to follow and show off the lake and local plants. These paths are good for everyone, including families.

Wanaka is a top spot for mountain biking, with trails for all skill levels. You can rent bikes in town to hit the trails. The Mount Iron Track is a 4.5 km loop that gives you great views of Lake Wanaka.

Wanaka has trails for all kinds of adventures. Whether you want a calm walk or a thrilling bike ride, there’s something for you. It’s a great way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

The Wanaka Lavender Farm is just a seven-minute drive from Lake Wanaka. It offers a unique experience for visitors to the Otago region. The farm’s stunning lavender fields are a key part of New Zealand’s agritourism scene.

Walking through the lavender fields, you’ll feel the calming scent of lavender. It’s a peaceful place. Photographers love it here, especially for wedding and engagement photos.

The farm has a gift shop with lavender products like oils and bath salts. You can also find lavender honey and baked goods. The cafe serves lavender treats, letting you enjoy the farm’s offerings.

Visiting the Wanaka Lavender Farm lets you see the beauty of lavender and learn about the region’s farming. It’s a special place in the Otago region. It’s a must-see for anyone wanting a memorable experience in New Zealand’s Wanaka area.

“The Wanaka Lavender Farm is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly immersive and sensory experience in the heart of New Zealand’s stunning Otago region.”

Wanaka’s culinary scene and wineries are a perfect match for your South Island trip. Start at Rippon Winery, a family-owned spot with amazing views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. They offer free tastings of six award-winning wines and share their biodynamic farming methods.

Rippon Winery is open from 12 pm to 5 pm, every day. It’s the ideal place for an afternoon of wine tasting.

Wanaka is in the Central Otago wine region, famous for its Pinot Noir. Besides Rippon, there are many other wineries to explore. Each one has its own charm and wine offerings.

Many wineries welcome visitors for tastings. They share the history and techniques of Otago’s winemaking. Spend an afternoon tasting different wines and learning about the region.

After tasting local wines, enjoy Wanaka’s culinary scene. The town has many outdoor cafes and restaurants. They serve fresh, seasonal food with stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the mountains.

Whether you want casual food or a fancy meal, Wanaka has it all. You’ll love the flavors and the beautiful views. Your visit will be unforgettable.