Whether or not you’re into images, journey or ingesting wine, you’re positive to search out one thing good in our information to one of the best issues to do in Wanaka, New Zealand.
Wanaka is likely one of the most visited and favoured cities in New Zealand for some good causes.
Each winter, ski lovers and vacationer flock into this small pretty city to benefit from the close by ski fields together with the superb winter vibe happening all through the city.
Nonetheless, there are extra issues to do in Wanaka than simply having enjoyable within the snow.
Our Listing of the Finest Issues to Do in Wanaka, New Zealand
Wanaka is positioned round an hour’s drive from Queenstown on the South Island of New Zealand. It’s positioned proper by Lake Wanaka and the attractive peaks of Mt Aspiring Nationwide Park, with some spectacular hikes proper by its doorstep.
Planning a visit to Wanaka? Listed here are one of the best issues to do in Wanaka for an unforgettable journey!
READ MORE – Right here’s our full information on the finest issues to do in Queenstown!
Take pleasure in Panoramic Views on Roy’s Peak
Roy’s Peak is likely one of the finest hikes I’ve ever taken in my life, significantly, and no checklist of Wanaka actions could be full with out mentioning it.
Roy’s Peak Monitor can be arguably essentially the most well-known ‘Instagram’ spot in all of New Zealand, and pictures of individuals standing on a hill with the lakes and peaks of Wanaka surrounding them are fairly iconic.
Positioned simply 10 minutes from Wanaka city, Roy’s Peak Monitor is well accessible for every kind of travellers, even when you don’t have a automobile.
It’s a quite simple observe, the place you’ll be able to actually see Roy’s Peak from the carpark, which can be the place you’ll discover the doorway of the path.
On the entrance to Roy’s Peak Monitor, you’ll see an unsupervised donation field accumulating the $2 entrance payment.
On the early a part of the Roy’s Peak Monitor, you’ll be passing by some personal land properties, with loads of sheep roaming round. And guess what, their poo is in all places too. Watch the place you’re stepping to keep away from the ‘recent treats’.
There are principally three levels throughout the hike – inexperienced, yellow and white. Should you’re not visiting throughout the winter, then overlook in regards to the final one.
Within the first half, you’ll end up climbing at a hotter temperature, I wouldn’t suggest placing in your jacket simply but. Inexperienced grasses are protecting the bottom, brown poo is in all places.
For the second half, you’ll cease seeing inexperienced vegetation, as an alternative, you’ll discover loads of yellowish shrubs surrounding you. In winter, you may discover a layer of ice coating them.
Approaching the height, you’ll begin your battle in opposition to the snow. It may get greater than 1 ft tall of snow throughout winter on Roy’s Peak!
And when you attain Roy’s Peak, you’ll get among the finest panoramic views on the planet, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, overlooking Lake Wanaka. It’s undoubtedly one of many prime issues to see in Wanaka.
It’ll take round 2 hours to achieve the height by way of the Roy’s Peak observe. It’s steep all the way in which up, and an important day to problem your health!
Should you’re aiming to get your Instagram picture, this spot isn’t truly on the summit! You’ll know you’re there although since you’ll most likely discover an enormous line up of individuals ready for his or her likelihood to get the shot.
When you’ve grabbed it, be sure to hold strolling the Half-hour or so to the summit, which is one thing most individuals don’t trouble to do.
READ MORE – Love being outdoor? Don’t miss our final information to the finest climbing in New Zealand for each the South and North Island!
Benefit from the Wanaka Metropolis View From Mount Iron
Numerous articles name Mount Iron Monitor a stroll as an alternative of a hike, however I’d name it a hike as a result of it’s identical to the Roys Peak Monitor, however a lot shorter.
Whereas the altitude of 250m doesn’t sound so spectacular, the view it provides undoubtedly is.
On the height, you’ll get an unobstructed view over the snowy mountains of the Southern Alps, Lake Wanaka, and the picturesque Wanaka city.
The loop observe goes 4.5km, and it’ll take you round an hour to get to the height.
Nonetheless, it’s slightly tough to search out the parking zone to begin your hike. It’s positioned 2km outdoors of city, and the carpark is so small that typically you wouldn’t even discover it. So pay additional consideration once you’re driving there.
On the peak, you’ll additionally discover a board showcasing all of the names of the peaks you see on the Southern Alps. It’s one thing it is best to embody in your checklist of what to see in Wanaka.
The doorway to Mount Iron Monitor is freed from cost.
Try this put up when you’re planning a 10 Days Street Journey Itinerary in New Zealand South Island
Go Jet boating
Whereas Queenstown is most well-known for its superior jet boating experiences, if you wish to break free from the crowds and do it someplace equally beautiful, undoubtedly attempt it in Wanaka!
A brief drive from city will get you to the Clutha River, the place you soar on a jetboat and begin zooming round at breakneck speeds.
It’s an important thrill, and also you’ll be blown away at simply how expert the drivers are.
Different jetboat excursions in Wanaka could take you to Matukituki River, one other stunning river close to city.
All transfers from Wanaka and security gear offered once you guide your tour.
Admire the Southern Alps on the Rob Roy Glacier Monitor
Positioned in Mount Aspiring Nationwide Park, Rob Roy Glacier Monitor is one more one of many prime locations to go to in Wanaka.
I’d suggest this solely for individuals who have a automobile, because the observe begins within the parking zone, barely greater than an hour drive from Wanaka city by way of Matukituki Valley Street.
It’s an ideal observe for you who loves journey, particularly when you haven’t seen a glacier earlier than.
The hike is comparatively easy, and also you gained’t get misplaced due to the well-marked path. What’s difficult is the continuous gradual steep grade.
On the summit, you’ll benefit from the view of waterfalls plunging from the hills, and lively glaciers with avalanche sounds once in a while. The views in Mount Aspiring Nationwide Park are beautiful!
Right here’s a security tip for you: Should you’re planning to have a picnic or lunch on the viewpoint, be very conscious of the Kea birds.
They’re not afraid of people, and so they’ll hold asking for meals persistently. However it’s unlawful to feed them. And you may’t scare them away. Fairly irritating, huh?
For jaw-dropping views in Mount Aspiring Nationwide Park whereas visiting Wanaka, guide a sizzling air balloon flight!
READ MORE – Don’t miss out on exploring all the highest issues to do in Christchurch, one other gem of New Zealand!
Go Heli-Snowboarding within the Alps
Should you’re searching for one of the best issues to do in Wanaka in winter, and are a lover of snowboarding or snowboarding, then that is one of the best exercise you possibly can probably attempt.
New Zealand will get some nice snow throughout wintertime, however if you’re aiming to get recent activates the ski fields, you could be up there tremendous early, as they get tracked out in a short time.
Alternatively, you could have backcountry touring expertise to search out one of the best snow near city.
Fortunately there’s a strategy to get the best possible powder with out the stress or bodily exertion of skinning up a mountain.
Heli-skiing!
For all skiers and snowboarders, heli-accessed powder is a dream. Being lifted as much as the highest of a peak, dropping into untouched, bottomless snow, then being picked up on the backside to do it yet again.
Doesn’t get significantly better than that.
On our final go to to Wanaka we headed into the skies with Southern Lakes Heli, one of the best heli-skiing firm in Wanaka and Queenstown, and had essentially the most good situations ever.
Flying from city for quarter-hour we had been dropped into an enormous bowl within the Southern Alps, and for the following few hours managed to get 8 insanely epic runs in.
The terrain was great with out being overly troublesome (assume blue/purple runs in New Zealand), however the snow was superb and the views had been mind-blowing.
A scrumptious lunch was additionally offered proper there within the snow.
Heli-skiing or heli-boarding with Southern Lakes Heli isn’t an inexpensive exercise, however significantly is difficult to beat when making an attempt to think about one of the best journey exercise in Wanaka.
Learn all about our heli-skiing in Wanaka expertise right here.
Take pleasure in a Lake Wanaka Sundown Cruise
Lake Wanaka is significantly one of the vital stunning lakes in all of New Zealand’s South Island, which is why Wanaka has turn into such a well-liked place for locals and guests.
There are a selection of how you’ll be able to get pleasure from your time on Lake Wanaka (learn extra under), however essentially the most stress-free approach is unquestionably by taking a sundown cruise.
The sundown on the lake is a Wanaka should see!
This one-hour cruise leaves from the jetty downtown and contains one beverage of your selection as you cruise round Lake Wanaka.
Early bookings are obligatory throughout the peak season in New Zealand, as Lake Wanaka is a vacationer hotspot.
Take to the Air With Skydive Wanaka
I had my first-ever skydive in Wanaka, and it was one of the best choice I’ve ever made in New Zealand, though I used to be very tight on finances.
For an acrophobic like me, skydiving is one thing I’d by no means think about myself doing.
Skydive Wanaka workplace is positioned proper beside Wanaka Airport. And there are a number of how you possibly can guide your slot with them, however I discovered there’s no have to.
All you needed to do is register your self within the workplace, and also you’ll be organized for the flight in a really quick time. When it’s not that busy, after all.
I took the package deal of 15,000 ft skydive with 60 seconds free fall, photos and movies included. And I used to be extraordinarily happy with the standard of the photographs and movies, so price it.
Their orange old-school aircraft may carry round 8 pairs of company and instructors, with some seats reserved for the videographer, who will freefall together with you.
Should you’re planning on doing a skydive in New Zealand, I like to recommend Skydive Wanaka as a result of the view is just superb.
You’ll get to see the Southern Alps (Mt Prepare dinner & Mt Aspiring Nationwide Park included), Lake Wanaka, Lake Hawea, Wanaka city and all of the inexperienced farms down there throughout a transparent day.
If you could guide your skydive journey forward of time, you’ll be able to achieve this right here.
Snowboarding in Treble Cone
Do you know Treble Cone is the most important ski subject in New Zealand? Internet hosting over 550 hectares of the hill, Treble Cone additionally has quite a few trails for skiers of all ranges.
Each winter, Wanaka turns into so crowded as a result of everybody’s flying right here simply to benefit from the white powders. In truth, you’ll discover ski gear rental shops actually in all places throughout the city, very like a comfort retailer.
Treble Cone is positioned 40 minutes drive from Wanaka city close to the peaks of Mt Aspiring Nationwide Park. Additionally they have shuttle buses to hold you to and from when you don’t have a automobile. You’ll must pay for it after all.
Try the value for the season move, carry passes, and day passes right here on the Treble Cone web site.
Go Kayaking on Lake Wanaka
With Wanaka being proper on the lake, there’s little marvel so many individuals are instantly drawn to the large physique of water, surrounded by beautiful peaks.
Locals and vacationers are sometimes discovered down by the shore of Lake Wanaka, absorbing the views, and typically even swimming in the summertime months.
For a extremely enjoyable journey although, guide your self right into a half-day kayaking journey on Lake Wanaka with Paddle Wanaka.
The ‘Tiki Tour’ is a 4-hour kayaking tour that takes you to a few of the most scenic components of Lake Wanaka.
Refreshments are included, and naturally, the whole tour is made with an area skilled information, so even when you’re a newbie kayaker you’ll be in protected fingers.
Have Enjoyable in Puzzling World
Puzzling World has been among the finest family-friendly Wanaka points of interest for greater than 45 years now!
With an award-winning advanced of optical illusions, 3D maze, and puzzling rooms, Puzzling World receives greater than a quarter-million guests per 12 months now.
Nonetheless, Puzzling World is known for its Leaning Tower of Wanaka, leaning on an angle of a whopping 53 diploma! Usually the very first thing to be photographed by guests to the attraction.
Undoubtedly pay a go to to The Sculptillusion Gallery to take a look on the mysterious objects, work, and reversible figures.
Try their web site for the pricing right here!
Did I point out that they really have Psychic Problem? A problem the place you’ll be able to win a loopy $100,000 New Zealand {Dollars}. Sounds fairly absurd, proper? However they really have it there, though no person has but to say it.
Should you’re questioning what to do in Wanaka, New Zealand, then successful a cheeky $100k sounds fairly good to me!
I’ve heard of it however after all, I didn’t go for it so I don’t know a lot of the small print. Who is aware of, you is perhaps the fortunate one?
Go Driving at Cardrona Alpine Resort
If Treble Cone is a bit too superior for you, you’re in luck, as a result of the close by Cardrona Alpine Resort is likely one of the finest ski resorts in New Zealand for rookies, households and intermediates!
Only a quick drive from downtown Wanaka on the way in which to Queenstown, Cardrona (generally known as Cardies to locals) is likely one of the finest set-up ski fields within the South Island.
With 4 chair lifts servicing a considerable amount of enjoyable terrain, there are many runs for individuals of each means.
The ski faculty right here is improbable if you wish to get some classes, and freestylers shall be stoked with the standard of labor Cardrona’s park crew crushes out.
There’s additionally a number of scrumptious meals choices scattered across the hill, and a spot to seize a sizzling drink on the prime of the Chondola. Cardrona can be a well-liked place for quad biking and mountain biking within the hotter months.
Cardies was Alesha’s favorite resort on our current 7-hill snowboard journey we did across the South Island.
Extremely advisable when searching for what to do in Wanaka, New Zealand in winter.
Climbing in Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountains Monitor
Bizarre title, huh? The observe is definitely a mixture of two tracks, that are the Diamond Lake Circuit Monitor and Rocky Mountain Summit Monitor.
Like different tracks in New Zealand, the observe begins on the parking zone, positioned round 20-Half-hour’ drive from the city.
There are just a few tracks so that you can select from, a shorter Diamond Lake Circuit Monitor (45 minutes return) or Rocky Mountain Summit Monitor (3 hours return).
Throughout the winter, you’ll discover Diamond Lake frozen. It was as soon as an ice skating subject, however I’m unsure whether or not they nonetheless do it now. However aside from that, you’ll discover items of frozen floor within the shady components of the observe, so pay additional consideration to the place you step!
The Rocky Mountain Summit Monitor will carry you to the 775m peak of Rocky Mountain. And because the peak is kind of ‘rounded’, there are numerous areas so that you can sit again and loosen up.
Mountain biking is simply allowed till Diamond Lake solely, and never Rocky Mountain.
You’ll have an important view of Lake Wanaka and the close by snowy mountains of Mt Aspiring Nationwide Park. And by close by, I imply they’re actually simply throughout the quick valley. Appears so shut but to date.
Go to Mou Waho Island, the Lake on an Island on a Lake on an Island
Sure, you learn that proper. In Wanaka, there’s a fantastic spot that few vacationers actually hear about however is definitely fairly accessible if you realize the place to guide.
Mou Waho Island is a protected place on Lake Wanaka, underneath the management of the Division of Conservation.
It’s a chook sanctuary, with the uncommon flightless Buff Weka dwelling there, so the DoC have performed every little thing they’ll to make sure it stays predator-free.
Solely a choose variety of tour operators have permission to take guests to Mou Waho Island. So if you wish to try to see them you could guide a visit forward of time.
The spotlight of a go to to Mou Waho Island is after all the attractive lake discovered on the prime of the island. Assured to be a photographer’s and nature lover’s dream.
Chill out within the Wanaka Lavender Farm
Positioned just some minutes stroll from Wanaka city lies Wanaka Lavender Farm. It’s simply accessible for individuals who’re spending a day or two in Wanaka, and don’t have a automobile to get round.
With 10 acres of lavender fields and gardens, together with a number of cattle (together with alpacas and highland cows!), Wanaka Lavender Farm is a superb place to get a style of the nation really feel.
A budget entrance payment can be one of many causes I’m together with this farm on this article, at solely $5-10 relying on which season you go to.
After the stroll across the farm, you’ll be able to head over to the café and luxuriate in their tea and ice cream, constituted of their very own native elements. There are a bunch of souvenirs and items accessible within the retailer as nicely, together with important oils, soaps, perfumes, balms, and extra!
You’ll love Wanaka Lavender Farm even when you don’t fancy flowers and farms. The soothing ambiance can be a good way to loosen up after few days of snowboarding.
Not essentially the most adventurous of all of the Wanaka actions, however a beautiful one nonetheless.
Photographing That Wanaka Tree
That Wanaka Tree is unquestionably one of the vital photographed objects in New Zealand’s South Island. it, you’ll query your self how on earth is it dwelling in the midst of the lake, and nonetheless blooming each spring season?
Apart from being within the waters of Lake Wanaka, yet another factor that makes That Wanaka Tree particular is that it portrays completely different views in each season.
In Spring, you’ll discover inexperienced leaves on the branches. In winter, you’ll discover it bald, with white snow mountains on the background.
However one factor’s assured, you’ll get pleasure from your time taking photographs of the tree! And there aren’t as many vacationers as you assume. I visited throughout the winter when Lake Wanaka was most crowded, and I shared the seashore with just a few different travellers and photographers.
For one of the best time to go to That Wanaka Tree, I like to recommend visiting within the early morning throughout dawn or late night when the solar’s scratching the horizon. That’s the golden hours for photographing lakes.
Click on right here to learn our finest journey images ideas.
That is completely among the finest free issues to do in Wanaka, New Zealand.
Dogsledding and Cross Nation Snowboarding at Snow Farm
Reverse Cardrona Alpine Resort is the street to Snow Farm, one other among the finest Wanaka vacationer points of interest throughout wintertime.
Up right here you’ll be able to participate in a variety of superior actions, resembling cross nation snowboarding, snowshoeing, staying in a backcountry hut, and even canine sledding.
(Word – learn extra about if canine sledding is merciless or not right here)
Should you’re searching for a singular factor to do whereas in New Zealand, don’t miss a go to to Snow Farm.
Go Wine Tasting in Rippon
Being the oldest winery in Wanaka, Rippon is known for its distinctive wine manufacturing and picturesque views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps from the winery.
It’s been round for five generations in the identical household, establishing itself some good authority in the case of one of the best wine on the town.
Rippon is open for wine tasting each day, from 11 am to five pm day-after-day. The wine tasting is kind of casual, with 5 to 7 varieties of wines for tasting.
Like different vineyards in Central Otago area, Pinot Noir is the signature.
Wanaka Journey Information
Now that you realize all the highest Wanaka factors of curiosity, allow us to enable you to plan the remainder of your journey by sharing one of the best lodging and eating places on this nook of New Zealand.
The place to Keep in Wanaka, New Zealand
Wanaka is a small New Zealand city, however there are many superior lodging choices, relying in your fashion and finances.
Our Prime Decide for Lodging in Wanaka, New Zealand – Wanaka Homestead
From time to time we come throughout a mode of lodging that makes us need to open up our personal guesthouse, welcoming buddies from all over the world.
Wanaka Homestead was just about precisely what our design could be. (Try our Wanaka homestead evaluation)
This totally spectacular place is positioned proper close to That Wanaka Tree, in a leafy and quiet finish of city heading out in the direction of Roy’s Peak and Treble Cone.
From the second you arrive, you’re feeling such as you’re at residence. The property is giant with an enormous garden out the entrance, surrounded by gardens and a lofty tree.
The primary lodge is the place the vast majority of individuals keep, and with 5 ensuite bedrooms and essentially the most attractive sitting space with a fire possible, it’s an important spot to relaxation up for {couples} on a fun-filled journey round Wanaka.
There are additionally two smaller self-contained lodges on the property, a 2-bedroom and a 3-bedroom with their very own devoted kitchen and dwelling house, so when you’re travelling as a gaggle these are nice to guide.
Each morning a home-cooked breakfast is served up in the primary lodge, and there’s espresso, tea and biscuits accessible 24/7.
Wanaka Homestead has an out of doors sizzling tub accessible for company, and an out of doors fire that persons are welcome to sit down round within the evenings.
The supervisor Karen is really pretty. She radiates positivity and genuinely cares in regards to the company’ expertise and keep.
The house owners are Alan and Kaaleen, from Scotland and New Zealand, and having lived abroad for a few years, they’ve now returned to Wanaka to assist run the guesthouse.
They’re equally pleasant and caring, and we spent many hours merely sitting across the eating desk, ingesting espresso and sharing tales.
There’s loads of parking for company, and though it’s solely a 15-minute stroll to downtown, additionally they have bikes accessible.
We spent 4 nights on the Wanaka Homestead on our final go to to New Zealand, and it will now be our go-to lodging each time we return.
We can not suggest this place extremely sufficient. Should you guide, and it is best to, be sure to say hello to Karen, Alan and Kaaleen for us!
Finest Backpacker Hostel in Wanaka, New Zealand – Journey Wanaka Hostel
New Zealand has some unbelievable, high-quality and well-rated hostels, and in Wanaka, it’s not any completely different. All of the hostels right here charge not less than an 8 out of 10, with Journey Wanaka Hostel having superb evaluations.
It’s a social place, with an epic communal space for backpackers to hang around. There’s additionally a pleasant mixture of dorm rooms in addition to personal rooms.
The hostel has free bikes, a backyard, and a country really feel.
Finest Midrange Lodge in Wanaka, New Zealand – Lakeview Motel
Don’t let the flowery title idiot you – Lakeview Motel is definitely very reasonably priced contemplating the standard and views you get whereas staying in New Zealand.
The rooms are cozy, and the situation is superior, being very near downtown. Nicely well worth the price ticket when you’re searching for a mid-range lodge in Wanaka.
Finest Luxurious Lodge in Wanaka, New Zealand – Lakeside Residences
If cash isn’t a problem, then it is best to splurge out and keep in essentially the most stunning lodging in Wanaka – the Lakeside Residences.
Because the title suggests, this place has self-contained residences a stones-throw from Lake Wanaka, so you’ll be able to actually unfold out and be in absolute consolation on the town.
Finest Various Lodging in Wanaka, New Zealand – Oasis Yurt Lodge
Typically you simply need to guide into one thing that could be a little bit completely different from the remainder, with out having to compromise high quality.
That’s the place Oasis Yurts Wanaka fills the void for finest various and eco-friendly lodging choices in Wanaka!
Because the title suggests, right here you’ll be able to keep in an precise yurt set on a surprising property simply outdoors of city.
These aren’t the tough and primary yurts you may discover in Central Asia although – these are luxurious, heat, extraordinarily snug and classy.
The house owners Jo and Rusty have spent years constructing this world-class yurt camp, utilizing eco-friendly merchandise and accountable suppliers.
There’s an enormous communal kitchen you should utilize in addition to numerous inexperienced house to get pleasure from.
We first met Jo and Rusty in Canada 8 years in the past, and it’s superb to see how they’ve adopted their goals in constructing such a fantastic lodging in a surprising a part of the planet.
The place to Eat and Drink in Wanaka, New Zealand
For such a small city, there’s no scarcity of superior locations to eat and drink in Wanaka, New Zealand.
Listed here are a few of our favourites:
Large Fig serves up big plates of Mediterranean-inspired dishes day-after-day for lunch and dinner. Simply select your plate measurement, your meat, greens and salad, and the workers will hand over the best-tasting meals on the town.
Bombay Palace is the place to go if you would like nice Indian meals. Not low-cost, however improbable with nice service.
Amigos has superb Mexican meals and a full of life ambiance. You may even put on a sombrero when you down low-cost bottles of Mexican beer!
Lake Bar does nice pub-style meals at reasonably priced costs.
Rhyme and Purpose is one of the best microbrewery on the town. Each Saturday additionally they have dwell music. It’s a bit out of city although, so hire a bicycle or take a taxi.
Cork Bar is our favorite place for cocktails and to kick off an superior evening of partying in Wanaka.
Woody’s is a enjoyable little sports activities bar, with pool tables and an important vibe.
How Was Our Listing of What to Do in Wanaka?
So listed below are the highest issues to do in Wanaka, New Zealand. What do you consider them? Let me know within the remark part under.
However, I hope you get pleasure from New Zealand as a lot as I did. Be protected, and blissful travelling.
AUTHOR’S NOTE – This put up is a joint-collaboration between Yen from Wandering Journal, and Alesha and Jarryd from NOMADasaurus. We now have each visited Wanaka quite a few instances to carry you this final journey information.
DISCLAIMER: A few of the hyperlinks on this article are affiliate hyperlinks, which implies when you guide lodging, excursions or purchase a product, we’ll obtain a small fee at no additional value to you. These commissions assist us hold creating extra free journey content material to assist individuals plan their holidays and adventures. We solely suggest one of the best lodging, excursions and merchandise that ourselves or our improbable editorial crew have personally skilled, and repeatedly evaluation these. Thanks to your help, type buddy!