Things To Do
in Wanaka
Wanaka is a picturesque town located on the South Island of New Zealand, nestled beside a pristine lake and surrounded by majestic mountain ranges. The town is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, skiing, and water sports. Wanaka's vibrant arts and culture scene, with galleries and events showcasing local talent, adds to its charm.
The relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make Wanaka a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $10
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $80 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike up to the iconic Roys Peak for stunning views over Lake Wanaka. Bring water and snacks to enjoy at the summit while soaking in the picturesque scenery.
After your hike, head to the local cafes for a hearty lunch and enjoy some delicious New Zealand coffee. Explore the Wanaka Lavender Farm to immerse yourself in the fragrant fields.
End your day with a relaxing stroll along the lakefront and watch the sunset. Consider dining at a waterfront restaurant for a delightful meal with a view.
Rent a bike and take a ride on the scenic Cardrona Valley Road. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful landscapes as you pedal through the rural countryside.
Stop by the Cardrona Distillery for a tour and tasting session, where you can learn about the craft of whiskey making. Grab lunch at their restaurant, which features local ingredients.
Time to unwind with some live music at a local bar. Also consider catching an outdoor movie at the iconic Cinema Paradiso.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery with mountains, lakes, and outdoor activities.
- Access to a variety of adventure sports, including skiing, hiking, and water sports.
- A laid-back lifestyle with a strong sense of community.
- Great for families, with excellent schools and facilities.
- Cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living, especially in terms of housing.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to crowded areas during peak seasons.
- Public transportation can be limited, requiring a car to get around.
- Remote location may make travel to other regions more time-consuming.
Best Activities in Wanaka
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife with various trails suitable for all skill levels, ranging from short walks to multi-day hikes.
Experience the thrill of mountain biking with a range of dedicated tracks that cater to both beginners and experienced riders, set in beautiful natural scenery.
Enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Wanaka while kayaking, with opportunities to paddle to isolated beaches and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Get your adrenaline pumping with a tandem skydive, providing an unforgettable experience and spectacular aerial views of the lake and the Southern Alps.
Try your luck fishing in the Clutha River, known for its abundance of trout and beautiful surroundings, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
Visit local vineyards for wine tasting, enjoying the picturesque landscapes and sampling some of New Zealand's finest wines.
Take a short walk to see the famous lone willow tree on the shores of Lake Wanaka, a popular photography spot and a symbol of the region.
In the winter months, enjoy skiing or snowboarding at Treble Cone ski area, known for its great terrain and stunning views over Lake Wanaka.
Tours
Uncover the best of Wanaka with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Wanaka
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning glacial lake surrounded by mountains, offering breathtaking views and numerous spots for photography, particularly at sunset.
A popular hiking trail that provides panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps, ideal for capturing dramatic landscape photos.
An iconic lone tree standing in the water of Lake Wanaka, perfect for a unique shot, especially during sunrise or sunset.
A wilderness area featuring stunning ranges, rivers, and valleys, providing countless opportunities for nature photography.
A picturesque bay with a beautiful beach area, offering great views of the lake and mountains, perfect for leisurely photography.
A vibrant farm filled with lavender fields, providing colorful and fragrant backdrops for stunning photos.
A scenic valley famous for picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, vineyards, and historic buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of the region.
An iconic old-fashioned cinema with a unique interior, providing quirky photo opportunities both inside and outside.
A scenic walking track that runs along the outlet of Lake Wanaka, offering multiple viewpoints of the lake and surrounding mountains.
A quirky tourist attraction featuring a maze and optical illusion rooms, providing fun and unique photo opportunities.
Food in Wanaka
Wanaka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Served fresh and often steamed or grilled, these mussels are a delicacy not to be missed. Sample them at Kai Whakapai Café & Bar, which offers a picturesque lakefront setting.
Must-Try!
Venison dishes are popular due to the abundance of wild red deer in the region. The Federal Diner is known for its flavorful venison burger, and can be a great place to enjoy this local specialty.
Known for its unique flavor and health benefits, Manuka honey is a must-try. Visit the Wanaka Honey Shop to sample and purchase a variety of high-quality honey products.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Wanaka better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Thursday from 3 pm to 6 pm, the Wanaka Farmers Market offers a fantastic array of locally grown produce, artisanal food products, and street food stalls with diverse options ranging from organic fruits to gourmet crepes.
On Friday evenings, the Food Truck Round Up in Pembroke Park presents a vibrant selection of international street food, including Korean BBQ, Mexican tacos, and wood-fired pizzas, making it a great spot for a casual and diverse dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Wanaka, the natural environment is highly valued. It's important to respect the local landscapes, wildlife, and pristine waters. Follow local guidelines when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, and always take your rubbish with you.
Acknowledging and respecting Maori culture and heritage is vital. Familiarize yourself with basic Maori customs, such as the use of greetings like 'Kia ora.' Be open to learning about local history and customs, especially regarding the significance of land and water.
Kiwis value punctuality and appreciate straightforward communication. Arriving on time for meetings or social engagements is seen as a sign of respect. When discussing or addressing issues, it's best to be direct yet polite.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Wanaka with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Wanaka
Ensure a smooth experience
In Wanaka, New Zealand, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected as service staff are usually paid a living wage. However, if service exceeds expectations, customers may leave a small tip (around 10% of the bill) as a gesture of appreciation, particularly in restaurants and for taxi drivers.
Payments in Wanaka can be made using various methods, including cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps. Most restaurants, shops, and accommodation providers accept major credit cards. Additionally, ATMs are available throughout the town for those who prefer cash transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Wanaka.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Wanaka is characterized by blossoming flowers and a gradual warming of temperatures. Expect mild weather, with average highs around 15-20°C (59-68°F). It’s a great time for hiking, as trails become accessible, and the beautiful landscapes are alive with color.
Summer in Wanaka is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). It’s a peak time for outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and swimming in the lake. Expect vibrant events and a bustling atmosphere with tourists enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and stunning foliage as the leaves change colors. Daily highs are usually between 15-20°C (59-68°F). This period is ideal for tranquil walks, wine tours, and enjoying the local harvest festivals. Expect fewer crowds compared to summer.
Winter in Wanaka is cold, with temperatures often dropping to 0-5°C (32-41°F). It’s a prime season for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains, attracting winter sports enthusiasts. Expect beautiful snow-capped landscapes and a cozy atmosphere around the town.
Wanaka at Night
Hiking in Wanaka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hike offering stunning panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. The track is steep but well-maintained, and it's a great option for those looking for a challenging ascent.
A shorter, easier hike that provides beautiful views of Wanaka and the surrounding areas. The loop track is great for families and can be completed in a couple of hours.
A scenic track that takes you around Diamond Lake and offers breathtaking views of the area. The trail is moderately challenging and showcases the natural beauty of the region.
A relatively flat walk along the outlet of Lake Wanaka, providing a leisurely hike with views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. It's suitable for all fitness levels.
A challenging hike that rewards trekkers with incredible views of Lake Hawea and the Southern Alps. It's a longer trail, making it ideal for experienced hikers.
A flat, easy walking track that follows the shores of Lake Wanaka. This track is perfect for a relaxing stroll and is accessible for all ages.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Wanaka through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Wanaka by plane.
Located approximately 57 kilometers from Wanaka, Queenstown Airport serves as the nearest international airport and offers flights to several international destinations.
Situated about 480 kilometers from Wanaka, Christchurch Airport is the largest airport in the South Island of New Zealand, providing a variety of international flights.
Approximately 250 kilometers from Wanaka, Dunedin Airport offers limited international services and is primarily a domestic hub.
Also about 250 kilometers from Wanaka, serving as a secondary international airport with connections to Australia and other destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Wanaka, predominantly comprised of New Zealand Europeans (Pākehā).
The indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, representing a smaller percentage of the population in Wanaka.
Includes a range of ethnicities, such as Chinese, Indian, and others, representing a growing demographic in Wanaka.
Includes individuals from various Pacific Island nations, present in smaller numbers compared to other groups.
This includes people from diverse backgrounds not categorized in the main groups, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Wanaka.
The Soul of Wanaka
Discover the essence of Wanaka through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Wanaka is known for its proximity to several ski resorts, making skiing a popular winter sport.
Alongside skiing, snowboarding attracts many enthusiasts to the slopes in the colder months.
With numerous trails and bike parks, mountain biking is a favored activity during the warmer seasons.
The surrounding landscapes provide stunning hiking trails, appealing to outdoor lovers year-round.
Lake Wanaka and nearby rivers offer excellent fishing opportunities for both locals and visitors.
Activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular on Lake Wanaka during the summer.
Wanaka features several beautiful golf courses, attracting both enthusiasts and casual players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wanaka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Wanaka cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering diverse plant-based dishes and alternatives such as nut milk for coffee.
Visitors with gluten intolerances will find a range of gluten-free choices at most cafes and restaurants, allowing them to savor the local cuisine without restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Wanaka with these cultural adventures.
