Things To Do
in Wanaka
Wanaka is a scenic alpine town set on the edge of Lake Wanaka with a dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps. It's a year-round outdoor playground offering water activities, hiking, and access to world-class ski fields nearby. The town blends laid-back cafes and boutiques with rugged wilderness just a short drive away.
Visitors come for the stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Wanaka and check into your accommodation with stunning views of Lake Wanaka. Take some time to unpack and settle in before venturing out to explore. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakefront to familiarize yourself with the area.
Grab a bite at a local café, savoring the flavors of freshly made cuisine that highlights the region's produce. After lunch, visit the Wanaka Lavender Farm, where you can stroll through fragrant fields and learn about lavender’s many uses. A relaxing afternoon in this beautiful setting is sure to lift your spirits.
Head to a lakeside restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in locally sourced dishes. As the sun sets, take in the breathtaking views over the lake while enjoying your meal. Finish the evening with a peaceful walk along the shoreline, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Start your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a thrilling adventure at the nearby Cardrona Alpine Resort. Whether you choose mountain biking or hiking, the stunning mountain landscape provides an exhilarating backdrop for your adventures. As you ascend, revel in the panoramic views that Wanaka has to offer.
Return to Wanaka for lunch at a quirky food truck or local bistro, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, spend your afternoon exploring the Wanaka Tree, an iconic symbol of the area, and take plenty of photos. The serene surrounding environment invites you to relax and soak up the beauty of this magical location.
Wind down your day with a visit to one of the local wineries for a tasting session. Enjoy sampling exquisite wines and perhaps pairing them with cheese. As night falls, relish in the ambience of the winery while watching the stars come out over the picturesque landscape.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $60-100 |
| 🛏️One-night mid-range hotel | $120-250 |
| 🚗Gas/fuel (per liter) | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning alpine scenery and diverse outdoor activities
- Relaxed, friendly town with good access to ski fields and trails
- Can be crowded during peak summer and ski season
- Prices can be higher than other regional towns in the off-peak periods
- "Kia ora" - Hello / Thank you
- "Kei te pēhea koe?" - How are you?
- "Aroha mai" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Tēnā koe" - Hello (to one person)
- "Nau mai" - Welcome
Places to Visit in Wanaka
Visit one of these nice places.
The solitary willow tree with the lake and mountains in the background, especially striking at dawn.
A relatively short hike that yields sweeping views of Wanaka, the lake, and the surrounding ranges.
Iconic high-altitude vantage point offering dramatic vistas of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
Rolling farmland, alpine scenery, and distant snowfields—great for expansive landscape shots.
Food in Wanaka
Wanaka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked lamb served with creamy kumara mash, a comforting alpine staple.
Must-Try!
Central Otago venison prepared in hearty sauces with seasonal vegetables.
Fresh, simply prepared fish highlighting the region's waterways.
A light dessert showcasing local berries after a day outdoors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small, vibrant market offering local produce, baked goods, coffee, and seasonal specialties.
Casual stalls along the lakefront during peak season with quick bites and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use a friendly 'Kia ora' as a greeting; politeness and a relaxed, respectful attitude go a long way.
Respect Leave No Trace principles; dispose of waste properly and keep the lakes and trails clean.
Drive on the left; give way to oncoming traffic where indicated and observe wildlife crossing areas.
Safety
Tipping in Wanaka
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up bills or 5-10% for good service is common in tourist areas.
Credit/debit cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets are widely accepted; cash is still used in some markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, dry conditions with long daylight hours; bring sun protection, water, and light layers for evenings.
Mild days with turning foliage; cooler mornings and evenings; great photography and hiking conditions.
Cold, clear days with regular snowfall on surrounding peaks; skiing and snow sports are popular.
Cool with meltwater and budding wildflowers; weather can be changeable with sudden showers.
Wanaka at Night
Hiking in Wanaka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A fantastic day hike through ancient beech forest ending at a glacier-fed waterfall—moderate to challenging.
Iconic high-alpine hike offering sweeping views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains; longer and more strenuous.
Scenic walk with alpine scenery and the option to cross to Motatapu area; suitable for most hikers.
Airports
How to reach Wanaka by plane.
Major regional airport about 60-70 minutes by road from Wanaka; frequent domestic flights and seasonal international connections.
Small regional airport servicing shorter domestic flights and scenic tours; convenient for speedier access from nearby towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A steady influx of seasonal staff supports the tourism-focused economy, especially in summer and winter.
Residents and visitors seeking a relaxed, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
Wanaka attracts travelers from around the world, contributing to a multilingual, multicultural vibe during peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Dominant winter sports with Cardrona and Treble Cone nearby.
Mountain bike trails and bike parks attract riders of all levels.
Serene lake activities and angling in nearby rivers and streams.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wanaka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many menus feature vegetarian options; ask for daily specials or custom dishes; many cafes offer tofu, legumes, and fresh vegetables.
Gluten-free bread and pasta options are commonly available; inform staff about cross-contamination in kitchens.
Many places can accommodate dairy-free diets with plant milks and dairy-free desserts.