Wanaka

Quieter, smaller and with more of a relaxed and chilled out feel than Queenstown, Wanaka is one of our favourite spots on the South Island.

Nestled in the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park between some of the most beautiful mountain ranges of the Southern Alps, the Wanaka region of New Zealand is popular for it’s incredible scenery and outstanding natural beauty, as well as being a great base for some unforgettable outdoor activities and experiences.

Just a 50 minute drive from neighbouring Queesntown, many travellers drive out to Wanaka for a day trip, though we think there’s plenty here to justify at least one overnight stay!

The township of Wanaka is set at the southern end of Lake Wanaka and is perfect for those wanting both outdoor adventure and a chance to relax and take it easy for a few days. There are a great range of small hotels and cosy bed & breakfasts to come home to at the end of the day and some excellent restaurants, shops and cafes too.

Adventure lovers flock to Wanaka during the winter months for its fantastic skiing and snowboarding at nearby Treble Cone, or Cardrona but it’s also a great place to visit in the summer, when tramping (the Kiwi word for hiking) fishing, climbing, canyoning and skydiving are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Aside from adventure sports or walking tracks and trails, you’ll find a great mix of cafes, restaurants and shops to browse in the town, as well as many spots to sit back, relax and take in your surroundings.

Bamboozle your brain at the brilliant Puzzling World, take a tour of the vineyards, or cruise out across Lake Wanaka with Eco Wanaka Adventure Tours to learn more about the native wildlife, flora and fauna that flourishes there.