Wanaka is easily one of our favourite places in New Zealand - in fact we regularly fantasise about moving there! It’s a gorgeous little town with plenty of cafes and restaurants, yet it doesn’t take long to get out into the wilds. The whole town is surrounded by absolutely jaw-dropping scenery, so you don’t have to be into hiking to experience some seriously incredible views.
Whatever you enjoy doing, Wanaka has something for you; from epic wild swimming spots, to amazing hikes, a hot tub under the stars, great wineries and breweries, and even a classic cinema where you can sit in an old Morris Minor!
Here are all the best things to do in Wanaka and the surrounds, to help you plan the perfect trip.
-
1: Admire the icon that is “that Wanaka Tree”
2: Soak under the stars
3: Wine taste with a world class view
4: Catch a sunset from Beacon Point
5: Catch a sunrise from Roy’s Peak
6: Discover the secret turquoise waterfall
7: Enjoy a picnic at Lake Hawea
8: Relax at the local hidden gorge
9: Soothe your senses at the picturesque Lavender Farm
10: Indulge in a drink or two at the gorgeous village of Cardona
11: Climb Wanaka’s easiest peak
12: Catch a movie from an old Morris Minor
13: Take a dip at Lake Wanaka
14: Test your nerve in the glacial waters of the Blue Pools
15: Marvel at the sensational views along the Isthmus Peak Track
16: Go for a tasting at a local brewery
17: Take a stroll to the pretty Diamond Lake
18: Indulge in the amazing food truck scene
19: Get up close to a glacier
20: See the river surfers on the Hawea River
20 Fun things to do in Wanaka
1. Admire the icon that is ‘that Wanaka tree’
Does anyone come to Wanaka and not pay a visit to this unique little tree? We’ve heard people say it’s too much of a cliche to take photos of ‘that Wanaka tree’, but honestly we completely disagree.
Yes it’s popular, but it’s popular for a reason. It’s absolutely beautiful, especially if you come during the soft light of sunrise or sunset (our photos are sunset).
You might have heard that the tree has been vandalised, which is sadly true, but luckily it is only missing a few branches and still very much worth seeing.
The quickest way to reach the tree is to park at the car park that’s labelled as the “Lake Wanaka Hike/Bike TracK” on Google Maps, just off Mount Aspiring Road - you can find the exact spot here. From here, it’s just a two minute walk, keeping the lake on your right side. It can be a very busy spot, so come at sunrise if you prefer a little serenity.
2. Soak under the stars
Is there any better way to end the day than under the starry night sky in your own private hot tub? If there is, we haven’t found it yet!
The wood-fired tub at Land Escape is smack bang in the middle of a field surrounded by rolling hills and distant snow-capped mountains. It’s completely isolated for maximum privacy and filled with alpine water from their own spring.
It’s a sublime experience and if you rent the tub for sunset you can stay for as long as you like after dark, making it far and away the best value hot tub experience we’ve had in New Zealand.
We soaked for a good four hours, but were told the record is currently six! It’s a very relaxed affair as the site is being developed over time, so it’s BYO towels and wine!
Ask for the tub that was used in the Pure New Zealand advert, that was the one we had and it was fantastic!
3. Wine taste with a world class view
We love a good wine tasting, but we love it even more if it comes with a view, and I’m not sure the one at Rippon Vineyard could be bettered.
You look out over row upon row of vines, rolling green hills and of course the stunning Lake Wanaka and surrounding Southern Alps. I only wish the tastings were held outside!
When it comes to the cellar door experience, it’s a guided tasting of six different wines and it’s quite conversational, so those with a real interest in wine will get a lot out of it. At time of writing the tastings are free of charge and must be booked in advance, which you can do here.
4. Catch a sunset from Beacon Point
There are some amazing places to watch the sunset in Wanaka which require a bit of investment, Beacon Point isn’t one of them.
You can drive right up to this sensational spot and then sit on the beach and watch as the sun slowly drops behind the mountain tops. If you’re lucky the sky will light up and create beautiful colour in the water too.
It tends to be a quieter part of the lake, so you will probably only share it with a handful of others.
To get here, drive to the car park on the northern end of Beacon Point Road (if you’re coming from Wanaka, keep driving away from the town and you will find it). You can find the exact spot on Google Maps by clicking here.
5. Catch a sunrise from Roys Peak
Catching a sunrise from Roys Peak is an experience you’ll never forget. It does require a lot of effort as it’s a steep 8km hike (each way), but never has a slog uphill been so rewarding. The view really is every bit as good as the photos, in fact it’s better.
The classic pictures are taken from the lookout, rather than the summit, so you can knock 1.5km off the walk if you only want to see the iconic viewpoint.
From the little jutting out knoll, you look out over Lake Wanaka and the spectacular Mount Aspiring and snowy Southern Alps. It’s sensational.
It’s also worth continuing to the summit for additional views of mountains that you can’t see from the viewpoint (although the view at the lookout is the best of the whole trail).
We were so lucky to get this spot to ourselves, but it can get very crowded, so if that worries you, you might find our guide on Roys Peak vs Isthmus Peak helpful.
6. Discover the secret turquoise waterfall
This gorgeous hidden waterfall is a little drive from Wanaka, located along the stunning Haast Pass. You’ll drive right by it if coming from Franz Josef, but it’s very much worth the one hour drive from Wanaka if not.
The spectacular waterfall is located in a towering chasm, a phenomenal sight which is made even more special by the turquoise water colour.
Although the walk is very short at 1.1km return, you need the right conditions and must be comfortable with a bit of scrambling and walking in water as there is no trail.
All the details on how to find the waterfall and how to visit safely are in this post.
7. Enjoy a picnic at the gorgeous Lake Hawea
Lake Hawea is yet another of the South Island’s breathtaking lakes, and on a clear day seems almost impossibly blue.
There are plenty of places to admire it from, but when it comes to the perfect picnic spot, or place to take a dip, then you can’t go past the picnic area at the start of the Johns Creek Track near Hawea Station.
It’s such a beautiful part of the lake and it takes just a minute to reach from the car park. There is one picnic bench with a bit of shade and a few trees, but otherwise it is very exposed, so you’ll want to have swimmers with you if it’s a hot day.
The last 3km of the road to the picnic spot are unsealed, but it’s in good condition and can be accessed with any car.
8. Relax at the local hidden gorge
Arriving at Motatapu Gorge feels like you’ve been let into a well kept secret. It’s wonderfully secluded and such a pretty spot that you can’t believe it’s in Wanaka and no one really talks about it.
The gorge itself is tall and narrow and looks like the perfect swimming spot, but alas it’s not due to strong currents.
Instead we sat on the gorge walls and paddled for a while before taking a dip in the little section of water by the sandy beach, which is sheltered from the current.
It’s cold and refreshing and though you can’t swim far as the space isn’t big enough, there’s more than enough room to laze around in the water.
The walk to get there is just a few minutes long and it’s all downhill on the way, along a well maintained trail.
The last 6km of the road to the car park is gravel, but it’s well maintained and you don’t need a car with clearance. You park at the start of the Motatapu River Track.
9. Soothe your senses at the picturesque Lavender Farm
The minute you set foot in the lavender farm, take a deep breath and you’ll instantly feel yourself relax. The fragrance is divine.
The big lavender fields are not in bloom year round, so you’ll need to come between December and February if you want to see that, but you do get one type of lavender which is dotted around the place that blooms earlier. You also get an array of other beautiful flowers in spring time.
As well as the lavender fields, there are lots of farm animals, bee hives, a few lawn games and a charming cafe. The cafe terrace is one of the prettiest in Wanaka and they have a variety of lavender based treats you can try.
10. Indulge in a drink or two at the gorgeous village of Cardrona
Cardrona is best known as a ski resort, but it’s still a great place to visit when the snow has melted. Popping into the historic Cardona Hotel is a must do, it’s atmospheric on the outside and that doesn’t stop when you head inside.
It’s perfect in the cooler months with large chesterfields and a roaring fire, but also has a lovely beer garden for warmer days.
Next head to the Cardrona Distillery for a tour, a tasting, or simply grab a cocktail and head to the patio with wonderful mountain views.
As you head into the village you’ll also pass the famous ‘Bradrona’, a long fence covered top to bottom in bras, which is used to raise money for the Breast Cancer Foundation.
11. Climb Wanaka’s easiest peak
If you want some great views but don’t want to tackle one of the harder trails, then head to Mount Iron, which is located right in town!
Whilst it’s still an uphill walk, it only takes around 30 minutes to climb to the top and the path is very straightforward. Your reward is 360o views of Lake Wanaka and the spectacular Southern Alps.
The walk is short enough that it makes for an easy win at sunrise or sunset, and both are a wonderful time to be up there. We opted for sunset as we prefer not to get up at the crack of dawn if we can help it and happily the view is just as good at sunset.
You can read more details on what to expect from the track in our Mount Iron guide.
12. Catch a movie from an old Morris Minor
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend an evening or rainy afternoon, then head to Cinema Paradiso. This old school movie theatre has so much charm and it’s somewhere we look forward to visiting every time we are in Wanaka.
The screens all have sofas so you can really stretch out and relax, that is unless you opt for a seat in the old school Morris Minor, which has to win the prize for the most unique seating option!
As well as the best seats, they also still have intervals where you can buy hot cookies straight from the oven, and you can’t ask for more than that!
Tickets cost less than a hard seat at our local multiplex, if only all cinemas were like this one!
13. Take a dip in Lake Wanaka
It’s pretty much mandatory when visiting Wanaka to get out on the lake in some capacity. There are lots of different water activities including kayaking, paddle boarding and scenic cruises, but we opted to simply go for a swim.
The water is surprisingly shallow for a long way out (at least from nearby the Wanaka Rotary Playground where I swam) so it’s also great for kids who don’t want to be out of their depth.
The water is pretty cold, but not to the same degree as the glacial lakes, and that was in spring time, in summer it might warm up a little more.
The main beach has a pontoon which you often see people jumping off and always has a nice summer vibe on sunny days.
14. Test your nerve in the glacial waters of the Blue Pools
The Blue Pools are one of the most mesmerising places I have ever been. The water colour simply has to be seen to be believed. It’s out of this world and no photo will ever do it justice.
The first time we visited I fully intended to swim, but in the end I couldn’t face the icy water and always regretted it.
The second time I knew I would give it a go, despite the fact we visited in spring when the air temperature was still very cool!
The glacial water is freezing year round, but taking a dip here really makes you feel alive. When I got out I was definitely on a natural high! There is quite a strong current near the gorge, but it sends you back towards the stony beach so it’s not really an issue.
The walk to reach the pool is just 3km return and very easy, so it’s a really popular spot. All our tips for avoiding the crowds, the best spots for photography, and when the water is bluest are in this guide.
15. Marvel at the sensational views along the Isthmus Peak Track
Yes it’s another steep walk but I promise it’s worth it. It’s also a great alternative if you want some epic views but can’t fact the idea of crowds on Roys Peak.
The views along the Isthmus Peak Track are magnificent and you’ll get to see both Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea.
We headed up for sunset and witnessed the most incredible cloud inversion, making it the most memorable sunset of our whole trip.
The hike is similar in distance to Roys Peak at 16km return, but it’s definitely half a day very well spent. All our insider tips for the trail are in this guide.
16. Go for a tasting at the local brewery
Wanaka has a number of craft breweries and all have a good reputation, but someone told us that b.effect was the best so we had to check it out.
I have to say that the ginger beer was genuinely the best I’ve ever tasted and Joe highly rated the IPA too. If you want to try a few different varieties you can order a paddle of four different beers for $25.
The venue isn’t trendy like some of the others we’ve been to in NZ, but it’s super relaxed - think long tables and Red Bull TV on in the background.
They had some outdoor tables too, which i think would be lovely in the warmer months.
17. Take a stroll to the pretty Diamond Lake
This is one Wanaka viewpoint that you don’t need to work to get to, well not by New Zealand standards anyway.
It’s just a 1.4km walk (each way), some of which is uphill but nothing too strenuous. We happened to visit on a very wet and miserable day, but the beauty of Diamond Lake shone through the gloom.
If you are up for a little more climbing you can continue for a further kilometre to Lake Wanaka Lookout along the Rocky Mountain Track.
This is yet another wonderful view that’s well worth seeing if you have the energy.
18. Indulge in the amazing food truck scene
Some of the best food in Wanaka is served up from the teeny tiny kitchens onboard one of the many food trucks.
We tried the coffee and bagel van (Little Black Coffee) which was excellent, as well as the crepe van (Charlie Brown) which was also fabulous.
However, we missed the one I was most excited to try, Burrito Craft, which we saved for our last night only to find it was closed for a party! It’s gets rave reviews so it’s definitely worth checking out.
They all have little tables and chairs or benches you can perch on to eat, but not much in the way of shelter from the rain, so save them for a dry day.
Most of the vans are found on Brownston Street, but there are a few, like Charlie Brown, which are in other spots around the town.
19. Get up close to a glacier
One of the easier walks close to Wanaka, the Rob Roy Glacier Track is no less sensational and one of our favourite day walks in the country.
It’s a whirlwind of mountain views, giant waterfalls, gorgeous forest and finishes up with a glacier view to remember.
All up with a few little side trails we walked for 13km and there is a fair bit of uphill involved, but nothing on the scale of Roys Peak or Isthmus Peak.
It’s a much more moderate hike that doesn’t compromise on wow factor.
You can read more in our Rob Roy Glacier Trail guide.
20. Check out the river surfers on the Hawea Whitewater Park
The colour of the water alone is reason enough to go for a stroll along the Hawea River - it’s absolutely mesmerising and literally stopped us in our tracks as we drove over the bridge. Deciding it definitely warranted a closer look, we discovered that as well as the picturesque walkway, it’s also home to a free whitewater park.
You can watch the intrepid surfers, kayakers and bodyboarders ride the Hawea Wave, which makes for a fun if slightly nail biting experience and we weren’t even in the water!
On that note, you can join in if you have the equipment with you, but you do need experience as the grade 3 rapids can be potentially hazardous.
There’s a list of safety regulations at the site that you need to comply with, including that you shouldn’t go in alone. If you have the right experience it looked like a real thrill!
Where to stay in Wanaka
Distinction Wanaka Alpine Resort
We stayed at the Distinction on our most recent visit. The apartments have fully equipped kitchens which include an oven, and lots of space in the living room and bedroom.
They aren’t flashy and could do with a few more soft furnishings, but we loved the space, kitchen and washing machine. There’s also a shared jacuzzi and sauna which we made use of on a nightly basis!
You can check out the reviews and prices on:
Getting to Wanaka
Wanaka is located in Otago, a one hour drive from Queenstown, 3 hours 20 from Dunedin and 5 hours from Christchurch. The nearest airport is in Queenstown.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, that we will earn a small commission if you click through and decide to make a purchase. This helps towards the costs of running our website. Thanks for your support.
