Wanaka is Queenstown's laid-back cousin - just an hour's drive away but worlds apart in atmosphere. Set on the shores of Lake Wanaka beneath the Southern Alps, this small lakeside town has become one of New Zealand's most beloved destinations, attracting travellers who prefer mountain hikes over bungy jumps and lakeside coffee over nightclub queues. The town's icon is "That Wanaka Tree" - a lone willow growing from the lake, photographed millions of times on social media. But Wanaka's real draw is the quality of its hiking (Roy's Peak offers one of NZ's most spectacular viewpoints), skiing (Treble Cone and Cardrona), and the sheer beauty of a pristine alpine lake surrounded by mountains.
Getting There
Wanaka is 68km (1 hour) from Queenstown via the Crown Range Road (New Zealand's highest sealed road - stunning views). Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is the nearest airport. InterCity buses run daily from Queenstown and Christchurch. A car is recommended for exploring the area.
Top Experiences
- Roy's Peak: The iconic Wanaka hike - a steep 16km (5–6 hours return) track climbing 1,250m to the 1,578m summit. The zigzag trail above the treeline offers increasingly jaw-dropping views of Lake Wanaka, Glendhu Bay, and the surrounding peaks. The "Instagram ledge" viewpoint about 45 minutes below the summit is one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand. Start early (before 8am) to beat crowds and heat.
- Isthmus Peak: A longer alternative to Roy's Peak (16km, 6–7 hours return) with equally spectacular views and far fewer people. Overlooks both Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea.
- Rob Roy Glacier Track: A 10km (3–4 hours return) walk into the Matukituki Valley to a dramatic hanging glacier - waterfalls, avalanches (heard from a safe distance), and alpine meadows. One of the most rewarding short hikes in the South Island.
That Wanaka Tree & Lakefront
- That Wanaka Tree: The famous lone willow tree growing from the lake, with the mountains behind. Most photographed at sunrise when reflections are perfect. It's a short walk from the town centre along the lakefront.
- Lake Wanaka: The lake is stunningly clear - swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking are popular in summer. Glendhu Bay is a beautiful swimming spot.
- Rippon Vineyard: One of the most spectacularly located vineyards in the world - lakefront, mountain backdrop. The Pinot Noir is exceptional. Cellar door tastings available.
- Wanaka Lavender Farm: Visit in December–January when the lavender is in full bloom - gorgeous for photos.
Skiing & Winter
- Treble Cone: The South Island's largest ski field (550 hectares), with stunning lake views from the slopes. Challenging terrain and uncrowded. 25 minutes from Wanaka ($149 lift pass).
- Cardrona: A family-friendly ski field between Wanaka and Queenstown, with excellent beginner and intermediate terrain, terrain parks, and the famous Cardrona Hotel (NZ's most photographed pub). 35 minutes from Wanaka ($149 lift pass).
- Snow Farm: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the Pisa Range - NZ's only commercial Nordic ski area.
Other Activities
- Puzzling World: A quirky and fun attraction with tilting houses, illusion rooms, and the Great Maze. Great for families and rainy days ($22). - Wanaka Beerworks & Rhyme & Reason: Local craft breweries with taprooms - relaxed après-hike spots. - Skydiving: Tandem skydiving over Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps ($349) - stunning scenery. - Jet boating: Clutha River jet boat rides (from $99).
Where to Eat
- Kika: Mediterranean-inspired, wood-fired cuisine - Wanaka's standout restaurant ($$). - Francesca's Italian Kitchen: Excellent pasta and Italian dishes in a warm setting. - Big Fig: Superb brunch and lunch with seasonal menus. - Federal Diner: Great burgers, cabinets food, and coffee - always busy.
Where to Stay
- Edgewater Hotel (lakefront, mountain views - from $200/night) - Wanaka Homestead Lodge & Cottages (charming, garden setting - from $180/night) - YHA Wanaka Purple Cow (excellent backpacker, central - from $35/dorm) - Wanaka TOP 10 (holiday park, lakefront - from $50/cabin)
Practical Tips
- Roy's Peak is closed for lambing from 1 October to 10 November. Check DOC for seasonal closures. - The Crown Range Road can have ice in winter - carry chains. - Wanaka is a perfect 2-day stop - one day for a big hike, one day for the lake and town. - Book accommodation in advance for winter (ski season) and summer (December–February).
AUBIS Tip
: Wanaka is the perfect complement to Queenstown - hike, ski, and unwind. Use AUBIS to plan your Rob Roy Glacier walk, book Rippon wine tasting, and coordinate with your Queenstown activities for a seamless Southern Lakes itinerary.