Wanka is a hot spot not only for Kiwis on their holidays but for travellers too! To ensure you hit all the hot spots, we’ve created an insider’s guide to Wanaka. With our guide, you can make sure to experience the best activities and places to eat and stay to plan an unforgettable trip.
Located just a 1-hour drive from Queenstown, Wanaka boasts stunning beauty, surrounded by the Southern Alps and lakes.
How to get to Wanaka
You can reach Wanaka by flying or driving. From Queenstown, you can pick up your _mode rental and take on the 1-hour drive over the Crown Range. You can also take an alternative route through Cromwell on State Highway 6. The road over the Crowne Range offers stunning scenery over Queenstown and Gibbston Valley. However, do be cautious, the road is steep and has lots of sharp corners. If you don’t feel comfortable driving on this type of road the alternative route is a great option.
Another option is flying. Christchurch offers direct flight with Sounds Air, a small 9-passenger plane, which is only a short 45-minute journey. Or fly into Queenstown, pick up your Mode Rental and take on the journey through the mountains.
Activities in Wanaka
Wanaka is a tourist destination with so much to offer! To help you make the most of your trip we’ve refined the list and compiled our top activities for you to do in Wanaka.
#thatwanakatree: You must visit the most photographed tree in New Zealand, which sits alone in Lake Wanaka. Many people see it as a symbol of hope and whether it’s sunrise or a cloudy day the Wanaka tree looks enchanting no matter the weather conditions!
Roy’s Peak: Another Instagram hotspot, Roy’s Peak offers beautiful 360-degree views of the Southern Alps and Wanaka. Located just outside of town, this 16km return hike is reasonably steep, so we recommend having an intermediate fitness level as it climbs to 1,500m. But the views are absolutely worth it. Sunrise is the best time to see it, so pack a torch and get up early to catch the glow, you will not regret it!
Puzzling World: Keep the whole family entertained for hours at Puzzling World. Perfect for a rainy day, Wanaka’s world of weirdness is famous for its mind-bending illusions, challenging puzzles, and intriguing maze! Puzzling World offers an immersive experience that sparks curiosity and wonder.
Lavender Farm: The Lavender Farm is a great place to visit for a couple of hours. There are 20 acres of lavender rows and farm animals, and it is as gorgeous as it sounds. It is best to view it from December to March when the Lavender will be in full bloom. For the kids, there is a petting zoo home to donkeys, sheep, and alpacas.Don’t forget to try some of the delicious lavender ice cream and honey.
Paddle Wanaka: Hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the clear and calm waters of Lake Wanaka. Paddle Wanaka is located on the lakefront, in a van. There is a selection of guided trips you can book, or if you prefer you can hire a kayak or paddleboard for your own adventure.There’s different boats and paddle boards available to suit all levels of experience. We recommend the best views of the Wanaka tree and Ruby Island are enjoyed from paddling by in a kayak or paddleboard.
Mount Iron: Looking for a more kid-friendly hike instead of Roy’s Peak? Mount Iron is a great option, offering great views from the top without the steep climb. About 1.5-2 hours return, we recommend you bring a picnic to the top and enjoy the 360 views of the Southern Alps and Lake Wanaka.
Visit a Winery: Central Otago is known for its great wine and Wanaka is home to some of the best. Rippon Vineyard overlooks the shores of Lake Wanaka and out to the Southern Alps. Book a tasting appointment and try a range of wines from Pinot Noir to a Gewurztraminer. Maude Wines is another favourite, located closer to central Wanaka, you can do a tasting and enjoy a bite to eat too. We recommend making a booking in advance for both!
Cardrona Historic Village
Located 20 minutes outside of Wanaka is an old village Cardrona. In the 1800s, it was the centre of the region's old gold mining industry. The Cardrona Hotel, which was built in 1863, is a perfect place to stop for a good old pub meal.
When in Cardrona, a must-visit is the Cardrona Distillery, located across from the base of the Cardrona Ski field. Offering everything from gin and single malt vodka to whisky and various liqueurs. We recommend booking a tour of the Distillery to understand the disitilling process and operations of this family-owned business. Enjoy a tasting and the stunning views!
If you are heading over to Wanaka in the winter, The Cardrona Ski Resort is a great place to spend the day. Cardrona Ski Resort welcomes the most skiers in New Zealand and has a great range of beginner, intermediate and advanced-level tracks. Late June to early July, is usually Cardrona’s busiest time as it is Australia and New Zealand’s school holiday period. You can hire skis or snowboards from local rental shops in Wanaka or at the resort up the mountain. If you’re planning on going skiing snow chains for your car are essential, so make sure you book your snow chains for your tyres with your rental vehicle.
Where to Eat
Finding a good spot to eat in Wanaka is no issue at all! You will be spoilt for choice.
Big Fig's food is made slow but served fast! It’s a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike! Another great option is Curbside Bagel, where you can get your coffee and bagel fix in one place! For a great coffee and breakfast try Scroggin or Urban Grind.
The Stoaker Room, arc and the Bistro Gentil are great dining options! Indian, Mexican and Korean dining places are also available, plus there is a food truck area on Brownston Street for perfect quick eats and takeaways.
Wanaka being a small town, has a big love for craft breweries. Check out b.effect brewery, at b.social (located next to the brewery) you can try a tasting paddle of b.effect best beers while trying some of their great food options. Rhyme and Reason is another great brewery to visit, with local live music, stop by and try a pint or two!
Accommodation
Because Wanaka is a holiday hotspot there is a huge range of accommodation options. If you want a luxurious option Lakeside Apartment, Lime Tree Lodge and Club Wyndham Wanaka are great choices. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, Archway Motels Chalets and Hampshire Holiday Park will provide you with everything you need. Additionally, there are several backpackers and holiday parks, which are great alternatives for budget-friendly options.
With Wanaka being a popular holiday destination for Kiwis, finding a holiday house to rent for a large group of people is no issue. You can find them on Bookabach, Air BnB and HolidayHomes. Make sure you book ahead especially if you are visiting during the busy seasons.
Ready to plan your trip to Wanaka?
Wanaka is truly a special place with breathtaking scenery. Our comprehensive guide unlocks the best of Wanaka, revealing top sights, activities, places to stay and eat for every traveler. Whether you're into skiing, hiking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Wanaka has it all. With its cosy cafes and welcoming locals, this vibrant town is an essential stop for every explorer.
Wondering how to include Wanaka in your travel plans? Check out our favourite itineraries, such as the 7-day Christchurch to Queenstown, the 4-5 day Queenstown road trip, the 14-day Auckland to Queenstown, and the 7-day Queenstown road trip. Let us help you create the perfect trip to discover the wonders of Wanaka!
