The dramatic blue lakes and rugged mountain ranges of the Wanaka region form a spectacular backdrop to a superb range of outdoor adventures.
An inspiring place for relaxation in perfectly tranquil surroundings, the Wanaka region also offers an amazing range of adventure activities from horse-riding in rugged foothills to awe-inspiring scenic flights amongst soaring mountains. West of Wanaka, Mount Aspiring National Park, the nation’s third largest, is renowned for the diversity of its landscapes. From rugged forest to alpine meadows, Mount Aspiring offers an ever-changing canvas on which to paint your own chosen adventure. Those inclined toward a more laid-back vacation are also well catered for, with a range of excellent cafés and eateries on offer in the pretty lakeside town of Wanaka.
DESTINATION-NZ.COM HIGHLIGHTS
Pull on your hiking boots and climb Mount Roy – the hike takes three hours but you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of Mount Aspiring and Lake Wanaka. Cast a line in the blue waters of Lake Wanaka and absorb the tranquillity as you hope for a bite. Explore Stuart Landsborough’s Puzzling World – this one-of-a-kind attraction is a strange place of three-dimensional mazes and mind-altering puzzles.
NOTABLE CULTURE
Mount Aspiring is known as Tititea by Maori – a very apt and very beautiful name meaning ‘The Glistening Mountain’. At 3,033 metres tall, it’s the only peak over 3,000 metres outside Mount Cook National Park.
MOMENT IN HISTORY
Wanaka has long been a popular tourist destination. As early as 1881 a paddle steamer was launched to carry sightseers to the head of the lake.
THE ICONIC EXPERIENCE
Go hiking in stunning alpine scenery – incredibly varied and large, Mount Aspiring National Park offers a range of walking trails for all abilities. Many native plants and birds make the park their home, including kea, the world’s only alpine parrot.
Plan your trip with a detailed map of this region and peruse our suggested travel itinerary. Read More
Sights, activities and top picks to make planning easier. Read More
Wanaka Airport offers direct flights from Christchurch International Airport. Queenstown Airport, just 90 minutes from Wanaka, offers domestic flights and an international service from Australia.
By Road
Wanaka is 6 hours, 30 minutes from Christchurch and 1 hour, 30 minutes from Queenstown. Several coach companies provide regular bus services.
Unforgettable Events
Wanakafest
(September) – the town comes alive with street entertainment and revelry. Find out more at www.wanakafest.co.nz.
Wanaka Rodeo
(December/January) – strap on your spurs and experience the exhilaration of one of the South Island’s top rodeos. Find out more at www.wanakarodeo.co.nz.
