Best Places to Stay in Wanaka 🇳🇿: Compehensive Guide to The Best Areas

Updated on October 16, 2024
by Alex Miller

Wanaka, a picturesque town nestled on the shores of Lake Wanaka in New Zealand’s South Island, is a perfect place to stay for those seeking breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, and a tranquil getaway. With its stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps and proximity to attractions like Mount Aspiring National Park, Wanaka offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs, from luxurious lodges and apartments to cozy cottages and budget-friendly hostels.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels

Whether you’re planning a ski trip to the nearby Cardrona or Treble Cone ski fields, exploring the area’s numerous hiking and mountain bike trails, or simply soaking up the magnificent views of Lake Wanaka and the mountains, you’ll find the perfect place to stay in Wanaka. From the town center’s vibrant eateries and shops to the serene shores of nearby Lake Hawea, Wanaka’s diverse range of accommodations ensures that visitors can rest their heads in comfort and style while enjoying all that this beautiful region has to offer.

The Best Places to Stay: Quick Guide

  • 🏞️ For outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers: Wanaka Town
  • ⛷️ For ski enthusiasts and mountain adventurers: Cardrona
  • 🏡 For those seeking tranquility and a cozy retreat: Albert Town
  • 🚴‍♂️ For cycling fans and those who love scenic trails: Lake Hawea
  • 🍷 For wine aficionados and those who enjoy local flavors: Rippon
  • 🌅 For those who want stunning lake and mountain views: Shores of Lake Wanaka
  • 🌿 For eco-conscious travelers and nature lovers: Mount Aspiring National Park

1. Wanaka Town: Heart of Adventure in New Zealand 🏞️

🌄 Spectacular Scenery: Wanaka Town is nestled along the shores of Lake Wanaka, surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps. This picturesque setting offers breathtaking views and serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, making it a perfect base for exploring the region’s natural beauty.

🚴 Outdoor Activities: Known for its vibrant outdoor culture, Wanaka Town is a haven for adventure seekers. From hiking and biking trails to water sports on the lake, there are endless opportunities for exploration. The nearby Mount Aspiring National Park offers some of the best hiking and climbing in New Zealand.

🏡 Charming Atmosphere: The town itself boasts a charming atmosphere with a mix of cozy cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries. It’s a place where visitors can relax and enjoy the local culture after a day of adventure.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • Lake Wanaka: A stunning lake perfect for water activities and scenic walks.
  • Wanaka Tree: An iconic willow tree located in the lake, a must-see for photographers.
  • Mount Aspiring National Park: Offers incredible hiking and climbing opportunities.
  • Roys Peak: Provides panoramic views of Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Wanaka Town

  • Big Fig: Known for its healthy, fast-casual Mediterranean dishes.
  • Francesca’s Italian Kitchen: Offers delicious Italian cuisine.
  • Patagonia Chocolates: Famous for its handmade chocolates and ice cream.
  • Kai Whakapai Cafe & Bar: A local favorite for coffee and casual dining.

🚶‍♂️ Exploring Wanaka Town: The town’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. For those looking to venture further, rental bikes and cars are available, and local buses connect Wanaka to nearby areas.

🏨 Where to Stay in Wanaka Town

⭐ Best Hotels in Wanaka Town

  • Lakeside Apartments: Offering private balconies overlooking Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring National Park, these apartments feature an outdoor pool, hot tub, free Wi-Fi, and fully equipped kitchens. Located in the heart of Wanaka, they provide stunning lake and mountain views.
  • Clearbrook Motel & Serviced Apartments: Situated on the corner of Helwick and Upton Streets, this motel offers a range of self-contained accommodations. Guests can enjoy amenities like a hot tub, BBQ facilities, and a guest lounge with a fireplace. All rooms are heated and include access to shared bathroom facilities.
  • Bella Vista Motel Lake Wanaka: This simple motel offers polished studios and apartments, some with kitchenettes, plus free parking. It’s conveniently located just a short walk from Lake Wanaka and the town center.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Clearbrook Motel: Affordable motel offering self-contained units with kitchenettes and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a hot tub, BBQ area, and convenient location near the lake and town center.
  • Bella Vista Motel Lake Wanaka: Budget-friendly motel with studios and apartments, some featuring kitchenettes. Offers free parking and easy access to Lake Wanaka and downtown.
  • Wanaka's Private Escape: Cozy and affordable accommodations with a private bathroom and basic amenities. Located in a quiet residential area, just a short drive from the town center and lake.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Kauri House Apartment: Comfortable apartment accommodations suitable for budget-conscious travelers. Features a balcony and access to various outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and fishing.
  • YHA Wanaka: Popular hostel located just 150m from the center of Wanaka. Offers amenities like a shared kitchen, lounge, and outdoor seating area. Guests can enjoy activities such as cycling, billiards, and skiing.
  • WanaHaka - Lake Wanaka & Town at your door: Centrally located hostel just 200m from the town center and close to the lake. Offers guests access to a fitness center, tennis court, and golf course (within 3km). Ideal for budget travelers wanting to be close to all the action.

2. Cardrona: Ski Paradise and Mountain Retreat ⛷️

🏔️ World-Class Skiing: Cardrona is renowned for its excellent ski fields, including the Cardrona Alpine Resort, which offers a range of slopes for all skill levels. It’s a top destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts during the winter months.

🏞️ Year-Round Activities: Beyond skiing, Cardrona offers activities like mountain biking, hiking, and horse trekking. The scenic Cardrona Valley is a beautiful place to explore, with its rolling hills and alpine vistas.

🏡 Historic Charm: The area is steeped in history, with the iconic Cardrona Hotel providing a glimpse into the region’s gold mining past. It’s one of New Zealand’s oldest hotels and a popular spot for visitors.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • Cardrona Alpine Resort: A premier ski destination with diverse terrain.
  • Cardrona Hotel: A historic hotel and pub with a charming atmosphere.
  • Snow Farm: Offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails.
  • Bendigo Historic Reserve: Features remnants of the gold mining era.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Cardrona

  • Cardrona Hotel: Known for its hearty pub meals and cozy ambiance.
  • The Chop Shop Food Merchants: Offers creative and delicious dishes.
  • Cardrona Distillery: Provides tastings of locally made spirits.

🚗 Navigating Cardrona: A car is recommended for exploring Cardrona and its surroundings, as public transport is limited. The drive from Wanaka is scenic and takes about 20 minutes, offering beautiful views of the valley and mountains.

🏨 Where to Stay in Cardrona

⭐ Best Hotels in Cardrona

  • Cardrona Hotel: This iconic hotel features an on-site restaurant and bar. Guests can enjoy the picturesque gardens while sipping a drink on the patio.
  • Waiorau Homestead: Set on a tranquil rural estate, this property features free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub. Each room offers stylish country-style furnishings and garden or mountain views.
  • Fantail Corner: This cozy bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning and relax in the shared lounge area.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Modern Fully Fenced Stackbrae Holiday Home: This holiday home offers affordable accommodations for groups or families. It features a fully fenced yard, modern amenities, and a convenient location near local attractions.
  • Stackbrae Lodge: This lodge provides budget-friendly rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Guests can enjoy the communal kitchen and lounge areas, as well as the beautiful mountain views.
  • West Meadows of Wanaka: These self-contained apartments offer affordable accommodations with kitchenettes and private balconies. The property is located just a short drive from Cardrona.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Mountain View Backpackers: This hostel offers budget-friendly dorm rooms and private rooms. Guests can enjoy the shared kitchen, lounge, and outdoor areas, as well as activities like hiking and skiing nearby.
  • Beautiful 2 Story Unit near Oakridge Resort: This hostel-style accommodation offers affordable rooms in a two-story unit. Guests can enjoy the shared kitchen and living areas, as well as the convenient location near Oakridge Resort.
  • THE SHED, 4 bedroom holiday home, Wanaka: This spacious holiday home offers affordable accommodations for groups or families. It features four bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a convenient location near Cardrona.

3. Albert Town: Tranquil Riverside Escape 🏡

🌿 Peaceful Setting: Albert Town is a quiet, residential area located just a short drive from Wanaka. It offers a serene escape with its riverside setting and beautiful natural surroundings, perfect for those seeking tranquility.

🚶 Outdoor Recreation: The area is ideal for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and fishing. The Clutha River provides opportunities for kayaking and picnicking along its banks.

🏡 Community Feel: Albert Town has a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere with local cafes and parks. It’s a great place to experience the slower pace of life in the Wanaka region.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • Clutha River: Offers scenic walking and cycling trails.
  • Deans Bank Track: A popular mountain biking trail.
  • Albert Town Bridge: A historic bridge with beautiful views.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Albert Town

  • Pembroke Patisserie: Known for its delicious pastries and coffee.
  • Albert Town Fish Co.: Offers fresh fish and chips.
  • Double Black Cafe: A local favorite for breakfast and lunch.

🚗 Getting to Albert Town: Albert Town is just a 5-minute drive from Wanaka, making it easily accessible by car. It’s a convenient base for exploring the wider region while enjoying a peaceful retreat.

🏨 Where to Stay in Albert Town

⭐ Best Hotels in Albert Town

  • “The: This luxurious property offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Wanaka. Guests can enjoy the outdoor hot tub, spacious living areas, and fully equipped kitchen.
  • “The: This top-rated hotel features elegant rooms with panoramic views of the lake and mountains. Amenities include a hot tub, fully equipped kitchen, and spacious living areas.
  • “Rivers: Situated on the banks of the Clutha River, this property offers comfortable accommodations with river views. Guests can enjoy the peaceful setting and easy access to nearby hiking trails.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Albert Town Lodge: This affordable lodge offers basic rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Guests can enjoy the communal kitchen, lounge area, and convenient location near local attractions.
  • Wanaka Riverside Townhouse Retreat: These self-contained townhouses offer budget-friendly accommodations with kitchenettes and private balconies. The property is located just a short walk from the Clutha River.
  • Alps and Lake Retreat Wanaka: This affordable retreat offers comfortable rooms with mountain views. Guests can enjoy the shared lounge area, garden, and easy access to hiking and biking trails.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Stay At Ours - Alberttown: This friendly hostel offers budget-friendly dorm rooms and private rooms. Guests can enjoy the shared kitchen, lounge area, and outdoor spaces.
  • Riverside Lodge - Luxury Two Bedroom Townhouse: This upscale hostel offers luxurious two-bedroom townhouses with river views. Guests can enjoy the fully equipped kitchen, spacious living areas, and convenient location near local attractions.
  • Our Big Tiny House: This unique hostel offers accommodations in a charming tiny house. Guests can enjoy the cozy living spaces, kitchenette, and outdoor areas with mountain views.

4. Lake Hawea: Scenic Trails and Outdoor Adventure 🚴‍♂️

🌄 Stunning Scenery: Lake Hawea is known for its breathtaking landscapes, with crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain backdrops. It’s a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.

🚴 Cycling and Hiking: The area offers excellent trails for cycling and hiking, including the popular Hawea River Track. These trails provide a great way to explore the stunning surroundings.

🏞️ Water Activities: Lake Hawea is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The lake’s clear waters are inviting and refreshing.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • Lake Hawea Lookout: Offers panoramic views of the lake and mountains.
  • Hawea River Track: A scenic trail for walking and cycling.
  • Isthmus Peak Track: Provides challenging hikes with rewarding views.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Lake Hawea

  • Sailz Lake Hawea: Offers casual dining with lake views.
  • Hawea Store & Kitchen: Known for its hearty meals and friendly service.
  • The Lake Bar: A popular spot for drinks and pub fare.
Wanaka, Lake Hawea, Isthmus Peak Track
Wanaka, Lake Hawea, Isthmus Peak Track
Wanaka, Lake Hawea

🚗 Exploring Lake Hawea: A car is essential for exploring Lake Hawea and its surroundings, as public transport options are limited. The drive from Wanaka takes about 15 minutes and offers stunning views along the way.

🏨 Where to Stay in Lake Hawea

⭐ Best Hotels in Lake Hawea

  • Hawea Hotel: This lakeside hotel offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of Lake Hawea. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, bar, and easy access to nearby hiking and biking trails.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • The Camp - Lake Hawea: This affordable camping ground offers a range of accommodations, including cabins, powered sites, and tent sites. Guests can enjoy the beautiful lakeside setting and communal facilities.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Cross Hill Glamping: This unique hostel offers a glamping experience with stunning views of Lake Hawea. Guests can stay in cozy bell tents equipped with comfortable bedding and access to shared bathroom facilities.

5. Rippon: Wine and Views 🍷

🍇 Renowned Vineyard: Rippon is home to one of New Zealand’s most famous vineyards, known for its biodynamic wines and stunning location overlooking Lake Wanaka. Wine enthusiasts will enjoy tastings and tours at this picturesque estate.

🌅 Breathtaking Views: The vineyard offers some of the best views in the region, with its rolling vineyards set against the backdrop of the Southern Alps and Lake Wanaka. It’s a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.

🎨 Cultural Events: Rippon hosts various cultural events and concerts throughout the year, providing a unique blend of wine, music, and art in a beautiful setting.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • Rippon Vineyard: Offers wine tastings and stunning views.
  • Lake Wanaka: Visible from the vineyard, perfect for scenic walks.
  • Ruby Island: Accessible by boat, a lovely spot for a picnic.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat in Rippon

  • Rippon Hall: Offers wine tastings and light bites.
  • Edgewater Restaurant: Known for its fine dining and lake views.
  • Bistro Gentil: Offers French-inspired cuisine with a local twist.

🚗 Getting to Rippon: Rippon is located just a short drive from Wanaka, making it easily accessible by car. The vineyard is a popular stop on wine tours of the Central Otago region.

🏨 Where to Stay in Rippon

⭐ Best Hotels in Ripon

  • Altamont Lodge: Featuring a hot tub and BBQ facilities, Altamont Lodge is just 0.6 mi from Lake Wanaka. Guests can relax by the fireplace in the guest lounge or enjoy meals in the communal kitchen and dining area. All rooms are heated and include access to shared bathroom facilities.
  • Wanaka Lake Studio (New): This studio apartment offers stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. It features a fully equipped kitchen, private balcony, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Edgewater Hotel: Located on the shores of Lake Wanaka, Edgewater Hotel offers luxurious rooms with lake views, an on-site restaurant, and a day spa. Guests can enjoy various activities like hiking, skiing, and golfing nearby.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Wanaka Top 10 Holiday Park: This holiday park offers affordable accommodations ranging from cabins to powered sites for campervans and tents. Guests can enjoy the communal facilities, including a kitchen, laundry, and playground.
  • Club Wyndham Wanaka, Trademark Collection by Wyndham: These self-contained apartments offer comfortable accommodations with kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and balconies with mountain views. Guests can enjoy the on-site fitness center and easy access to nearby ski resorts.
  • Villa @23: This budget-friendly villa offers basic accommodations with a kitchenette and private bathroom. It’s located just a short drive from the town center and Lake Wanaka.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • MacAndrew Luxury Lodge: This upscale hostel offers luxurious dorm rooms and private rooms with mountain views. Guests can enjoy the shared lounge, kitchen, and outdoor areas.
  • Wanaka Homestead Lodge & Cottages: Located just 656 feet from Lake Wanaka, this property offers a choice of B&B accommodations or self-catering cottages. It features free WiFi, a guest laundry, drying room, ski storage, and a large outdoor hot tub.
  • Best On Bills: This budget-friendly hostel offers dorm rooms and private rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Guests can enjoy the communal kitchen, lounge area, and convenient location near Lake Wanaka.

6. Shores of Lake Wanaka: Lakeside Retreat 🌅

🏖️ Lakeside Beauty: The shores of Lake Wanaka offer stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and leisure. The pebble beaches are perfect for sunbathing and picnicking.

🚤 Water Activities: The lake is a hub for water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. It’s a great place to enjoy the clear waters and scenic surroundings.

🌿 Nature Walks: The area features several walking trails that offer beautiful views of the lake and mountains. These trails are suitable for all fitness levels and provide a great way to explore the natural beauty of the region.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • That Wanaka Tree: An iconic willow tree in the lake, perfect for photos.
  • Eely Point Recreation Reserve: Offers picnic areas and boat ramps.
  • Beacon Point Walk: A scenic trail along the lake.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat on the Shores of Lake Wanaka

  • The Landing: Offers casual dining with lake views.
  • Relishes Cafe: Known for its breakfast and brunch options.
  • The Trout Bar & Restaurant: Offers pub fare and local beers.

🚶‍♂️ Exploring the Shores: The shores of Lake Wanaka are easily accessible on foot or by bike from the town center. The area is well-connected with walking and cycling paths, making it easy to explore the beautiful surroundings.

🏨 Where to Stay in Shores of Lake Wanaka

⭐ Best Hotels in the Shores of Lake Wanaka

  • The Rest Nest: This cozy hotel offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of Lake Wanaka. Guests can enjoy the peaceful lakeside setting and easy access to nearby hiking trails.
  • Aspiring Apartment Wanaka: These self-contained apartments offer luxurious accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and private balconies overlooking Lake Wanaka. Guests can enjoy the convenient location just a short walk from the town center.
  • Mountain View Chalet: This lakefront chalet features stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy the spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchen, and private outdoor spaces.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Central Wanaka Villa: This affordable villa offers comfortable accommodations with a fully equipped kitchen and private bathroom. It’s located just a short walk from the shores of Lake Wanaka and the town center.
  • Diamond On Tenby: These budget-friendly apartments offer basic accommodations with kitchenettes and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the convenient location just a short walk from the lakefront.
  • Apartments on Helwick: These self-contained apartments offer affordable accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and easy access to the lakefront. Guests can enjoy the garden setting and convenient location near the town center.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Clearwater Court: This budget-friendly hostel offers dorm rooms and private rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Guests can enjoy the communal kitchen, lounge area, and convenient location just a short walk from the lakefront.
  • Central Wanaka Villa: In addition to affordable private rooms, this villa also offers budget-friendly dorm accommodations. Guests can enjoy the fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living spaces, and easy access to the lakefront.
  • Serenity Haven: Retreat with Panoramic Views: This unique hostel offers budget-friendly accommodations with stunning panoramic views of Lake Wanaka. Guests can enjoy the peaceful setting, shared kitchen and lounge areas, and easy access to nearby hiking trails.

7. Mount Aspiring National Park: Nature’s Playground 🌿

🌲 Natural Beauty: Mount Aspiring National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Area known for its stunning landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, and rivers. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

🥾 Hiking and Trekking: The park offers a range of hiking and trekking opportunities, from short walks to multi-day hikes. Popular trails include the Rob Roy Glacier Track and the Routeburn Track.

🦅 Wildlife and Conservation: The park is home to diverse wildlife, including native birds and unique plant species. It’s a great place to learn about conservation efforts and experience New Zealand’s natural heritage.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • Rob Roy Glacier: A spectacular glacier accessible via a scenic hike.
  • Aspiring Hut: Offers accommodation for hikers in the park.
  • Blue Pools: Known for their crystal-clear waters and scenic walks.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat Near Mount Aspiring National Park

  • Makarora Country Cafe: Offers hearty meals and snacks.
  • The Aspiring Hut: Provides basic meals for hikers.
  • Haast River Safari Cafe: Known for its coffee and light bites.

🚗 Exploring Mount Aspiring National Park: A car is essential for reaching Mount Aspiring National Park, as public transport options are limited. The park is about an hour’s drive from Wanaka, offering stunning views along the way.

🏨 Where to Stay in Mount Aspiring National Park

⭐ Best Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park

  • Tempest on Wanaka: This luxurious property offers stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy the outdoor hot tub, spacious living areas, and fully equipped kitchen.
  • Archway Motels & Chalets: Located close to Mount Aspiring National Park, this motel offers comfortable accommodations with kitchenettes and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the peaceful setting and easy access to nearby hiking trails.
  • Fairway Motel & Apartments: These self-contained apartments offer comfortable accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and private balconies. Guests can enjoy the convenient location near the national park entrance.

🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

  • Matukituki Lodge: This affordable lodge offers basic rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Guests can enjoy the stunning mountain views, communal kitchen, and easy access to nearby hiking trails.
  • Alpine Motel: These budget-friendly apartments offer basic accommodations with kitchenettes and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the convenient location near the national park and town center.
  • Private Retreat Central Wanaka 2 Bedroom: This affordable retreat offers comfortable accommodations with a fully equipped kitchen and private bathroom. It’s located just a short drive from the national park entrance.

🛏️ Best Hostels

  • Private Escape Central Wanaka 3 Bedroom: This budget-friendly hostel offers dorm rooms and private rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Guests can enjoy the communal kitchen, lounge area, and convenient location near the national park.
  • Alto on hedditch: This hostel offers affordable dorm accommodations with shared bathrooms. Guests can enjoy the stunning mountain views, communal kitchen, and easy access to nearby hiking trails.
  • Hedditch Hideaway: This cozy hostel offers budget-friendly dorm rooms with shared facilities. Guests can enjoy the peaceful setting, communal kitchen, and convenient location near the national park entrance.

Where to Stay in Wanaka

Wanaka, with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant outdoor culture, offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the mountains of Cardrona, tranquility in Albert Town, or the scenic beauty of Lake Hawea, each area provides its unique charm and attractions. From the bustling heart of Wanaka Town to the serene shores of Lake Wanaka, this region is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind in a stunning setting. With its array of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly hostels, Wanaka ensures a memorable stay for all visitors.

🧐 Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Wanaka?

The best time to visit Wanaka depends on your interests. For skiing and snowboarding, the winter months from June to August are ideal. For hiking, biking, and enjoying the lakes, the summer months from December to February offer warm weather and clear skies.

How do I get to Wanaka?

Wanaka is accessible by car, bus, or plane. The nearest airport is in Queenstown, about an hour’s drive away. Regular bus services connect Wanaka to Queenstown and other major cities in New Zealand.

What are the must-see attractions in Wanaka?

Some must-see attractions include Lake Wanaka, the Wanaka Tree, Mount Aspiring National Park, and Roys Peak. For a unique experience, visit the Rippon Vineyard for wine tasting with stunning views.

Is Wanaka family-friendly?

Yes, Wanaka is very family-friendly, offering a range of activities suitable for all ages. From gentle hikes and biking trails to water sports and family-friendly attractions like Puzzling World, there is plenty to keep families entertained.

What are some popular outdoor activities in Wanaka?

Popular outdoor activities in Wanaka include hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, and fishing. The region’s stunning natural landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for adventure and exploration.