Range Rover Sport (Diesel)
Smooth highway touring with excellent range and comfort
Ideal for scenic drives and long days on the road: comfort, space, and confident handling.
Wanaka Travel Guide
Wanaka is one of the South Island’s most scenic alpine towns, sitting on the shores of Lake Wanaka with views of the Southern Alps. It’s quieter than Queenstown but still packed with hiking, skiing, and lake activities, and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
- Christchurch pickup
- Premium fleet
- Local knowledge
About Wanaka
Wanaka is one of the South Island’s most scenic alpine towns, sitting on the shores of Lake Wanaka with views of the Southern Alps. It’s quieter than Queenstown but still packed with hiking, skiing, and lake activities, and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
Lake views, iconic #ThatWanakaTree, Roys Peak and other hikes, and easy access to Mount Aspiring National Park.
Suggested stay: 2–3 days
Why visit
- ✓Lake Wānaka waterfront
- ✓#ThatWanakaTree
- ✓Roys Peak Track
- ✓Mount Aspiring National Park
- ✓Treble Cone and Cardrona skiing
- ✓Puzzling World
Top things to do
Walk the lakefront and see #ThatWanakaTree
Hike Roys Peak (seasonal conditions apply; check track status)
Explore Mount Aspiring National Park viewpoints
Visit local cafés and the town centre
Kayak or boat on Lake Wanaka
Ski Treble Cone or Cardrona in winter
Visit Puzzling World
Bike the lake trail
Driving & access
Road conditions
Check NZTA before you go. Alpine and coastal routes can be affected by weather; carry chains in winter where required.
Best time
Year-round. Summer for lake activities and hiking; winter for skiing at Treble Cone or Cardrona.
Best vehicles for Wanaka
Comfortable, capable cars for South Island touring. All our fleet is suitable for sealed highways; these are our top picks for this region.
Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S
High-performance SUV perfect for scenic touring and alpine routes
Ideal for scenic drives and long days on the road: comfort, space, and confident handling.
Tesla Model 3 Performance
Instant acceleration and quiet premium feel for modern travel
Ideal for scenic drives and long days on the road: comfort, space, and confident handling.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Wānaka worth visiting?
- Yes. Wānaka is a South Island favourite for lake scenery, hikes, and an easy-going alpine town vibe.
- How many days should you spend in Wānaka?
- Most travellers spend 2–3 days to enjoy the lakefront, a hike, and a few scenic drives.
- Wanaka vs Queenstown?
- Wanaka is smaller and quieter; Queenstown has more nightlife and adventure activities. Many visitors do both, they’re about an hour apart via Crown Range or Cromwell.
- Is Roys Peak open year-round?
- The track can be closed for lambing (Oct–Nov) and in poor weather. Check DOC and conditions before you go.
- What is #ThatWanakaTree?
- A lone willow tree in the lake, one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots. Easy to reach from the lakefront.
- Do I need to book accommodation in advance?
- Recommended in peak season (summer and winter). Book ahead for popular dates.
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Destinations, scenic drives, trip planning, and our premium fleet.
Plan your trip
Itineraries and planning guides.
Vehicles & booking
Premium car hire from Christchurch.
Christchurch pickup · Airport-friendly
Ready to explore Wanaka?
Check availability, browse our fleet, or ask us which car we recommend for your trip.