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.
Touring in a Tesla? Our EV road trip charging guide covers realistic stops for this corridor.
Winter or alpine legs? A Range Rover Sport (or V8 if you want the noise) is often the lower-stress choice than an EV when passes ice up.
Best vehicle for this route
Comfortable, capable cars for South Island touring. All our fleet is suitable for sealed highways; these are our top picks for this region.
Range Rover Sport (Diesel)
Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S
Tesla Model 3 Performance
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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