Wanaka was a delightful surprise.
A charming town with breathtaking landscapes, picturesque mountains, and serene lakes surrounding the area, it is a sight to behold. And the locals are super welcoming and friendly like they’ve known you forever.
My visit to Wanaka was an unforgettable experience that I’ll cherish forever.
What is Wanaka known for?
My husband and I were amazed by the beauty of Wanaka, a charming town located in the heart of the Otago region on New Zealand’s South Island. The town has so much to offer and is an ideal holiday destination with all the necessary amenities.
Wanaka is a well-known ski and summer resort town that attracts tourists from all over the world. During our visit in December, the town was bustling with visitors.
Wanaka is situated at the southern end of Lake Wanaka, and its clear turquoise water reflects the snow-capped mountains, creating a breathtaking view. You can enjoy various outdoor activities, such as kayaking and fishing in the Clutha River, which begins in Wanaka.
Additionally, you can explore Mount Aspiring National Park, the starting point for visiting the beautiful blue pools. This place is an absolute must-see; it’s breathtakingly beautiful. The majestic Southern Alps surround the park and offer unspoiled wilderness.
Epics Activities to do in Wanaka
Wanaka offers a wide range of activities catering to both winter and summer, making it a lively town throughout the year.
My visit in December lasted for three nights, and although we couldn’t experience everything, I’m happy to share the ones we did and recommend other activities to enjoy.
See and take a picture of #ThatWanakaTree
So, there’s this little willow tree in New Zealand that is super famous for taking pictures. People go there early to get the perfect shot during sunrise or sunset. It’s a great chance to show off your photography skills to your friends on Instagram, FB, or any other social media you use. No matter if it’s raining, sunny, or snowing, you can’t take a bad picture of #ThatWanakaTree.
Visit Cardrona
Cardrona is a charming town located just 20 minutes south of Wanaka. It is well known for its cool historic hotel and the quirky Bra Fence. If you’re visiting during winter, then don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit Cardrona Alpine Resort – the biggest alpine resort in New Zealand! They offer slopes for all levels of skiers, from beginners to professionals.
However, regardless of the time of year, make sure to visit the historic hotel – it’s a delightful place to grab a bite to eat and take some photos of the town.
kayak or paddleboard
Experience the beauty of Wanaka Lake this summer by kayaking or paddleboarding at your own pace with Paddle Wanaka.
The crystal clear water and stunning mountain views in every direction will inspire you to embrace a sense of freedom and explore the great outdoors.
Hike Roy’s Peak Wanaka
If you’re into hiking, you gotta check out Roy’s Peak. It’s got one of the most famous views in Otago, and when you get there, you’ll see why. It’s a round trip of five to six hours (16 km – 10 miles), but the views are breathtaking, so it’s totally worth it.
Blue Pools Track
Escape to a serene oasis among towering forests. Clear pools flow into the Makarora River, creating a tranquil wonderland. It’s the perfect short walk to clear your mind and feel renewed.
Trails are well-maintained and offer breathtaking views of lush greenery and crystal-clear waters.
This biodiverse area is home to unique flora and fauna—a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Lavender Farm
I absolutely love the stunning lavender fields in Wanaka! They’re great for taking photos, and walking through the fields is a cool experience. You can even interact with the farm animals, play games in the garden, and treat yourself to some totally delicious lavender ice cream!
The admission fee is reasonable, ranging from NZ $5 to NZ $ 10 for adults and NZ $2 to NZ $ 5 for kids, depending on the season.
Any day is a good day in New Zealand
– mysuitcasejourneys.com
So, How was Wanaka?
Wanaka is undeniably one of the most beautiful destinations on New Zealand’s South Island. The locals are incredibly friendly, and the town has all the amenities you could require, including multiple grocery stores and other shopping options. Whether you visit during summer or winter, there is no shortage of good restaurants and a diverse range of activities to choose from. It’s no wonder why Wanaka has become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors alike.