Things to Do in Wanaka New Zealand
In summer, Wanaka is all about water sports, fishing, and beaches. As the snow falls in winter, the town becomes a base for skiers and snowboarders. After dark, the bars and restaurants are the place to share the day’s stories.
Things to Do in Wanaka New Zealand: Lake Wanaka offers a choice between the thrill of snow-clad mountains and the allure of clear waters that invite you to shed your inhibitions and take a dip in the icy blue abyss. Despite its name, Lake Wanaka is not just home to New Zealand’s fourth largest inland lake, but also to Mount Aspiring, which towers at an impressive height of 3,027 meters. The mountain is nestled within the country’s largest national parks, making the Lake Wanaka region a winter sports destination that is truly a gem.
For downhill skiers, the slopes of Cardrona and Treble Cone offer the best in classic skiing experiences. Alternatively, if climbing doesn’t appeal to you, you can try heli-skiing on the slopes of Harris Mountain. Nordic skiing is also available at the snow farm, so there’s no shortage of options. The Lake Wanaka region in New Zealand has Australasia’s largest skiing area, and the winters are sunny and crisp during the day, with sub-zero temperatures at night.
On the plains, Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawae offer a different kind of adventure. The depths of these lakes have been shaped over centuries by glacial action, and they offer exciting activities for those who are looking for a change of pace. If you can’t get enough of mountain biking and scraped knees, you can glide majestically over the hills and lakes. You can even choose to hike and carve out your trail. But one thing you won’t want to miss is the opportunity to sail or jetboard over one of the largest bodies of water around. Though the gold rush is long gone, the treasure trove of Lake Wanaka still beckons, with endless land and water adventures to be had.
Experience the Wanaka Region
- Mount Aspiring National Park – Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area,
- Dramatic alpine landscape of rainforest, glaciers, and waterfalls…
- Lake Wanaka & Lake Hawea,
- Unique museums in Wanaka
- Mountain biking – over 750 kilometers of MTB tracks & trails
- Skiing and snowboarding in winter
You´ll 
these great things to see & do…
these great things to see & do…- Hike Mount Aspiring National Park & spend a night (or several) under the Southern stars,
- Half-day walks Rob Roy Glacier Track – one of New Zealand’s,
- Visit the Stuart Landsborough’s Puzzling World
Things to Do in Wanaka New Zealand
All South Island Regions
Christchurch – Canterbury Dunedin & Otago Fiordland Kaikoura & Hanmer Springs Marlborough Nelson Tasman Southland Stewart Island Mount Cook & Mackenzie Queenstown New Zealand Wanaka West CoastFind Your Perfect Activity
Goldfields Experience: Relive New Zealand’s Gold Rush Heritage
Goldfields Mining Centre, Kawarau Gorge, Central Otago Active & Adventure Nature
1 hour
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Step back in time with the Goldfields Experience, an interactive tour that delves into the fascinating history of New Zealand’s gold rush era. Located in the heart of the scenic Kawarau Gorge, this tour offers hands-on activities and historical exploration, making it an unforgettable adventure for all ages. Tour Overview Location: Goldfields Mining Centre, Kawarau
Wanaka Nature Encounter: Discover the Beauty of Wanaka’s Wilderness
Wanaka lakeside Active & Adventure Off-road Driving
8 hours
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of Wanaka with the Wanaka Nature Encounter. This guided experience combines exploration, education, and tranquility, offering an unforgettable journey through one of New Zealand’s most stunning natural regions. Tour Overview Duration: 8 hours Location: Lake Wanaka and surrounding wilderness Activity Level: Easy to moderate (suitable for
Wild Hills Safari: Explore Untamed Beauty in New Zealand’s Backcountry
West Wanaka Nature Wildlife & Beaches Off-road Driving
4 hours
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Embark on the Wild Hills Safari and discover the rugged beauty of New Zealand’s rolling hills, untouched landscapes, and thriving wildlife. This immersive tour combines thrilling off-road adventure with serene moments in nature, making it an unforgettable experience for all types of explorers. Tour Overview Duration: 4 hours Location: Remote hill country regions Activity Level:
U-FLY Lake Wanaka Scenic Trial Flight: Soar Over Stunning Landscapes
Wanaka Airport, Lake Wanaka region Active & Adventure Scenic Flights
20 minutes
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Take to the skies with the U-FLY Lake Wanaka Scenic Trial Flight and experience the thrill of flying a plane under expert guidance. This 20-minute introductory flight combines stunning aerial views of Lake Wanaka and its surrounding landscapes with the unforgettable experience of taking the controls of a light aircraft. Tour Overview Duration: 20 minutes
Milford Sound Overfly: A Breathtaking Aerial Adventure
Wanaka Airport Active & Adventure Scenic Flights
1.5 hours
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Take to the skies and witness the unparalleled beauty of New Zealand’s Milford Sound with this awe-inspiring aerial adventure. The Milford Sound Overfly offers a unique perspective of the majestic fjords, towering peaks, and cascading waterfalls, making it a must-do experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Tour Overview Location: Wanaka Airport Duration: 1.5 hours
Taste of Wanaka: A Culinary and Scenic Delight
Central Wanaka Food & Wine Nature
2 hours
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Discover the best of Wanaka with the Taste of Wanaka tour, a perfect blend of culinary delights and breathtaking scenery. This immersive experience is designed for food enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a journey through Wanaka’s vibrant flavors, stunning landscapes, and rich local culture. Tour Overview Location: Wanaka, Central Otago, New Zealand Duration: 2 hours
Skydive Wanaka: Experience the Ultimate Adventure
Wanaka Active & Adventure
Flexible
Price:Included in your tour package
Soar above the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand with Skydive Wanaka, the ultimate adventure for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Feel the adrenaline rush as you free fall from the sky, taking in unparalleled views of Wanaka’s pristine lakes, snow-capped mountains, and lush valleys. Experience Overview Location: Wanaka, Central Otago, New Zealand Duration: Flexible Jump
Wanaka Highlights Safari
Wanaka Active & Adventure Off-road Driving
Flexible
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Come with us for an insight into Wanaka’s “must see” highlights. Included is a visit to a 30000 acre sheep cattle and deer farm, exclusive hill-top views over Lake Wanaka and beyond to snow-capped mountains. Enjoy refreshments then a stroll in an alpine meadow. This journey offers Wanaka’s best scenic locations and an unique insight
Dart River Wilderness Safari
45 Mull Street, Glenorchy, New Zealand Active & Adventure Boat Cruises & Water Activities
Flexible
Price:Included In Your Tour Package
Experience the Wild: The Ultimate Dart River Safari New Zealand If you want to discover the true heart of the Southern Alps, the Dart River Safari New Zealand offers a world-class journey into Mount Aspiring National Park. This diverse adventure combines high-speed thrills with serene exploration, taking you deep into a “World Heritage” wilderness that
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