Things to Do in Wānaka

Visit One of the Most Picturesque Lakes in the World

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Located just an hour’s drive away from the hustle and bustle of Queenstown, you’ll find Wānaka, an idyllic town best known for its laid-back lifestyle and picturesque landscapes. With its stunning lake, pristine mountain views, and endless natural wonders, you’re bound to find a range of incredible things to do in Wānaka that promise a getaway like no other.

Check out our vast assortment of Wānaka day tours, activities, and more below and start planning your dream South Island adventure today!

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Looking for even more things to do in Wānaka? Whether you’re up for a quick half-day trip or an exciting full-day adventure, we’ve got a range of unique tours and activities that will make your time here unforgettable. Take a look through our most popular Wānaka activities below and find your next experience online today!

Adventure

Cruise & Sailing

Day Trips & Excursions

Adrenaline

Walking & Biking Tours

Our Team’s Top Picks for Wānaka

If you’re looking for the best Wānaka travel guide, look no further! As an avid team of adventurers, we’re more than familiar with Aotearoa New Zealand’s South Island and know all the best things to do in Wānaka. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite experiences here so you can plan the adventure of a lifetime. Check out our top picks below and find the perfect experiences for your trip with Backpacker Deals today!

Adventure Tours:

Wānaka is a hub for adventure enthusiasts, offering a range of thrilling tours that showcase everything that makes this region so iconic. From guided kayaking trips on the pristine Lake Wānaka to exploring hidden valleys and alpine lakes, these adventure tours provide an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty and charm. Whether you're trekking through the snowy mountains or discovering secret waterfalls, each adventure promises unforgettable experiences and breathtaking views.

Walking and Biking Tours:

Wānaka boasts a network of walking and biking trails that cater to all ages and fitness levels. The Hawea River Track and the Millennium (Glendhu Bay) Track offer scenic routes along the water's edge, while the Rob Roy Glacier Track provides a more challenging hike with rewarding glacier views. Cyclists can hire an e-bike and tackle the Lake Dunstan Cycleway or enjoy a family-friendly ride along one of Wānaka and Hawea’s many picturesque trails.

Scenic Cruises:

Experience the beauty of Wānaka from the water with a scenic cruise along its serene lake. These tours offer a relaxing way to see Wānaka’s stunning alpine scenery, with options to simply cruise along the waterfront or venture further afield to explore the remote islands nearby. As you glide across the crystal-clear waters, you'll have the opportunity to see native wildlife, learn about the area's history, and capture stunning photos of the surrounding mountains.

Adrenaline Activities:

Wānaka is a true playground for adrenaline seekers, offering a variety of heart-pounding activities that cater to thrill enthusiasts. Skydiving over Lake Wānaka provides a bird's-eye view of the area’s breathtaking landscapes, while rock climbing beside thundering waterfalls promises an exhilarating adventure. Whatever you choose, these activities provide plenty of ways to get your adrenaline fix while visiting Wānaka.

Wine Tours:

Explore the flavours of Central Otago with a wine tour in Wānaka and discover world-class vineyards that boast delightful beverages and stunning views. These tours typically include visits to several boutique wineries, where you can sample Wānaka’s award-winning Pinot Noir as well as various other varietals. Sample delectable wines, enjoy gourmet food pairings, and learn all about the winemaking process as you taste your way through the region and soak up the beautiful vineyard vistas.

Top Bucket List Activities to Do in Wānaka in 2024

A green jet boat cruising along the crystal clear waters of Lake Wānaka. The pebbled floor of the lake can be seen under the clear water. There is a green embankment in the background covered in shrubbery, and the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps can be seen behind the embankment further away in the distance.

1. Lake Wānaka Jet Boat Tour

Feel the thrill of adventure wash over you as you speed across the waters of Lake Wānaka and down the Clutha River on this exhilarating jet boat ride.

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A photo of neat rows of green grapevines taken from atop a small hill on a vineyard. At the end of the rows, the vineyard meets a blue lake, surrounded by wild fields, that goes winding off into the mountains in the distance.

2. Boutique Wānaka Wine Tour

Spend a leisurely afternoon sampling the delightful flavours of Central Otago with a boutique wine tour through Wānaka’s best vineyards and cellar doors.

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A distant photo taken from the air of a person skydiving over Lake Wānaka and the Wānaka township. Their orange and white parachute has been pulled and they are gently floating downwards. The snowy Southern Alps can be seen past the lake far off in the distance.

3. Skydive over Lake Wānaka

Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with a tandem skydive over Lake Wānaka and witness the South Island’s most awe-inspiring landscapes from above.

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A row of small, wooden, beige and grey coloured heritage homes and shops along a walking path in Arrowtown. A neat row of grass separates the walking path from the road, and an old tree stands tall on the grass, shading the charming old buildings with its leaves. A hill covered in orange, yellow, and gold coloured foliage can be seen behind the buildings in the background.

4. Arrowtown and Wānaka Highlights Tour

Immerse yourself in Aotearoa New Zealand’s small-town charm and explore the rich history of Arrowtown and the scenic beauty of Wānaka on this half-day tour.

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A photo of a beautiful natural landscape in Wānaka. On the left hand side of the photo, a winding blue river cuts through the green hills and fields. On the right hand side, a gravel cycling path runs parallel to the river, with both the river and the path winding off into the distance.

5. Wānaka Easy Bike Tour

Cycle down well-maintained biking trails along the Hawea River and discover the beauty of Wānaka with a leisurely bike tour that the whole family can enjoy!

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Wānaka?

Wānaka is a year-round destination! For warm weather and vibrant outdoor activities, we’d definitely recommend visiting in the summer months (December to February). Alternatively, if you’re into skiing or snowboarding, the winter months (June to August) provide perfect snowy weather and incredible views of the surrounding Alps.

Can I swim in Lake Wānaka?

Absolutely! The lake is perfect for a refreshing swim, especially in the summer. Just find a spot, dive in, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and stunning views around you.

How do I get around Wānaka?

Wānaka is a walkable town, and many people enjoy exploring by foot, as there are several scenic trails to discover. However, renting a bike or hiring a car can help you explore scenic locations further afield, such as the small neighbouring town of Lake Hawea.

Is Wānaka a good holiday destination for families?

Yes! You’ll find a range of family-friendly things to do in Wānaka that promise incredible experiences for all ages. Cycle along picturesque biking trails, discover gorgeous flowers, delicious lavender-flavoured ice cream, and friendly farm animals at Wānaka Lavender Farm, or enjoy a weird and wonderful day out at Puzzling World.