Wanaka

New Zealand’s fourth-largest lake and the rugged wilderness of Tititea / Mount Aspiring National Park serve as the backdrop for this buzzing alpine village.

Wānaka blends small-town charm with big-mountain scenery. Nestled beside a pristine glacier-fed lake and surrounded by the Southern Alps, it’s a haven for outdoor lovers in every season. In summer, the lake comes alive with swimmers, kayakers, and paddleboarders. In winter, two top ski fields draw snow-seekers from near and far. With stylish cafés, scenic hikes, boutique shopping and award-winning wineries, Wānaka is both an adventure hub and a relaxing escape—beautiful, balanced, and undeniably inviting.

See and Do

The local favourite
Cardrona Alpine Resort is a favourite for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Thanks to its high elevation, it boasts some of the most reliable snow in the region. Families love the beginner-friendly slopes, terrain parks and childcare facilities, while experienced riders can explore off-piste terrain, cliff drops and chutes. The Chondola (a gondola-chairlift hybrid) offers an easy ride to panoramic views—perfect even for non-skiers wanting a taste of alpine life.

A scene of pure natural beauty
Drive the Haast Pass from Wānaka into Mount Aspiring National Park and you’ll discover the Blue Pools—a series of glacial-fed pools so clear and vibrant they almost seem unreal. Just north of Makarora, a short forest walk leads you across swing bridges and along the riverbank to these stunning turquoise waters. It’s a peaceful, photogenic spot that reflects the pristine beauty of the region—and a reminder of just how wild and untouched Wānaka’s backyard really is.

Adventures in nature
Wānaka River Journeys offers jet boat trips up the Matukituki River, where the scenery becomes more dramatic with every bend. Glide past farmland, braided riverbeds and towering mountains before disembarking to explore native forest and a hidden waterfall. Glacier views, including the spectacular Avalanche Glacier, add to the sense of awe. Whether it’s hiking, canyoning, skydiving or flying into remote valleys by plane, Wānaka delivers world-class adventure wrapped in breathtaking beauty.