Wanaka

Overview

Wanaka is a picturesque town located in the Otago region of New Zealands South Island. Known for its stunning landscapes, Wanaka is situated at the southern end of Lake Wanaka, surrounded by the Southern Alps. This destination offers a range of outdoor activities, making it a favorite spot for adventure enthusiasts. Hiking trails, such as those in Mount Aspiring National Park, provide opportunities for both beginners and experienced hikers. In winter, nearby ski fields like Treble Cone and Cardrona attract skiers and snowboarders from around the globe.

Beyond outdoor activities, Wanaka offers a charming town center with various cafes, restaurants, and shops. The town hosts events like the Warbirds Over Wanaka airshow, drawing visitors interested in aviation. For those seeking relaxation, the lakefront provides a peaceful setting for leisurely strolls. Wanakas combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring New Zealands South Island.

New Zealand

Destination Type Town

Currency New Zealand Dollar

Languages English

Best Time to Visit December to February

Recommended Duration 3-5 days

Elevation 300 meters

Popularity Score 8/10

Accommodation in Wanaka

From backpacker hostels to luxury resorts in Wanaka, browse our 2025 accommodation partners for your perfect stay. We've curated the best options across New Zealand to ensure your Wanaka experience starts with the right place to call home.

Find your Accommodation in Wanaka

Grab Your Bunk or Private Room with HostelWorld

Apps and Services to Check Out Before You Go

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Safety and Security

🥽 Overall Safety

9.0/10

👩‍🦰 Solo Female Safety

8.0/10

🌈 LGBTQ Safety

7.0/10

Travel Advisory

Exercise normal safety precautions

Drinkable Tap Water? 💧

Yes

Safety Info

Generally safe, low crime rate

Remember to get your travel insurance! Our recommended insurer is SafetyWing

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Wanaka Budget and Cost of Living

Cost of Living Level

$$$$$

Accommodation (Per Night)

Budget NZD 40-80

Mid-Range $100-$150

Luxury NZD 300-600

Eating Out

Budget Meal NZD 15-30

Mid-Range Meal $20-$40

Luxury Dining NZD 100-200

Activities

Budget Activities $10-$30

Mid-Range Activities $30-$60

Luxury Activities NZD 150-300

Money Saving Tips

Visit in shoulder seasons for lower prices.

Top Things to Do in Wanaka 2025

If you're searching for what to do in Wanaka during 2025 then look no further. Here are unique experiences and local events in Wanaka that are going on in 2025. These include cultural events, sports, music, festivals and much more. We also have the info on the attractions that showcase the best of New Zealand.

Tours & Activities

Upcoming Events

No upcoming events found for Wanaka

Attractions

Lake Wanaka

Natural Lake

Lake Wanaka is located in the Otago region of New Zealands South Island and is known for its stunning natural…

9.5/10

View Attraction

Lake Wanaka

Natural Lake

Lake Wanaka is located in the Otago region of New Zealands South Island and is known for its stunning natural beauty. The lake covers an area of about 192 square kilometers, making it one of the largest in the country. Surrounded by mountains, it offers a range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking. There are several walking tracks around the area, including the popular Roys Peak Track, which provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. For those interested in Lake Wanaka travel information, the town of Wanaka serves as a gateway to exploring this beautiful destination. The town provides various accommodations, dining options, and recreational facilities. It also hosts events throughout the year like the Wanaka A&P Show and Winter Games NZ. With its combination of natural beauty and visitor amenities, Lake Wanaka is a popular spot for tourists looking to experience New Zealands scenic landscapes.

9.5

Open: Daily 24 hours (Year-round)

Price:
Adult: Free
Child: Free
Student: Free
Senior: Free

Wanaka, Otago, New Zealand

https://horizonjumpers.com/oceania/newzealand-travel/wanaka/lake-wanaka/

Mount Aspiring National Park

National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a vast and picturesque protected area located near Wanaka, New Zealand. Known for its stunning…

9.5/10

View Attraction

Mount Aspiring National Park

National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a vast and picturesque protected area located near Wanaka, New Zealand. Known for its stunning alpine landscapes, the park covers over 3,500 square kilometers. It offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountaineering, and kayaking. The park is home to diverse wildlife and plant species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors should check Mount Aspiring National Park opening hours before planning their trip, as some areas may have restricted access during certain times of the year. The park features several well-marked trails suitable for different skill levels. Popular tracks include the Routeburn Track and the Rob Roy Glacier Track. With its breathtaking scenery and numerous recreational opportunities, it is an ideal destination for outdoor adventure.

9.5

Open: Daily 24 hours (Year-round)

Price:
Adult: Free
Child: Free
Student: Free
Senior: Free

Wanaka-Mount Aspiring Road, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand

https://horizonjumpers.com/oceania/newzealand-travel/wanaka/mount-aspiring-national-park/

Roys Peak

Hiking Trail

Roys Peak in Wanaka, New Zealand, is a popular hiking destination known for its breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka and…

9.2/10

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Roys Peak

Hiking Trail

Roys Peak in Wanaka, New Zealand, is a popular hiking destination known for its breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding Southern Alps. The hike to the summit is approximately 16 kilometers round-trip, with an elevation gain of about 1,300 meters. Because it can be challenging, it is essential to wear appropriate footwear and carry sufficient water and snacks. The track typically takes about 5 to 7 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level. The Roys Peak opening hours are from dawn to dusk, making it important to start your hike early in the day to ensure you have enough time to return before dark. Parking is available at the base of the track but can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Its advisable to check weather conditions before heading out, as they can change rapidly in this alpine region. Finally, remember that there are no facilities along the trail, so plan accordingly and pack out everything you bring.

9.2

Open: Daily 24 hours (Year-round)

Price:
Adult: Free
Child: Free
Student: Free
Senior: Free

Mount Aspiring Road, Wanaka, New Zealand

https://horizonjumpers.com/oceania/newzealand-travel/wanaka/roys-peak/

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