Wanaka - Laid-back alpine town in the midst of it all
The cool younger sister to nearby Queenstown, Wanaka has a smaller, more local feel with much of the same appeal. This alpine village has a welcoming vibe and an easily walkable centre - great for a lakefront stroll to find your next meal.
Not quite as busy as Queenstown, you'll still find a buzz in the air whether it's mid-summer or ski season. Ski New Zealand’s top ski fields of Treble Cone, Cardrona, Snow Farm or try some heavenly heli-skiing around Wanaka.
Explore nearby Mount Aspiring National Park, famous for its glaciers, tramping and climbing. The lake provides both scenic splendour and an opportunity for paddle boarding, kayaking, or a dip.
at a glance
Best known for
relaxed vibes and pristine location
Did you know:
#thatwanakatree is NZ's most photographed tree!
Don't leave without
eating fish & chips on the lakefront
stories
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activities
events
Dance Out Loud Showcase 2018
When: Dec 14 to Dec 15, 07:00 PM to 08:30 PM
Where: 89 Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Lake Wanaka Centre, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Jac and the Beansprouts
When: Dec 19 to Dec 22, 07:00 PM to 08:30 PM
Where: 89 Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Lake Wanaka Centre, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
iHeartRadio Top Paddock Music Festival
When: Dec 31 to Jan 1, 03:00 PM to 02:00 AM
Where: 1 Capel Ave, Hawea, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Lake Hawea Hotel, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Tattletale Saints Duo Tour
When: Dec 14, 09:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Where: Level 1, 155 Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Gin and Raspberry Boutique Bar, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Skyline Traverse Mountain Run
When: Jan 20, 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Where: Sargood Drive, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Edgewater Hotel, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Crossing Sounds: Music with Blindfolds
When: Dec 29, 05:45 PM to 07:00 PM
Where: Lakeside Rd
Venue: Wanaka Scout Den, Wanaka, Otago
Wheels At Wanaka
When: Apr 20 to Apr 21, 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM
Where: Ballantyne Road
Venue: Three Parks, Wanaka, Otago
Wanaka Sunday Craft Market
When: Nov 25 to Feb 10, 10:00 AM to 03:00 PM
Where: Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Pembroke Park, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
The Ruby Swim
When: Jan 26, 07:00 AM to 01:00 PM
Where: Ruby Island, Lake Wanaka, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Ruby Island, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Legendary Divas
When: Feb 6, 07:30 PM to 09:15 PM
Where: 89 Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Lake Wanaka Centre, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Nearby Hostels
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YHA Wanaka
Lively, cosy, and comfortable with stunning views out to Lake Wanaka and the mountains, YHA Wanaka is an incredibly popular hostel year-round. Our relaxed, welcoming vibe and open plan living/dining area get rave reviews in the likes of Lonely Planet.
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YHA Queenstown Central
This hostel couldn’t be more aptly named – nestled between the Wakatipu lakefront and Shotover St it’s right in the rapidly beating heart of this famous little resort town of Queenstown. Everything is on your doorstep – cafes, bars, restaurants and the waterfront with all its activities.
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YHA Aoraki Mt Cook
This cosy, solar-powered alpine backpacker lodge is nestled among majestic mountains and natural beauty. Guests love our inviting log cabin feel and coming home to a warm fire in our comfortable lounge at the end of a day exploring.