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
Working as One - Sustainable Business Summit
When: Oct 23, 09:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Where: 89 Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Lake Wanaka Centre, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Working as One - Hospitality Workshop
When: Oct 23, 12:00 PM to 03:00 PM
Where: 89 Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Lake Wanaka Centre, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
This Is Why - Our Path to Carbon Zero
When: Oct 26, 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Where: 89 Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Lake Wanaka Centre, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Fashion Revolution - Wanaka
When: Oct 25, 07:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Where: 89 Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Lake Wanaka Centre, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Building Better - Series of Tiny Talks
When: Oct 24, 06:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Where: 36 Morris Road, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Wanaka Lavender Farm, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Sustainable Tourism Workshop - Wanaka
When: Oct 24, 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM
Where: 89 Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Lake Wanaka Centre, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
What is Sustainable Tourism?
When: Oct 28, 03:30 PM to 05:00 PM
Where: 89 Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Lake Wanaka Centre, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Investing in Our Future
When: Oct 28, 01:00 PM to 03:00 PM
Where: 89 Ardmore St, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Lake Wanaka Centre, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Wanaka Medieval Festival
When: Nov 3, 11:00 AM to 03:00 PM
Where: Ardmore Street, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: Wanaka Showgrounds, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Classical Jazz Quartet at Rippon
When: Oct 20, 07:30 PM to 09:15 PM
Where: 246 Mt Aspiring Road, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes
Venue: The Rippon Hall, 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.