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 and chips on the lakefront
stories
Top 4 Romantic Hostel Getaways
We know what you’re thinking – hostels don’t exactly scream romance, right? Boy do we have some news for you!
13 Slopes to Ski in New Zealand
Love skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing or any and all fun on and off the piste? Check out our great snow hostels located near New Zealand's best...
12 Crazy Adrenaline Activities To Try In New Zealand
While Queenstown gets all the glory for being New Zealand’s adrenaline capital, we know a few more hotspots to suit your mood and adrenaline...
How To Visit Queenstown on a Budget
Waking up to a view of the spectacular lakefront, eating fancy cheeses, drinking local wine and experiencing the thrill of the adventure capital...
DOC Short Walks
Experience some of New Zealand's highlights in easy-to-manage, bite-sized pieces.
Te Araroa Trail Hostels
The Te Araroa trail is New Zealand's newest long distance tramping route, from Cape Reinga in the north to Bluff in the south. We've got hostels to...
Top 8 Mountain Biking Towns in New Zealand
Whether you're an avid downhill mountain biker or trail rider, our 35+ hostels have you covered when it comes to hanging up your helmet at the end...
Nearby Hostels
view more
YHA Wanaka
YHA Wanaka's central location boasts views of the lake and mountains. Cosy and sociable, this is the ideal backpacker hostel for discovering all of Wanaka's activities and adventures.
view more
YHA Queenstown Lakefront
YHA Queenstown Lakefront offers lakeview accommodation for families, groups and backpackers. The modern hostel is a short stroll from the CBD with a large kitchen and social areas.
view more
YHA Aoraki Mt Cook
YHA Aoraki Mt Cook offers log cabin-style accommodation in Aoraki Mt Cook village. Surrounded by the monumental views of the Southern Alps the hostel welcomes families and backpackers.