Things to Do in Wanaka
Wanaka welcomes all comers: adrenaline addicts, foot-sore travellers, lovers of luxury. Take time to explore this exquisite piece of real New Zealand and revitalise your spirit.
Here, in the heart of the Southern Lakes, ringed by golden hills, snowy peaks, ancient forests, crystal-clear lakes and rivers, you will find the time and space to find yourself.
Sip wine at the local vineyard on the lake-shore; spend a day or three fishing one of the great river valleys; up the ante with a little adventure; canyoning, climbing, river surfing, sky-diving; ski your heart out all winter long; or simply idle the days away swimming, cafe-cruising and relaxing.
Enjoy the company of friends over a game of golf, test your mental mettle at the puzzle centre or trek on horse-back high up into the golden hills where prospectors searched for gold and, years before, Maori wandered in search of pounamu (greenstone).
Walking and cycling tracks weave around the lakes and ascend the nearby hills to give spectacular views of Mt Aspiring/Tititea in the distance. Tiny planes offer a bird’s-eye view of this magnificent wilderness area.
Discover a little of Central Otago’s fascinating history: on a raft on the swirling waters of the mighty Clutha River; through a visit to Wanaka’s world renowned Fighter Pilot’s and Transport Museums; or by sharing an ale with the locals at the historic Cardrona Hotel.
World-class Ski Resorts
The world-class ski resorts of Cardrona, Treble Cone and Snow Farm offer quality terrain to suit absolute beginners and hard-core skiers alike. Or try heli-skiing where you will fly to the best slopes within a 3000 sq km range of pristine peaks. Snow Farm is New Zealand’s only Nordic and cross-country ski area, and Snow Park is New Zealand’s largest terrain park – a freestyle mecca for snowboarders and skiers.
Click here to learn more about New Zealand’s best skiing and snowboarding.
Wanaka Ski Fields Rental Equipment
There are several companies in Wanaka and Queenstown that we can arrange all of your ski rental requirements. These rental companies will deliver your ski gear direct to the Moorings ready for your first day on the slopes.
Get organised early and book your ski rentals to be delivered and custom fit in the comfort of your accommodation with Snopro Ski Rental Delivery Click this link to see prices and book now. snopro.co.nz/moorings
Explore Landscapes, Nature & Wildlife
Explore our mountains, glaciers, lakes, rivers, wildlife, and World Heritage Area
Striking land forms, soaring mountains, and crystal clear lakes, the natural beauty of Wanaka is an unforgettable experience.
Mt Aspiring National Park is a very unique place by world standards, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Area. It is made up of soaring mountain peaks, 100’s of spectacular glaciers, lush beech forest, braided rivers, alpine meadows and is home to a diverse variety of native New Zealand flora and fauna.
With a night the sky so full of stars Wanaka is just as stunning when the sun goes down.
Cafes & Restaurants
Award winning restaurants, cafes and artisan produce
We’re a small town for big appetites. Here you’ll find world-class restaurants and cafes, wineries, breweries—even an artisan distillery. Plenty of ways to fuel up after a hard day’s adventure—or to help those long, lazy afternoons go by.
Sample some of New Zealand’s finest wines on an exclusive guided wine tour. Or feast on our region’s best at the Wanaka’s Farmers’ Market, with locally-made chocolates, cakes, breads, pastries and more to please your palate…
Walking & Hiking
Walking around Wanaka is one of the best ways to see the beauty of the area
Mt Aspiring National Park will tempt the serious hikers and climbers, and there are plenty of highly experienced guides to help you summit a peak.
But Wanaka’s for everyone, so if a stroll is more your style, there’s a great selection of short tracks close to town, that offer something suitable for the whole family.
