If you find yourself in New Zealand’s South Island, you must visit the resort town of Wanaka. It is a popular ski and summer destination located in the Otago region. It straddles the southern end of Lake Wanaka and the start of the Clutha River and is the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park.

Wanaka’s economy is propped up by the many outdoor activities that it offers to tourists throughout the year. Whether you are looking for an adrenaline rush or seeking a quiet getaway, Wanaka has it. Book your luxury Wanaka accommodation now and partake in any of the must-do activities in this underrated New Zealand destination.

Enjoy the View

If you are a big fan of landscape and nature, you are in for a treat. Wanaka is laden with stunning landforms, majestic lakes, towering mountains, and a diverse variety of flora and fauna.

You can take a leisure walk among lavender fields and have a glance of the local animals. For wine aficionados, the Wanaka is a great option. It even offers an authentic Maori welcome along with the wine tour.

While you are at it, take a snapshot of the lonesome willow tree at the heart of Lake Wanaka, the most photographed tree in New Zealand.

Extreme Adventure

If a peaceful and quiet vacation is not your scene, Wanaka’s numerous adventure activities offer a welcome change of pace.

First on the list is Wildwire Wanaka, offering the highest waterfall climbing route in the world. You could also jump, climb, or swim in the deep canyons of Wanaka and Haast.

Adrenaline junkies could also appreciate the view from above while strapped to a beautiful stranger with the Wanaka paragliding and skydiving.

Once you have had your fill, you could relax and recharge at your luxury Wanaka accommodation.

Walking and Hiking Trails

Wanaka is home to two of the most popular day walk trails in New Zealand – the Roys Peaks Track and Mt. Iron Track.

The Roys Peak track offers a long and steady climb that will be rewarded with stunning views of Lake Wanaka, Lake Hawea, and Mount Aspiring. It is a 16-kilometre return journey of zigzagging routes through tussock grasslands and takes five to six hours to finish.

The Mt. Iron Track is a bit shorter: a 4.5 kilometres uphill route that can be completed in 1.5 hours. Still, its glacier-carved rocky knoll offers an equally rewarding experience with a panoramic view of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea and Mt. Aspiring National Park.

Whichever trail you pick, the perfect way to bookend a day of hiking is with a relaxing bath in your luxury Wanaka accommodation.

Water Activities

If doing fun things on land or up in the air is not enough, you can sate your thirst for adventure with Wanaka’s epic water activities.

You can explore the Clutha River with top-rated jet boat tours or cruise the mighty rivers of Wilkin and Makarora. There are several jet boat tour companies in the area, each one offering a great experience at an affordable rate.

For a change of pace, try stand-up paddleboarding at the lake or kayaking at the river. SUP boards and guided tours are available for hire.

If you want a mixed experience, tandem parasailing over Lake Wanaka is a great option. Fishing with seasoned professionals is also a fun activity for the whole family.