Wanaka Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Wanaka, New Zealand with our comprehensive travel guide! Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Wanaka, and explore the wonderful attractions and natural beauty of the town.


Introduction to Wanaka

Wanaka is a picturesque town located in the Queenstown-Lakes district of the South Island of New Zealand. It is a popular tourist destination that offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. With its stunning natural beauty, crystal clear lakes, and majestic mountains, Wanaka is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Wanaka

Here are some of the best places to visit in Wanaka:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Transport and Toy Museum
  • Warbirds and Wheels
  • New Zealand Fighter Pilots Museum
  • Wanaka Transport Museum

Natural Attractions of Wanaka: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Wanaka
  • Roys Peak Track
  • Mount Iron Track
  • The Outlet Track
  • Wanaka Lavender Farm

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wanaka

With its stunning natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes, Wanaka is a paradise for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes to check out:

  • Glendhu Bay Loop Track
  • Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain Track
  • Waterfall Creek Track
  • Motatapu Track
  • Hikuwai Loop Track

Best Things to Do in Wanaka: Activities and Tours

Wanaka offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to everyone’s interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Wanaka:

  • Skydiving
  • Jet Boating
  • Parasailing
  • Kayaking
  • Fishing

Week-Long Itinerary for Wanaka

If you’re planning to spend a week in Wanaka, here’s an itinerary that you can follow:

Day 1 Arrive in Wanaka and explore the town
Day 2 Hike the Roys Peak Track and enjoy the views
Day 3 Explore the museums and historical places in Wanaka
Day 4 Take a scenic flight over the Southern Alps
Day 5 Go skiing or snowboarding at Cardrona Alpine Resort
Day 6 Tour Lake Wanaka and visit the Wanaka Lavender Farm
Day 7 Go skydiving or bungee jumping in Queenstown

Food and Drink Scene of Wanaka

Wanaka’s food and drink scene is a mix of local and international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Venison
  • Baked goods
  • New Zealand seafood
  • Soups and stews

Local Beverages

  • Central Otago Pinot Noir
  • Speights Beer
  • Central Otago craft gin

Where to Stay in Wanaka: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wanaka offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses and budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Wanaka:

  • Edgewater Hotel
  • Te Wanaka Lodge
  • YHA Wanaka
  • The Moorings

What to Buy in Wanaka: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Wanaka is known for its locally made products that make a great souvenir. Here are some of the things you should consider buying in Wanaka:

  • Lavender and honey products
  • Handcrafted wooden items
  • Handmade jewelry
  • New Zealand wool products

Local Culture and Customs of Wanaka

Wanaka is a welcoming town with a rich cultural heritage. The town has a unique blend of indigenous Maori, European, and Asian cultures, which is reflected in its festivals and events. The local customs and traditions are centered around the natural environment and the town’s connection to it.

Best Time to Visit Wanaka

Wanaka is a year-round destination with something to offer in every season. However, the best time to visit Wanaka is during the summer months (December to February), when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wanaka

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Wanaka:

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Engage in outdoor activities

Don’t:

  • Litter
  • Ignore safety warnings
  • Destroy wildlife and vegetation

Safety and Health

Safety in Wanaka

Wanaka is a safe town for visitors and locals alike. However, it’s always advisable to take precautions, especially when engaging in outdoor activities. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Always carry a first aid kit
  • Wear appropriate clothing and footwear
  • Check weather conditions before heading out

Health in Wanaka

Wanaka has a well-equipped medical center that provides general medical services to visitors. However, it’s always advisable to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and accidents.

Getting to Wanaka: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options that you can use to get to Wanaka:

Airports Near Wanaka

  • Queenstown Airport (65 km from Wanaka)

Bus Stations Near Wanaka

  • Wanaka Bus Station

Other Options

  • Rental cars
  • Taxis

How to Get Around in Wanaka

Wanaka is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. However, if you need to travel a longer distance, there are plenty of transportation options available, including rental cars, taxis, and local buses.

Where to Go Next from Wanaka: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore the surrounding areas, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to check out:

  • Queenstown
  • Franz Josef Glacier
  • Milford Sound

Conclusion

Wanaka is a small town with a big personality. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and plethora of activities and attractions, Wanaka is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand. We hope that this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Wanaka and discover all that this charming town has to offer.

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