Wanaka
Wanaka is the quieter lake town an hour over the Crown Range from Queenstown, with the same mountain access and a slower feel. Roys Peak is the best-known day hike in the country, and Mount Aspiring National Park starts at the edge of town. It has become busy in summer but remains calmer than its neighbour.
How long to stay
November to April for hiking; July to September for skiing at Treble Cone.
Typical daily budget
No budget published for this place yet
Best time to go
No seasonal guidance published for Wanaka yet
Is Wanaka right for your trip?
Based on what this guide covers, not a score. This is what Wanaka is known for.
Great for
- Not enough published detail yet
Less of a focus
- History & culture
- Food
- Nightlife
- Nature
- Family
Build your Wanaka trip
Top things to do
Rob Roy Glacier track
Free entry · VerifiedWanaka
A three-hour return valley walk in Mount Aspiring National Park to a hanging glacier and waterfalls.
Roys Peak
Free entry · VerifiedWanaka
A relentless 1,200 m climb to a ridge above Lake Wanaka, with a much-photographed viewpoint partway up.
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Popular activities
Lake Wanaka kayak
Paddle from the town beach along the lakeshore.
Mount Aspiring valley walk
Rob Roy glacier track through beech forest.
Roys Peak sunrise hike
Pre-dawn start for the ridge view over the lake and islands.