Wanaka Holidays

A lively town buzzing with a carefree spirit, Wanaka’s picture-perfect location and renowned not only for its outdoor adventures but its vibrant mix of restaurants, cafes, shops and plenty of areas to relax and take in the amazing scenery.

Located in the spectacular Alps of the South Island, visitors from around the world are drawn to the Wanaka region by its outstanding beauty. The stunning mountain and lakeside setting and proximity to Mt Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Area, makes it the ultimate base for outdoor adventures.

At 45 kilometres long and covering 193 square kilometres, the crystal-clear water of Lake Wanaka is ideal for kayaking, fishing, lake cruises and jetboating to explore. For adventure seekers, you can go skydiving, canyoning, climbing or mountaineering and there are hundreds of kilometres of tracks for hiking or biking.  In winter, Wanaka is a lively centre for skiers and snowboarders with several ski fields just a short drive from the town – Cardrona Alpine Resort, Treble Cone Sky Area and Snow Farm.  There is also The Remarkables Sky Area and Coronet Peak Sky Area in Queenstown.

It is not just the outdoor enthusiasts who have plenty to do, stroll the streets and be inspired by galleries, stylish shops and be spoilt for choice with a great selection of cool cafes, excellent restaurants, craft breweries, award-winning wineries, and an artisan distillery. You will find world-class restaurants and cafes, wineries and breweries.  Visit the Wanaka’s Farmers’ Market, held every Thursday afternoon where you will find locally made chocolates, cakes, award winning breads and pastries and mulled wine in the wintertime.

Enjoy three days in the month of April of high-octane aviation excitement at Warbirds Over Wanaka International Air show, now classified as one of the best Warbirds air shows in the world, it combines classic vintage and veteran aircraft, machinery, fire engines, and tractors with dynamic Air Force displays and aerobatic teams in the natural amphitheatre of the Upper Clutha Basin

With four distinct seasons, Wanaka is a year-round destination. Summers are hot and dry and perfect for water sports, biking and hiking. Winters are cool and fresh with the ski areas offering great options for skiers and snowboarders. Spring is the ideal time to get out and explore the lakeside walks, and the beautiful colours of autumn are perfect for taking pictures.