10 Outdoor Activities in Wanaka That You Shouldn't Miss

September 3, 2021 Vivienne Hutton

The South Island town of Wanaka appeals to both adventure lovers and relaxation-minded travelers. Situated on the crystal-clear waters of New Zealand's fourth-largest lake, just a short drive from Mount Aspiring National Park, Wanaka is an ideal spot to go fishing, hiking, skiing, wine-tasting or golfing. The city also hosts Warbirds Over Wanaka, the largest three-day air show in the Southern Hemisphere.
Restaurants in Wanaka

1. Eco Wanaka Adventures

Excellent
95%
Good
4%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 348 reviews

Eco Wanaka Adventures

Eco Wanaka Lake, Island and Mountain Adventures offers - Lake Cruise & island Walk - Rare flightless birds, a magical lake on top of an island and a unique opportunity to plant a native tree as part of this eco-experience. Rob Roy Glacier Guided Trek - The World Heritage area's Jewel, Rob Roy has it all! Swingbridge, Rainforest, waterfalls, icefalls, and comical Keas all in one day! Walk in "THE HOBBIT's" footsteps - The Misty Mountains Heli Hike starts at 2100m, on the very set that was used in all 3 trilogies - With 3 "Lord of the Rings" film sites also seen from this paramount site. Magical panoramas can be seen from this commanding site from the movie featured, glacier cloaked Mt Aspiring at 3033m to the Laketown of Wanaka far below! 1400m above worry level- The Alpine Lakes Heli Hike is a pure wilderness experience- 3 pristine emerald clear lakes with a commanding view of the Matukituki Valley - As easy or as challenging as you like, this incredible World Heritage area is part of the glaciated Mt Aspiring National Park. Just stunning photographic views!

2. Wanaka River Journeys

Excellent
93%
Good
5%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 474 reviews

Wanaka River Journeys

Come with us on the most exciting half day adventure activity in New Zealand, jet boating beneath the spectacular scenery of Glaciers & Lord of The Rings locations, into world heritage Mount Aspiring National Park. Flowing from Glaciers, the pristine waters of the Matukituki River are perfect to experience jet boating on the longest and most spectacular jet boat tour in New Zealand. Travel at speed over shallow braids, drift into turns and yes… experience exciting spins, And there is MORE… Deep in the mountains & off the beaten track enjoy a 50-minute walk through moss covered forest, waterfalls and glacier fed streams. Walk in awe beneath Avalanche Glacier when conditions permit or into McGills Creek to explore one of the most beautiful and serene forest walks. Hear the stories of this unique ice carved landscape and see photo opportunities not to miss. For those who want to explore more add a glacier helicopter flight from the jet boat or a 4WD farm safari

3. Ridgeline Adventures

Excellent
94%
Good
5%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 369 reviews

Ridgeline Adventures

New Zealand's ultimate alpine mountain-farm adventure. The perfect mix of Wanaka's breath-taking scenery, history, heritage and farming life. This will be a genuine highlight of your New Zealand holiday.

4. Wanaka Parasailing

Excellent
96%
Good
4%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 113 reviews

Wanaka Parasailing

Come and parasail on beautiful Lakes Wanaka or Hawea with the safe and fun crew of Wanaka Parasailing.

5. The Cardrona

Excellent
97%
Good
3%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1,180 reviews

The Cardrona

First class scenic horse trekking and quad bike tours of the stunning Cardrona Valley, Wanaka, South Island, New Zealand

6. Go Jets Wanaka

Excellent
98%
Good
1%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 262 reviews

Go Jets Wanaka

"The Ultimate Clutha River Jetboating Experience" Let us take you down the "Mighty Clutha River" The river flows swiftly through the ancient glacial terraces.We will take you through the long section called the "Snake"before reaching a rare switchback feature called the "Devils Nook"

7. Deep Canyon

Excellent
92%
Good
4%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 313 reviews

Deep Canyon

Deep Canyon canyoning adventures are a journey unlike any other! Open from 1 Oct until 30 April each New Zealand summer. Get in touch with our beautiful natural world and see beauty you’ve only dreamed of. Experience the raw power inside the waterfalls contrasted with the tranquility of deep, forested pools; from sculptural rock-scapes to glowing green moss droplets, you will be immersed in a world you never knew existed. And talk about fun! Challenge yourself in ways you’ve never imagined. Plunge down water polished chutes and abseil down waterfalls. Jump off cliffs! Climb, swim and float through an amazing world of water- sculpted rock, deep clear pools and spectacular waterfalls. We specialise in hands-on trips with a high level of personal satisfaction and our focus is strongly on good humour! Amazing places, interesting challenges, friendly people and Great Big Fun!

8. Southern Alps Air - Scenic Flights

Excellent
96%
Good
2%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 222 reviews

Southern Alps Air - Scenic Flights

Try the Milford Sound Glacier Flight & Cruise from Wanaka with Southern Alps Air. WHY? because of where Wanaka is located geographically in relation to Milford Sound you will FLY FURTHER - the circular flight path is 1hr 30mins. SEE MORE glaciers, waterfalls, the Olivine Ice Plateau & Mt Aspiring up close + more. SAVE TIME The drive from Wanaka to Milford Sound is 10hrs return. Enjoy the Milford flight & 2hr Mitre Peak Boat Cruise and you need only allow 4 hours return. Option of Heli Glacier Landing while at Milford Sound. ALSO Mt Cook & Mt Aspiring options or the amazing FLY-WALK-JETBOAT Experiences of Siberia Experience or Blue Pools Nature Experience. Our experienced team provide a friendly and professional service. During your flight, enjoy a personalized commentary and uninterrupted views from your window seat. Qualmark and Enviro endorsed locally owned and operated family business. Department of Conservation approved operator with an excellent safety record.

9. Backcountry Saddle Expeditions

Wanaka 9392 New Zealand +64 3-443 8151 [email protected] http://www.backcountrysaddles.co.nz
Excellent
97%
Good
2%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 714 reviews

Backcountry Saddle Expeditions

Backcountry Saddle Expeditions has celebrated a few milestones this year... They are 36 years old... with an outstanding 30 years under the current management of Debs Thompson. Debs is a "hands on" outdoor girl and wishes to share her family of "fur babies" with everyone. Henry the cat, Dixie the dog and her stunning herd of 20 Appaloosa horses. Appaloosa's are an American Indian horse who are best known for their stunning spotted coloration. They are a mountain breed and are suited to the beautiful mountain steeps of the Hidden Valley, Earnscleugh. To keep the western theme the horses are outfitted in Western Saddles which ensure the rider a safe, secure and more comfortable ride. Come and enjoy the family and meet Debs and her team.

Reviewed By annaholling - Sydney, Australia

As young girls both me and my sister were regular horse-riders, and as we grew up and started travelling it became tradition to find a place to ride in every country we travelled to. From Australia to Vanuatu, Hawaii to Canada, never have we found a place as amazing at Backcountry Saddle Expeditions. We've had the pleasure of riding with these guys 3 times now, and the care that is put into the horses and the business is obvious. As experienced riders me and my sister struggle to ride freely at other trail-riding establishments (i.e. be allowed to canter with beginner riders around) - but the team at Backcountry Saddle cater for riders of all types. Beginners are taken good care of with gorgeous friendly horses, and more experienced riders are given plenty of chances to canter around some of the most gorgeous landscapes the south island has to offer. These guys absolutely deserve your business and you will leave with the biggest smile on your face, guaranteed. Horse fanatic or not, it's an experience to remember x

10. Lakeland Wanaka

Excellent
91%
Good
7%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 221 reviews

Lakeland Wanaka

At Lakeland Wanaka, we offer a wide range of water based outdoor activities to suit most travel budgets and all age groups. Our range includes jet boating the Clutha River, touring Lake Wanaka by boat or exploring the lake and land at your own pace via bike, kayak or water toys. Whether travelling alone or in a group you will find activity suitable to your needs at Lakeland Wanaka. Located on the waterfront of Lake Wanaka in the Log Cabin building, Lakeland Wanaka operates from the heart of Wanaka boasting the best office views. Come down and see how we can make your holiday in Wanaka, New Zealand one never to forget.

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.