10 Sightseeing Tours in Wanaka That You Shouldn't Miss

January 20, 2022 Janette Largent

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. Wedding Māori Welcome

Wanaka, Wanaka, Otago Region, South Island WanaHaka Tours
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

If you are looking to include New Zealand Maori culture and a Welcome to Wanaka/Queenstown and to your special day this Powhiri welcome is a unique and special memory to include in your wedding day. Because it is personalised we can discuss what best suits your needs, from experience it is ideally suited prior to the Bride, Groom and Wedding party entering the reception, or at a gathering with all guests and family prior to the wedding day itself. The Bridge and Groom get a bone carving and the guests and wedding party get an experience they will remember in your wedding forever.

Inclusions: All activities

Exclusions: Gratuities, Transportation to and from the venue by WanaHaka® will be added as a separate charge.

Reviewed By TGaudin-Brady

What an amazing trip! Joe was so friendly and went the extra mile to make us feel welcome. His Maori knowledge of the region was second to none. The vineyards we went to were great, being able to try many different varietals of wine and the staff were also very friendly and welcoming. This trip is definitely recommended, especially if you want something a bit more special than your standard wine tour. A must do if you are in Queenstown or Wanaka. Thanks again Joe!!

2. Milford Sound Glacier Flight & Cruise from Wanaka

Wanaka Airport, 16 Lloyd Dunn Place RD2, State Highway 6, Wanaka 9382, New Zealand Siberia Experience
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5.0 based on 13 reviews

Fly further and see more when you fly with us from Wanaka. Fly to Milford Sound through two of New Zealand’s most picturesque national parks. View alpine lakes nestled amongst snowcapped mountain peaks and pristine glaciers, with vast rain forest and cascading waterfalls visible from every seat! Locally owned with an excellent safety record. Mount Cook + Fox Franz & Tasman Glaciers and Mount Aspiring & Glaciers are other options available, giving you the opportunity to view huge, untouched vistas of land.

Inclusions: Scenic flight & boat cruise, Free parking at Wanaka airport, Coffee and/or Tea

Exclusions: Personal expenses, Food and drink

Reviewed By CA300

The Siberia Wilderness trip had been on the bucket list for some time and was well worth the wait. It was a fantastic trip. An absolute gem of an experience and right at our back door! Well looked after by all the staff, office, pilot, jet boat driver. Everything was well organised. Highly recommend it. Get out there Kiwis!!

3. 23-Day Epic New Zealand Tour

No. 9 Hotel, 9 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland 1023, New Zealand Haka Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Over 24 unforgettable days you will experience it all: secluded beaches, jaw-dropping scenery, Māori culture, mountainous ranges, lush rainforests and more adventure activities than you could ever wish for. As with all our tours, we do include a few 'must-do' events, ranging from a Māori cultural night to learning to paddle a waka (Māori war canoe), and even a greenstone carving experience. You will see a massive range of optional activities available to add, from bungy jumping and dolphin swimming to jet boating and scenic flights. None of these are compulsory; just add the ones you want. Activities can also be purchased on the road – just let your tour guide know. We can't always guarantee availability when booking on the road, so we suggest pre-booking any activities you especially want to do.

Inclusions: Continental Breakfast Every Day - heaps of options for everyone (you too, vegans!), Orientation Tours - we give you the low-down on every location, Comfortable Transport - with plenty of room to spread out, High-End Hostel Accommodation - dorm share, upgrades available, Experienced Local Guide , Small Groups - Max 16 people. You are more than just a number, Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the birthplace of New Zealand, 2 dinners Fish'n'Chips in Paihia and a traditional cooked hangi in Murupara to full your puku! (belly), Experience a Māori cultural performance in Rotorua during the Cultural Experience Night, Visit Te Puia - cultural centre about traditional Māori culture and Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, Learn to paddle a waka (Māori war canoe) along the Abel Tasman coastline, Iconic ferry ride between the North and South Islands across the Cook Strait, Optional transport back from Wellington to Auckland on Day 24

Exclusions: Additional activities - such as bungy jumping, Lunch and dinner are own costs - unless specified

Reviewed By Elizabeth K

I booked a trip scheduled 2nd April, the company notified me that due Covid 19 pandemic the tour would be cancelled. I was offered options of a refund or get credits. I chose refund as I was not gonna get any other time which they concurred. After 2 weeks I was contacted by one rude Eva Lawrence who stayed that the business was not doing well due to the pandemic hence they would not refund back the money?! So is that how you treat your customers? Was it my fault that you cancelled the trip due to the pandemic??! I need a refund ASAP. [email protected] +61450753569

4. 7 Day South Island Lick Tour

Haka Lodge Christchurch, 518 Linwood Avenue, Woolston, Christchurch 8062, New Zealand Haka Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Starting and ending in the “Garden City” of Christchurch, we show you the ultimate highlights of New Zealand’s stunning South Island over 7 action-packed days. From turquoise lakes to towering mountains and glaciers, the South Island’s scenery will blow your mind, and the nation’s adventure capital, Queenstown, has all the adrenalin activities on offer that you could possibly wish for. Activities can be pre-booked or purchased on the road - just let your tour guide know. We can't always guarantee availability when booking on the road, so we suggest pre- booking any activities you especially want to do. As the tour starts early in the morning, you can opt to book accommodation in Christchurch with us the night before the tour – only having to walk downstairs on day 1 makes for a stress-free morning. Accommodation is included on the last night of your tour, but we can also book a few extra nights for you if you would like to extend your stay.

Inclusions: 7 nights in high-end hostel accommodation – dorm share, upgrades available, Small groups, maximum 16, Orientation tour of every location, Continental breakfast every day, Dinner on first night, TranzAlpine train from Greymouth to Christchurch, Carve your own pounamu/jade pendant in Franz Josef, Comfortable bus transport, Journey through multiple National Parks

Exclusions: Lunch and Dinner (unless specified) at own cost, Add on activities ie - Bungy jumping

Reviewed By Elizabeth K

I booked a trip scheduled 2nd April, the company notified me that due Covid 19 pandemic the tour would be cancelled. I was offered options of a refund or get credits. I chose refund as I was not gonna get any other time which they concurred. After 2 weeks I was contacted by one rude Eva Lawrence who stayed that the business was not doing well due to the pandemic hence they would not refund back the money?! So is that how you treat your customers? Was it my fault that you cancelled the trip due to the pandemic??! I need a refund ASAP. [email protected] +61450753569

5. Private Full Day Photo Tour of Queenstown | Skippers | Glenorchy | Wanaka |Otago

Aiste Vasileviciute Photography
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

• This private photography tour provides a flexible itinerary. • You can choose an astro photography tour option between February & November. • You will receive approx 5 -10 complimentary professional digital photographs within the week or two after the tour. • This local business is approved by Department of Conservation (DOC) to operate in public conservation areas in the South Island. It complies with environmental standards set by DOC, as well as safety standards set by an independent auditor. The DOC label shows visitors that the business pays fees to DOC to support conservation in New Zealand. • Your guide holds the public liability insurance, first aid certification and Passenger Service license, which allows to carry and transport clients and are the legal requirements for running this kind of business safely. All of this provides confidence and peace of mind to the clients that this local business offers only the high quality, safe and enjoyable experiences.

Inclusions: Coffee, tea & bottled water, Picnic lunch & snacks, Photographic guidance, Complimentary high resolution digital images of you during the tour, Air-conditioned 4WD vehicle with WiFi on board, Flexible itinerary and starting time, Personalized tour for solo visitors or small group (2-4 people), The Department of Conservation (DOC) approved business to operate in public conservation areas

Exclusions: Personal insurance

Reviewed By P1963YQamandad

We contacted Aiste very last minute and she was so accommodating. She actually did a family session for us - my husband, me, and our kids ages 15, 12 and 10. Despite the unbelievable WIND, Aiste captured some gorgeous photos that literally took my breath away. She got some great posed and candid shots that really brought out the personalities of each of our children. She was excellent to work with, communicated quickly and was fun during the session. I highly recommend Aiste for your family Queenstown photo session!

6. Wine Tour from Wanaka & Cromwell: Full Day

1 Ballantyne Road, Mount Aspiring National Park 9305, New Zealand Wineberry Tours
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5.0 based on 8 reviews

This is a relaxing wine tour for small groups of family and friends who want an exclusive experience. You will travel in a luxury air-conditioned SUV with leather seats, generous legroom, extra headroom, sunroof and USB power. On board there is a free wi fi hotspot, coolbox for food and beverages, wine carrier for purchases and umbrellas. Complimentary bottled water and crackers are also provided. You will discover an amazing range of award winning wines including Pinot Noir, Rosé, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and sparkling wine. You will journey through four distinct winemaking sub regions and visit boutique wineries off the beaten track on this great value wine tasting experience. A platter lunch can be booked in advance on your behalf with expenses payable by you directly to the cellar door. I am a photographer and will take pictures of your memorable day free of charge a send them to you via download link.

Inclusions: Wine tasting fees, Bottled water, Crackers for palate cleansing between tastings, Coolbox for your drinks, food, over 24 wines available for tasting, Air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, Wine tasting guide

Exclusions: A platter style lunch can be booked in advance on your behalf with expenses payable by you (from $20 per head) ; platter menus available on request.

Reviewed By divyanz

Greg was super generous with his knowledge of the region and its wines, and it was a real privilege enjoying the wine experience with him. He took us to cellar doors at boutique wineries we wouldn't have been able to access otherwise, definitely not 4 in half a day. Absolutely recommend a wine tour with Greg for a true Central Otago wine experience (and he does the driving!)

7. Arrowtown and Wanaka Premium Tour from Queenstown

Remarkable Scenic Tours
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4.9 based on 56 reviews

The Original and top rated Arrowtown & Wanaka Small Group Full Day Tour. This tour has been the top rated small group experience of this type for the last five years. 6 Regions : Arrowtown, Wanaka, Cromwell, Crown Range, Cardrona, Gibbston & Kawarau Gorge 13 Amazing Stops : LOTR & Bungy Bridge, Kawarau Gorge, Fruit Tasting, Cromwell, 45th sign, Wanaka township, high view over Lake Wanaka, the Wanaka tree, bra fence, Cardrona Hotel, Crown Range, Crown Terrace and Arrowtown/Chinese Village. Small group tour to Arrowtown, Wanaka plus much much more. We provide fun interesting commentary, help with your photos and give great recommendations for everything from lunch to shopping. Being the top rated and original Arrowtown & Wanaka small group tour your day is going to be amazing. The best way to see the region is with a fun local guide.  Morning refreshments and an a afternoon beverage included. Please note this tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old.

Inclusions: Fun Local Guide, Morning refreshments in a cafe including a hot drink and snack, Cardrona ale or a non alcoholic Ginger beer at the Cardrona Hotel, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Lunch, No children under five

Reviewed By Merrycoco

Our guide Wayne was excellent. It was our first time at Arrowtown and Wanaka. Although it was a small group tour, the tour was very thorough, making sure we had the best experience at every scenic spot. Great commentary and thank you for showing us the best angles/poses for photos at each stop! We also appreciate the tips for best local restaurants and cafes around town - we actually tried one of the cafes for our last day, and it was great! :) Thank you so much

8. 1-Hour Ruby Island Cruise and Walk from Wanaka

Wanaka Lakefront, Ardmore Street, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand Lake Wanaka Cruises
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4.9 based on 14 reviews

This is the most popular cruise when time is limited, the Ruby Island Cruise is a great way to explore the outstanding scenery of Lake Wanaka, New Zealand in just over 1-Hour. Guests will enjoy a self guided tour of the island with many incredible photo opportunities on this small-group tour. The grade is easy and suitable for children and seniors as well.

Inclusions: Guided Island walk, Restroom on board, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Food and drinks

Reviewed By TaniaB2608

We could not have asked for better, 5 hours later and we are still buzzing. It was so relaxed, Jim and his offsider were brilliant. (I am so sorry I missed your name) You both were very knowledgeable of the history and area. It really was perfect, from the picturesque snow capped mountains to the stillness of the lake. Once we reached the island, there was a picture perfect photo opportunity with every turn. Hearing the native birds and just taking in the environment was amazing. Thank you guys so much for offering this cruise, we would highly recommend this to anyone.

9. Wine Tour From Wanaka: Half Day

1 Ballantyne Road, Mount Aspiring National Park 9305, New Zealand Wineberry Tours
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4.9 based on 7 reviews

See four wineries on this fantastic wine tour. Great for small groups of family and friends who want an exclusive experience. You will travel in a luxury air-conditioned SUV with leather seats, generous legroom, extra headroom, sunroof and USB power. On board there is a free wi fi hotspot, coolbox for your snacks and beverages, wine carrier for purchases and umbrellas. Complimentary bottled water and crackers are also provided. You will discover an amazing range of award winning wines including Pinot Noir, Rosé, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and sparkling wine. You will journey through three distinct winemaking sub regions and visit boutique wineries off the beaten track on this great value wine tasting experience. I am also a photographer and will take pictures of your memorable day trip free of charge and send them to you via download link after the tour.

Inclusions: Wine tasting fees, Wine tasting guide, Air-conditioned vehicle, over 20 wines available for tasting, Bottled water, Crackers for palate cleansing between tastings, WiFi on board, Umbrellas

Exclusions: Please ensure that you have your lunch prior to departure.

Reviewed By Exploration202242

We had a wonderful day of wine tasting with Greg. He was very knowledgeable and passionate about wine and the region. Spending a day with him was an absolute blast. We can’t stop recommending this tour to all our friends and family. Overall experience absolutely 5 star! Thank you Greg :)

10. Stevensons Island Cruise and Nature Walk from Wanaka

100 Ardmore Street, Wanaka 9305, New Zealand Lake Wanaka Cruises
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4.7 based on 30 reviews

Enjoy a 2 hour small group cruise and nature walk to Stevensons island. Once aboard the luxury catamaran, guests will relax in comfort and enjoy a 40 minute cruise among spectacular mountain scenery followed by a guided tour to the island summit with outstanding photo opportunities.

Inclusions: Cruise and guided Island walk, All taxes, fees and handling charges, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Department of Conservation Park fees, Afternoon tea, Local guide, Coffee and/or Tea

Exclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Reviewed By TaniaB2608

We could not have asked for better, 5 hours later and we are still buzzing. It was so relaxed, Jim and his offsider were brilliant. (I am so sorry I missed your name) You both were very knowledgeable of the history and area. It really was perfect, from the picturesque snow capped mountains to the stillness of the lake. Once we reached the island, there was a picture perfect photo opportunity with every turn. Hearing the native birds and just taking in the environment was amazing. Thank you guys so much for offering this cruise, we would highly recommend this to anyone.

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