Location: Wanaka
Top Things to do in Wanaka
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What to do and see in Wanaka, South Island: The Best Budget-friendly Things to do
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. Mount Aspiring National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 180 reviews
Reviewed By StanDallas - Dallas, United States
Peaceful, quietness, silence and roaring Thunder Creek Falls. Not to far away from Queenstown NZ is paradise. Summer camping in the national park looking into black skies for that Southern Cross among the ever changing constellations. Addiction can be to a place also.
2. Wanaka River Journeys
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 474 reviews
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. Go Jets Wanaka
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 262 reviews
"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"
4. Lake Wanaka Cruises
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 141 reviews
Daily scheduled cruises on Lake Wanaka aboard our 55 ft power catamaran. Trips include island beach landings and nature walks. Boat has upper and lower enclosed areas for comfort.
5. Hook Wanaka
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 138 reviews
Catch your very own Chinook salmon from our spring fed lakes then relax or explore while our team prepare it for you. Our heated courtyard serves tasting platters, sharing plates and has something for everything. Sample local wine and beer from around the region, or simply enjoy a coffee.
6. Backcountry Saddle Expeditions
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 714 reviews
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
7. Crossfire Wanaka
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 332 reviews
Crossfire Wanaka, located in Criffel Junction is just a short 10 minute drive from Wanaka. Claybird, miniput, a rifle range, golf driving range, archery- whether you're with your family or your friends, a day out at Crossfire will always hit the mark!
Reviewed By AmandaJP1970 - Auckland, New Zealand
Fantastic place - friendly - helpful - excellent customer service - Jamie was fantastic - thanks so much - we did golf, claybird shooting, rifle range and archery - totally worthwhile - excellent value for money
8. Lake Wanaka
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,293 reviews
Reviewed By ivangH5657RG
This natural wonder is so pleasant, families with children can enjoy many water activities by boating, water skiing or just having tasty picnic and feeding local ducks. Also nearby there is children playground as well. To walk to town takes about 10 minutes where you can get ice cream or cosy lunch or diner. And prices are very moderate.
9. Wanaka Bike Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 233 reviews
Tailored mountain biking trips through the stunningly beautiful landscape of majestic Wanaka and it's surrounds, experience our scenery at your own pace. We can cater for all ages and abilities, from self-guided Bike & Transport trips along the local river trails to guided action filled adventures along the lofty peaks of the New Zealand high country. Wanaka's best kept secrets are only a short pedal away. Come and see for yourself!
10. Roys Peak Track
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 916 reviews
The track is closed for lambing from 1 October - 10 November each year. Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.
Reviewed By winterystorm - Cairns, Australia
I was lucky enough to be with a group on the Runaways Southern Highlights tour. These guys know what they are doing. We started on the mountain at 4am and with the awesome moonlight didn't need to use our headlamps. I would totally recommend starting as early as you can. When the sun comes out there is no hiding from it, no shade at all. The tour director rightly called many sections of it punchy. It took some in the group 1:45 to get to the peak, but it was -1 (degrees celcius) and pretty darn chilly. I took 2:30 and made it just in the nick of time to see one of the most spectacularly majestic sunrises I've ever seen. If you haven't been training for hills/mountains, then start early, take a good amount of water, dress sensibly to protect yourself from the sun on the way up and the cold at the top and wear shoes with decent grip. It's pretty steep in some parts. Expect it to be difficult but know that when you get to the top, every second will have been worth it. Just sooooo incredible. I found that doing a zig zag type move in the really steep bits helped a lot and of course having Isaac, tour director of Runaways encouraging me helped more than I probably realise. I'm 45 and my fitness is average. Still even in my less fit days, the breathlessness and sore muscles are totally worth it. Just be well prepared.
