What to do and see in Wanaka, South Island: The Best Things to do Good for Big Groups

July 5, 2021 Mikaela Didonna

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

Ballantyne Rd, Wanaka New Zealand http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/otago/places/mount-aspiring-national-park
Excellent
80%
Good
17%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 180 reviews

Mount Aspiring National Park

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

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. 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

4. 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"

5. Lake Wanaka Cruises

Excellent
87%
Good
11%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 141 reviews

Lake Wanaka Cruises

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.

6. Hook Wanaka

Excellent
87%
Good
7%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
4%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 138 reviews

Hook Wanaka

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.

7. 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

8. Wanaka Wine Tours

Excellent
90%
Good
6%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
2%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 169 reviews

Wanaka Wine Tours

Wanaka Wine Tours has been in operation since 2001. It is the original wine touring company in and around Wanaka. We take you to the best places to sample award winning wines and to hear the local stories. As we travel our friendly and knowledgeable guides will tell you tales and stories of the people and land as you enjoy the stunning scenery. Lake Wanaka is the worlds first protected lifestyle reserve. It is a very special place and we look forward to sharing it with you.

9. Crossfire Wanaka

9 Mount Barker Road, Wanaka 9382 New Zealand +64 3-443 5995 [email protected] http://www.crossfirewanaka.co.nz/
Excellent
82%
Good
17%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 332 reviews

Crossfire Wanaka

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

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.

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