Wanaka is one of the most scenic towns in New Zealand’s South Island, but it feels very different from nearby Queenstown. It’s smaller, quieter, and more focused on the outdoors. Most people come for Roy’s Peak and the famous Wanaka Tree, but the real appeal is the setting, Lake Wanaka backed by snow capped mountains in every direction. Wanaka is a place you visit for hiking, lake views, and the charm of a small town. If you’re planning a stop on a South Island road trip, this guide covers the best things to do in Wanaka, which hikes are worth the effort, and how to structure your time whether you have one day or a few.
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Table of Contents
- Where Is Wanaka?
- How to Get to Wanaka
- Is Wanaka Worth Visiting?
- Best Time to Visit Wanaka
- Best Things to Do in Wanaka
- How Many Days to Spend in Wanaka?
- How to Spend One Day in Wanaka
- How I Spent One Day In Wanaka
- Where to Stay in Wanaka
- Where to Eat in Wanaka
- FAQ: Things to Do in Wanaka
- Pin this post for later!
Where Is Wanaka?
Wanaka is located in the Otago region of New Zealand’s South Island, about one hour north of Queenstown. It sits at the southern end of Lake Wanaka, surrounded by mountains and open alpine landscape.
If you’re doing a South Island road trip, Wanaka is typically paired with Queenstown, Franz Josef, or Mount Cook. It’s small enough to feel relaxed, but large enough to offer plenty of things to do without needing a long stay.
Because Wanaka, New Zealand is set slightly off the main tourist flow compared to Queenstown, it tends to feel less commercial and more outdoors-focused, especially outside of peak summer and ski season.
How to Get to Wanaka
Most people reach Wanaka by car. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is by far the easiest way to explore both the town and the surrounding hikes.
From Queenstown to Wanaka
The drive from Queenstown to Wanaka takes about one hour via the Crown Range Road. This is the highest main road in New Zealand and offers impressive views along the way. It’s sealed and well-maintained, though it can be icy in winter. There are actually several viewpoints along the way that are very worth stopping at.
If you prefer a slightly longer but easier route, you can drive via Cromwell, which avoids the mountain pass.
From Franz Josef
If you’re coming from the West Coast (for example, after visiting Franz Josef Glacier), expect about a 4–5 hour drive. This is one of the most scenic stretches of a South Island road trip, passing through Haast and along the coast before turning inland toward Lake Wanaka. This is what I did and it was truly stunning!
From Christchurch
Driving from Christchurch takes approximately five hours, depending on stops. Some people combine Wanaka with Mount Cook National Park along the way.
Is Wanaka Worth Visiting?
Yes! If your trip is focused on scenery and hiking. In fact, it was one of my favorite places that I visited on the South Island! If you love to hike, Wanaka has several options depending on your interests.
As I mentioned, Wanaka New Zealand stands out for its access to trails, open mountain views, and the setting along Lake Wanaka. Many of the top things to do in Wanaka are outdoors-based, from summit hikes like Roy’s Peak to relaxed walks along the waterfront.
If you prefer destinations with a lot of structured attractions or nightlife, Queenstown may suit you better. But if you value landscape, space, and easy access to hiking, Wanaka is worth at least one to two nights on a South Island road trip.
Best Time to Visit Wanaka
Wanaka can be visited year-round, but the experience changes significantly by season.
Summer (December–February)
Summer is the most popular time to visit Wanaka New Zealand. Expect long daylight hours, warmer temperatures, and busy trails, especially on Roy’s Peak.
This is the best season for hiking and swimming in Lake Wanaka, but you’ll need to start early to avoid crowds.
Autumn (March–May)
Autumn is one of the most underrated times to visit. The trees around Lake Wanaka and nearby Arrowtown turn shades of gold and orange, and the hiking trails are noticeably quieter.
Temperatures are cooler but still comfortable for most of the main things to do in Wanaka, including longer hikes.
Winter (June–August)
Winter transforms Wanaka into a ski destination, with nearby resorts like Cardrona and Treble Cone drawing visitors.
If skiing isn’t your focus, hiking options become more limited due to snow and ice at higher elevations. However, the mountain scenery can be dramatic if the weather is clear.
Spring (September–November)
Spring can be variable. Snow may still linger at higher elevations early in the season, but by late October and November, hiking conditions improve and wildflowers begin to appear.
If you want fewer crowds while still being able to enjoy most of the outdoor things to do in Wanaka, late spring is a good balance.
Best Things to Do in Wanaka
As I mentioned above, the best things to do in Wanaka are centered around hiking, lake views, and being outside. If you’re planning your time here, these are the experiences worth prioritizing.
1. Hike
If you love to hike, then you are going to absolutely love Wanaka! Here are some popular hikes that you can do here. They range from easy to difficult.
Roy’s Peak
If you only do one hike in Wanaka, this is the one most people choose.
- Distance: 16 km (10 miles) round trip
- Elevation gain: ~1,300 meters (4,265 ft)
- Time: 5–7 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging/Advanced
The Roy’s Peak hike is steep, exposed, and entirely uphill for the first half. There’s no technical terrain, but it’s a sustained climb with very little shade. It’s considered a difficult hike because of the sustained uphill. There really is very little to no flat bits. It’s a constant uphill slog.
The payoff is the panoramic view over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. In addition to the summit, there is another more famous spot just 30 minutes below the summit. This spot called the Roy’s Peak lookout is one of the most photographed spots in the South Island and most people actually end their journey here instead of going all the way to the summit. The view is essentially the same but the summit view is slightly wider and of course less crowded.
Most people do this hike as a sun rise hike. If you are hoping to do it as a sunrise hike, start at least 2.5 hours before sunrise. Make sure you check what time the sun rises the previous day so you time it well. In peak summer this may mean waking up as early as 3 AM but it’s definitely worth it!
You can certainly hike any time of the day but I recommend sunrise if you can make it (or at least very early in the morning) for 2 reasons.
- the track is fully exposed. The uphill is bad. The uphill in the sun? brutal!
- It’s a popular hike and gets crowded. The car park was almost full even when I got there at 3:45 AM
Is Roy’s Peak worth it? Yes!
Isthmus Peak
Often described as the quieter alternative to Roy’s Peak, Isthmus Peak offers similar sweeping views with fewer people.
- Distance: 16 km (10 miles) round trip
- Elevation gain: ~1,000 meters (3,280 ft)
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging/Advanced
The views here are more expansive, with Lake Wanaka on one side and Lake Hawea on the other. It still requires a solid climb, but the overall experience tends to feel less crowded.
If you’re choosing between the two and want fewer hikers on the trail, this may be the better option.
Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain
I actually loved the Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain hike because it’s a 3 in 1 hike! If you want a shorter hike with strong views and fewer crowds than Roy’s Peak, Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain are solid alternatives.
- Distance: Varies by route (2–7 km options)
- Time: 1–3 hours
3 in 1 Hike
There are multiple loop options here as listed below:
- Diamond Lake – Easy
- Wanaka Lookout – Easy to Moderate
- Rocky Mountain Summit – Moderate
You can do all 3 or you can choose 1 or your own adventure. These are progressive, meaning if you want to go all the way to the Rocky Mountain summit, you more or less pass or can take a small detour to do the other 2. I highly recommend going all the way to Rocky Mountain if you can. From one side of the summit you get to see the Southern Alps and an aerial view of Lake Wanaka from the other side.
This is one of the more flexible things to do in Wanaka because you can choose your distance based on time and energy.
Mount Iron
If Roy’s Peak feels like too much, Mount Iron is a shorter option close to town.
- Distance: 4.5 km loop
- Time: 1.5–2 hours
It’s a steady but manageable climb, with 360-degree views over Wanaka, Lake Wanaka, and the surrounding valleys.
This is a good choice if you have limited time but still want elevation and perspective.
Wanaka Hike Comparison Guide
If you’re deciding between hikes, here’s how the main options compare in terms of distance, elevation, effort, and overall payoff.
| Hike | Distance (Round Trip) | Elevation Gain | Time | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roy’s Peak | 16 km | ~1,300 m | 5–7 hrs | Hard | Iconic summit views |
| Isthmus Peak | 16 km | ~1,000 m | 5–6 hrs | Hard | Fewer crowds + dual-lake views |
| Diamond Lake / Rocky Mountain | 2–7 km | Moderate | 1–3 hrs | Easy–Moderate | Shorter scenic loops |
| Mount Iron | 4.5 km | Moderate | 1.5–2 hrs | Moderate | Quick 360° town views |
Quick Picks: Best Wanaka Hikes by Category
If you don’t want to overthink it, here’s the short version:
- Best Overall View: Roy’s Peak
- Best Alternative to Roy’s (Fewer Crowds): Isthmus Peak
- Best Short Hike: Mount Iron
- Best Flexible Option (Multiple Route Lengths): Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain
- Best for Sunrise: Roy’s Peak (start very early)
- Best for a Half-Day: Rocky Mountain or Mount Iron
2. Walk to #ThatWanakaTree
The lone willow tree growing out of Lake Wanaka is another one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand. It’s located just a short walk from town along the waterfront. Early morning is best if you want calm water reflections and fewer people but sunset is also beautiful.
This is one of the easiest things to do in Wanaka and can be combined with a longer lakeside walk.
3. Explore the Lake Wanaka Waterfront
Even if you’re hiking, set aside time to walk along the lake. The Lake Wanaka waterfront is flat, accessible, and ideal for a relaxed morning or evening. You’ll find benches, swimming spots in summer, and clear views across the water toward the mountains.
On a clear day, the lake shifts color throughout the afternoon, which makes it worth visiting more than once during your stay.
4. Viewpoints Along Lake Wanaka
You don’t always need a summit hike to appreciate the scenery. Some of the best views of Lake Wanaka are easily accessible by car or short walks.
Bremner Bay Beach
Bremner Bay Beach is a quieter stretch of shoreline just outside the main town center. It’s a good swimming spot in summer and offers wide, open views across the lake toward the mountains. If you want space without the busier waterfront area, this is a good alternative.
Beacon Point
Beacon Point is located along the road toward Glendhu Bay. It’s a simple roadside stop with clear views across Lake Wanaka and often fewer people than the main waterfront areas. The lake can appear especially blue here on a clear day.
Glendhu Bay Lookout
Farther along the lake, Glendhu Bay offers a broader perspective of the surrounding landscape. There are several pull-off points and short walking paths that give you elevated views back toward Wanaka. It’s an easy addition if you’re already heading toward Roy’s Peak or continuing toward Lake Hawea.
These viewpoints are some of the simplest but most accessible things to do in Wanaka, especially if you want strong scenery without committing to a full hike.
5. Take a Lake Wanaka Boat Ride
For a different perspective, consider getting out on the water. Several operators run scenic cruises on Lake Wanaka, including trips to Mou Waho Island. These boat rides offer views back toward the mountains and access to small island walks that you can’t reach otherwise.
If you’ve spent most of your time hiking, this is a good way to balance your itinerary with something less physically demanding while still staying outdoors.
On calm days, the reflections across Lake Wanaka can be especially clear, making this one of the more relaxed but memorable things to do in Wanaka.
6. Visit the Wanaka Lavender Farm
If you’re visiting between late spring and summer, the Wanaka Lavender Farm is a low effort alternative to the hiking-focused things to do in Wanaka.
Located just a few minutes’ drive from town, the farm features rows of lavender with mountain backdrops, walking paths, and small farm animals. Bloom timing varies by season, but peak flowering typically runs from December through February.
It’s not a large attraction and doesn’t require much time (plan for about an hour). It can get a bit crowded during peak summer months but the place is spread out and there is enough room for everyone.
7. Explore Wineries
Wanaka sits near the Central Otago wine region, known for Pinot Noir. This is considered the world’s most southerly winemaking region. There are actually several wineries in town or very close by that you can explore!
Rippon
Rippon is the most iconic winery in Wanaka, located directly above Lake Wanaka with dramatic mountain views. I love going to wineries all over the world and I think this one might be the most beautiful winery I’ve seen to date. Even if you’re not deeply into wine, the setting alone makes it worth visiting. Tastings are typically structured and seated, and by appointment only. The tastings are all timed so you have to get there on time. Book HERE.
Rippon is also consistently ranked in the 50 Best Vineyards list.
Aitken’s Folly Vineyard
Aitken’s Folly Vineyard is a smaller, more intimate operation. It offers a quieter tasting experience and produces limited quantities, often with a focus on handcrafted, small-batch wines. If you prefer a less commercial setting, this is a good option.
Maude Wines
Maude Wines is known for both its Pinot Noir and aromatic white wines. The tasting room is centrally located in Wanaka, making it convenient if you don’t want to drive outside town. It’s an easy addition to your itinerary if you’re looking for something accessible and low effort.
Nanny Goat Vineyard
Nanny Goat Vineyard is another respected Central Otago producer with a focus on expressive Pinot Noir. While not all production is directly in town, you’ll find their wines widely available in Wanaka. It’s a good label to look for if you’re exploring restaurants or wine bars in the area.
8. Visit Puzzling World
It’s a long-running Wanaka attraction known for its illusion rooms and outdoor maze. It’s especially useful on rainy days or if you’re traveling with someone who isn’t into hiking or kids.
Even if you don’t spend hours there, it’s a distinctly Wanaka stop and adds variety beyond the outdoor-focused things to do in Wanaka.
The next 2 things are a little outside of Wanaka and are worthwhile if you have time. Both of these are skippable if you are driving west after Wanaka as you can do them on the way towards the west coast instead of take up from your time in Wanaka.
9. Visit the Blue Pools (Half-Day Trip)
The Blue Pools are located about one hour north of Wanaka on the road toward Haast.
This short walk leads to strikingly clear, bright blue glacial water set between forested cliffs. The trail is mostly flat and accessible, making it one of the easier outdoor things to do in Wanaka if you’re looking for something low effort but visually impressive.
It’s best visited on a clear day when the sunlight brings out the color of the water. After heavy rain, the pools can appear less vibrant and a bit murky (like when I visited).
10. Drive to Lake Hawea and “The Neck”.
Head north toward Lake Hawea, which sits parallel to Lake Wanaka. The drive here is so beautiful! Fair warning that you may want to stop ever so often to take pictures!
If you continue farther north and you’ll reach a narrow stretch of land known as “The Neck,” where Lake Wanaka sits on one side of the road and Lake Hawea on the other. It’s one of the most unique viewpoints in the region, especially with the snow capped mountains in the background.
This drive doesn’t require hiking or planning! Just clear weather. On a calm day, both lakes can appear dramatically blue, with mountains rising behind them. My pictures below don’t really do justice because the weather wasn’t that great.
How Many Days to Spend in Wanaka?
Most people spend 1-2 days in Wanaka. If you’re only passing through on a South Island road trip, one full day is enough to hike one major trail and spend time along Lake Wanaka.
However, if you want to take it slow, two days allows you to balance a longer hike like Roy’s Peak or Isthmus Peak (or more than one hike), with something more relaxed, such as a lake walk, winery visit, or scenic drive toward Lake Hawea and “The Neck.”
If hiking is your main reason for visiting Wanaka New Zealand, staying two nights gives you flexibility in case of poor weather. Many of the most popular things to do in Wanaka are outdoors-based, and cloud cover can significantly impact summit views.
If you’re not planning to hike, one night is usually sufficient (you can still hike even with one day – see below for what I did!)
In short:
- 1 day: Efficient stop, one hike + lake time
- 2 days: Best balance of hiking and slower activities
- 3+ days: Only necessary if you plan to ski, do multiple major hikes, or explore deeper into Central Otago
How to Spend One Day in Wanaka
I have two versions of this! One is a practical version that takes things slow and the other is what I did 😀
Morning
Assuming you are already in Wanaka/arrived the previous night, you can do the sunrise hike to Roy’s Peak or do a morning hike to Roy’s Peak (if you don’t want to get up before dawn) or to Rocky Mountain (if you don’t want to do an intense hike). On the way back stop at Glendhu Bay for the views.
Starting early is important, especially in summer, since many of the top things to do in Wanaka are trail-based and parking fills up quickly.
Go back to hotel to shower.
Afternoon
Check out the Wanaka Lavender Farm and/or Rippon Winery (or one of the other wineries). Alternatively, you could also go for a drive to the Neck or take a boat ride.
Evening
Walk along the lake, checking out some of the other view points mentioned above AND #thatwanakatree (this is a must in Wanaka!)
How I Spent One Day In Wanaka
I love to hike so here is what I did. This is definitely not for everyone! I got to Wanaka from the West Coast around mid-day and left Wanaka around 11 AM the next morning.
Afternoon
Once I got to Wanaka, I checked out the Wanaka Lavender Farm as it was on the way to town (I visited late December). Then I grabbed a quick bite and did a tasting at the Rippon Winery.
Evening
After the winery, I did the Rocky Mountain hike, stopping at Diamon Lake and detouring to the Wanaka Viewpoint. The hike took me 2.5 hours round trip (This is after chatting with some people at the top too but I can be fast going up ;))
After the hike, I stopped at Glendhu Bay and checked out #thatwanakatree before getting dinner.
Early Morning
I left the hotel at 3:30 AM to get to Roy’s Peak. The night sky was incredible that day! I just wanted to get to the Roy’s Peak View Point and back and had zero intensions of going all the way up.
Morning
After the hike, I went back to the hotel, showered, checked out and got some breakfast. From there I checked out some of the other beautiful viewpoints along the lake before leaving Wanaka for Queenstown.
Where to Stay in Wanaka
Where to stay depends mostly on whether you want lake views, walkability, or something quieter outside town.
Lakefront / Town Center
Staying near the Lake Wanaka waterfront allows you to walk to restaurants, the Wanaka Tree, and the main town area. This is the most convenient option if you’re only staying one night.
Mid-Range Hotels & Apartments
Wanaka has several modern apartment-style accommodations that work well if you’re staying two nights and want more space.
Glendhu Bay Area
If you prefer a quieter setting, staying slightly outside town near Glendhu Bay offers more open space and easy access to Roy’s Peak trailhead.
Book early during summer and ski season. Accommodation fills quickly during peak months.
Where I Stayed
I stayed at Golfcourse Road Chalets and Lodge and it was very close to town and the waterfront but was in a quiet part of town. The property was beautiful and the room was nice and spacious.
Where to Eat in Wanaka
Wanaka has a solid food scene for its size, especially if you’re refueling after a long hike.
Big Fig
A good option for fast, healthy meals. Portions are generous, and it’s ideal if you’ve just come off Roy’s Peak and want something filling without a long wait.
Francesca’s Italian Kitchen
Reliable Italian food in a central location. It’s a good dinner choice if you want something sit-down but not overly formal.
Bistro Gentil
A slightly more refined option with lake views. It’s well suited for a slower evening, especially if you’re staying two nights and want one nicer meal.
Federal Diner
A popular breakfast and brunch spot. Expect a wait during peak season, but it’s a strong choice before heading out for a morning hike.
I had one of the best burgers I’ve ever had at Ya Ma’s. Just thinking about it makes me so hungry!
FAQ: Things to Do in Wanaka
What is Wanaka known for?
Wanaka New Zealand is known for Roy’s Peak, the Wanaka Tree, Lake Wanaka, and its access to outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, and scenic drives.
Is Wanaka better than Queenstown?
They offer different experiences. Queenstown is more adrenaline-focused and busier, while Wanaka feels quieter and more hiking-centered. If you prefer a relaxed pace and easy access to trails, Wanaka may suit you better.
How many days do you need in Wanaka?
One to two days is ideal for most travelers. One day allows for a major hike and time along Lake Wanaka. Two days gives you more flexibility and room for a scenic drive or winery visit.
Is Roy’s Peak hard?
Yes. It’s not technical, but the climb is steep and sustained with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain. Good fitness and an early start are recommended.
Can you swim in Lake Wanaka?
Yes, during summer. Bremner Bay Beach is one of the more popular swimming spots when temperatures are warmer.
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