Things to do in Wanaka
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Top 10 attractions in Wanaka
Skydive Wanaka
Wanaka skydiving is one of the most unique and exciting experiences in New Zealand. Compared with skydiving in Queenstown, Wanaka skydiving does not see the bustling street scene, but has a wider view of natural scenery. When you jump from a plane at 15,000 feet and experience an exciting free fall, you can enjoy undisturbed views of New Zealand's highest peak, Mount Cook, the sapphire mirror-like Lake Wanaka and glaciers, Views such as rivers. SkydiveWanaka is a skydiving company based in Wanaka. It currently offers skydiving at two heights, taking off from 15,000 feet or 12,000 feet, respectively. After 60 seconds or 45 seconds of free fall, start a 4-5 minute landing flight. Choose a package with video recording. To experience Wanaka skydiving, you need to book in advance on the official website or find an agent, and then go directly to the skydiving center to report. SkydiveWanaka can also provide free transportation to and from Wanaka town. Skydive can only be done in fine weather. If the activity you booked is cancelled due to weather, SkydiveWanaka will reschedule the skydive time for you. If the time affects your subsequent itinerary, you can also choose a full refund. The skydiving center is located at Wanaka Airport. After checking in at the front desk, the staff will take you to the screening hall to watch the Chinese version of the skydiving explanation video, so that you can understand the precautions and do some standard actions. Then fill in the Chinese version of the safety instructions and risk responsibility notice. With the help of professional staff, you can put on the skydiving equipment, and then you can take the plane and set off. The accompanying coach and photographer will decompress you professionally. Once you reach a certain height, you can experience skydiving, all you need to do is jump with the accompanying instructor. In the process of free fall, the body cannot bend, it must be bowed to maintain stability, and the hands must be open. There is a lot of wind in the sky, and you can feel your cheeks being blown by the wind, which is very exciting. After dozens of seconds of free fall, the accompanying instructor opens the parachute and starts to glide in the air. The instructor will also make many large swings to increase the fun of skydiving. When approaching the ground, you must raise your legs as required, and leave the landing to the accompanying coach, because people without professional training are easily injured when landing. If you book a package with video recordings, you can wait about 20 minutes after returning to the skydiving center to get the edited skydiving video and photos.Wanaka · 9.7 km from downtown
Wānaka
Wānaka is backed by the Southern Alps and is a lakeside town that blends refined living, family vacations, and outdoor adventure. Cafes, restaurants, and unique shops in the town center line the lakeshore. Just a few steps away, you can sit by the water and watch the snow-capped mountains reflected in the clear lake. The lone willow tree standing in the lake is an iconic image of the town. The soft light during the morning mist and at sunset are popular times for photography. The town has a deep connection with aviation. You can book sightseeing flights, helicopter tours, or skydiving at the airport to overlook Lake Wānaka and the glacial peaks of Mount Aspiring from the air. The town hosts a biennial airshow featuring classic military aircraft, a traditional local event. During the winter ski season, ski resorts such as Cardrona and Treble Cone are within a one-hour drive. In spring and summer, the Roy's Peak track attracts many hikers with its panoramic views of Lake Wānaka. It is also a convenient base if you want to venture into Mount Aspiring National Park for hiking or mountaineering.Wanaka · 864m from downtown
Lake Wānaka
Lake Wānaka is surrounded by mountains on all sides. It is the fourth-largest lake in New Zealand and the source of the Clutha River, a major river on the South Island. The lake water is crystal clear and blue, with exceptional clarity. On clear days, snow-capped peaks and the blue sky are reflected on the lake's surface. Viewed from above, it looks like a sapphire embedded in the valley. It is a year-round destination: enjoy flowers in spring, swimming in summer, photography in fall, and skiing in winter. You can sit on the pebble-covered beach, look around, and admire the beautiful lake and mountain scenery; you can take a small plane to circle the lake and look down from above at the white of the snow-capped mountains and the deep blue of the lake. The poplar-lined avenue by the lake is renowned, and the rows of trees reflected on the lake's surface are poetic and picturesque. Especially in the golden fall, the yellow leaves by the lake are a stunning sight, with the entire forest painted in golden hues, full of fall charm.Minaret Bay · 18.5 km from Wanaka
ThatWanakaTree
ThatWanakaTree is a lone willow tree growing in the waters at the southern end of Lake Wānaka. It stands in shallow water not far from the shore, right next to the lakeside trail. According to local lore, decades ago, a willow branch used as a fence post was stuck into the lakebed. It later took root and sprouted, growing into the solitary tree in the lake that we see today, attracting numerous photography enthusiasts. The unique charm of this attraction lies in its natural appearance that changes with the seasons: in spring and summer, its branches and leaves spread out, with the greenery reflected on the clear lake surface; in the fall, the leaves turn golden, often framed alongside snow-dusted ridges; in winter, the bare branches, combined with the distant snow-capped peaks and the morning mist on the lake, create a deeply moving scene. At sunrise, when the lake is calm, the snow-capped mountains and the tree's reflection appear together in the water, making it the golden hour for photography. As a highly iconic natural view along the lakeshore, it can be admired from many angles along the bank, offering visitors an excellent experience for photography and nature walks.Wanaka · 1.1 km from downtown
Wānaka Lavender Farm
Wānaka Lavender Farm is located near Wānaka. Every summer, the vast lavender fields enter their peak blooming season, with rows of purple flowers spreading out against a backdrop of surrounding mountains, creating a visually stunning natural landscape. You can often hear the buzzing of bees among the flower fields, as the farm keeps its own beehives and produces various types of pure, high-quality honey. Beyond the flower fields, the park also features gardens that change with the seasons. Tulips and daffodils bloom in spring, while roses, sunflowers, and dahlias bloom in succession during the summer. The pasture area is home to animals such as alpacas, sheep, and goats, which you can interact with up close. After your tour, you can take a break at the tea room to taste the signature lavender honey ice cream or herbal tea. The shop also offers their own honey and various lavender-derived products for purchase. Even if you visit outside of the peak blooming season, the seasonal flower views and the distant snow-capped mountain scenery still provide a relaxing strolling experience for visitors.Wanaka · 4.5 km from downtown
Shotting Tranning Playground
Southern Safari Shooting Range in Cardrona, New Zealand is a unique outdoor experience that attracts shooting sports enthusiasts and visitors seeking novel experiences. Set in a picturesque valley and surrounded by magnificent natural landscapes, the shooting range provides visitors with an exciting and safe shooting environment. Southern Safari Shooting Range offers a variety of shooting activities suitable for participants of different levels. From beginners to experienced shooters, everyone can try various types of firearms under the guidance of professional instructors. In addition to shooting activities, the shooting range also focuses on safety and education. Professional staff will provide detailed safety instructions and technical training to each participant, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the fun of shooting in a safe environment. In addition, the shooting range's geographical location also provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Whether it is a shooting enthusiast or a nature lover, Southern Safari Shooting Range can provide them with an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, learning and natural beauty.Cardrona · 11.1 km from Wanaka
Roys Peak Track
The famous walking trail in Wanaka, New Zealand, with rugged and steep mountain roads, all sand roads, and no guardrails, is a very original trail. Climbing to the top for an overview of the overall situation, the mountains and mountains are in sight, and the blue sea and blue sky are connected, which is very beautiful. As the zigzag road continues to climb, the panorama of Lake Wanaka unfolds in front of your eyes little by little. When you climb to the top of Roy's Peak at an altitude of 1578 meters, the epic mountain and lake scenery will unfold like a picture scroll.Glendhu Bay · 5.8 km from Wanaka
RealNZ | TSS Earnslaw Queenstown Cruise
Known as the "Princess on the Lake", the TSS Earnslaw steamship (TSSEarnslaw) was born in 1912 - a golden age in the history of steamships including the world-famous cruise ship "Titanic" . Today, as a coal-fired ferry, she has sailed for 100 years and is a fascinating sight on Lake Wakatipu, transporting you back in time and enjoying the gorgeous European style of the early 20th century. During the voyage, you can lean on the railings on the deck and overlook the beautiful lakes and mountains of Queenstown. You can also climb the watchtower to steal the superb steering skills of the captain. You can also sneak into the steam boiler room to understand the operation principle of the steam engine. △ Take a steamer ride on Lake Wakatipu, where you can enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery and the serenity of the lake △ On board, visit the engine room, sailor's cabin art gallery, and listen to songs accompanied by a piano for a taste of turn-of-the-century elegance △ Upon arrival at Walter Peak Highlands Ranch, you can see and feed the farm animals up close, participate in a sheep shearing show and a working sheepdog showQueenstown · 52.8 km from Wanaka
NZONE Skydive Queenstown
Gold tier trial period: October to April of the following year NZONE Skydive Queenstown in New Zealand 1. Tandem skydiving origin experience: New Zealand tandem skydiving started in Queenstown in 1990. Complete the challenge at this legendary starting point. 2. New Zealand tourism awards certification: A skydiving brand awarded by the New Zealand tourism awards, ensuring both safety and experience with double authority. 3. Queenstown core view aerial perspective: Free fall to enjoy the "S"-shaped bay of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables mountain range and the panoramic view of Queenstown. 4. 360° unobstructed "God's-eye view": Aerial panoramic vision, far surpassing cable cars and viewing platforms, truly seeing all the highlights of Queenstown at once. 5. Multiple height options suitable for all ages: Offers various skydiving height choices, available for ages 6 and up. 6. Tandem skydiving for beginners: Professional instructors provide one-on-one guidance throughout the experience, no prior skydiving experience required. 7. Complies with New Zealand safety standards: equipment, processes, and instructor qualifications have all met the high standards of New Zealand's aviation and safety regulatory system certification. 8. Scenic flight + free fall + dual gliding experience: First enjoy a scenic fixed-wing flight in Queenstown, followed by the thrill of high-speed free fall, then glide smoothly under the parachute to admire the scenery. 9. Free shuttle service in Queenstown downtown: Located in the heart of Queenstown, offering complimentary transfers year-round (weather permitting) for more flexible itinerary arrangements.Queenstown · 52.6 km from Wanaka
Cardrona Alpine Resort
Cardrona Alpine Resort, located between Queenstown and Wānaka on New Zealand's South Island, is a premier winter destination for families, learners and freestyle enthusiasts. Now New Zealand's largest ski area (615 ha including the new Soho Basin), Cardrona offers varied terrain with over half the slopes suited to beginners and intermediates. Gentle learner zones and wide blue runs make progression easy and enjoyable. The resort is also home to the Southern Hemisphere's most extensive terrain park facilities, including multiple parks, two halfpipes, and a world-class slopestyle course. With stunning alpine views, modern lifts, on-mountain dining, and full-service facilities, Cardrona delivers an unforgettable snow experience for all levels..Cardrona · 24.3 km from Wanaka
Experiences you can't miss in Wanaka
Featured Cultural experiences in Wanaka
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![Queenstown Glenorchy half-day tour [Lord of the Rings filming location/Paradise Valley/Red Boat Shed]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0351p12000etyvcvu56C1_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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Featured Food & drink in Wanaka
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![Queenstown Skyline mountaintop view restaurant Stratosfare buffet | Window seat with view includes round-trip cable car [Luge ride available for purchase]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0356412000sotjs1m0D18_C_568_320.jpg?_fr=wc)
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Featured Day tours in Wanaka
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Featured Spa & wellness in Wanaka
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Free things to do in Wanaka
Wānaka
Wanaka · 864m from downtownLake Wānaka
Minaret Bay · 18.5 km from WanakaThatWanakaTree
Wanaka · 1.1 km from downtown
Rippon
Wanaka · 2.1 km from downtownRoys Peak Track
Glendhu Bay · 5.8 km from Wanaka
Waterfull Creeks
Wanaka · 1.7 km from downtown
Cromwell
Cromwell · 39.1 km from Wanaka
Milford Sound / Piopiotahi
Milford Sound · 97.8 km from Wanaka
Glenorchy
Glenorchy · 61.1 km from Wanaka
Queenstown Gardens
Queenstown · 53 km from Wanaka
More ways to travel from Wanaka
Private Tours in Wanaka
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Group Tours in Wanaka
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What travelers say about Wanaka
J OJanuary 8, 2026
5.0
After my NZONE in Queenstown was canceled due to high winds, I didn't give up and switched to SKYDIVE. The weather was fantastic that day, the staff were warm and friendly, and I even chatted with strangers who were jumping from the same plane.
The view from a different perspective was amazing. Because I chose the highest altitude, I was the last person to jump. But aside from being really nervous the moment I jumped, the floating experience was incredibly fun! 🥳
Skydive Wanaka
jing0lingJanuary 23, 2024
5.0
wanaka is a nice place that can travel with family . Kids and Parents will love that and the people there is so nice and friendly.
Wānaka
Lavender and SunMarch 11, 2022
5.0
Created by giant glaciers 10,000 years ago, Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea sit side by side, separated by a small strip of silvery white land called The Neck. Surrounded by stunning mountains, the two lakes have beautiful pebble beaches and are a popular attraction for locals and tourists, especially during the long, warm summers.
Lake Wānaka
tt梦幻小妖January 23, 2020
5.0
Nature is really amazing. After watching the star chasers, there is a lake like this and a lonely tree. No matter how you take pictures, it looks like an oil painting. There are also towering mountains around.
ThatWanakaTree
王海娃子November 19, 2019
4.0
Wanaka is a place that combines snow-capped mountains and lakes, and various extreme sports and entertainment. Little did I know that in addition to this, Wanaka also has a large lavender farm. Although the time is not right, you can imagine the scene of blooming lavender.
Wānaka Lavender Farm
🎀彡🐾May 21, 2020
5.0
Roy Peak Trail is a mountain hiking route. The whole trail has some flat areas and some very difficult areas. In short, it is more suitable for medium-stamina hiking. In particular, there is a wading process, which is very interesting and thrilling, and it is worth experiencing.
Roys Peak Track
网站老张October 10, 2026
5.0
A very unique steamship, still providing excellent service despite being over a century old. There are Chinese staff on board, and the buffet restaurant on the other side is quite good. Enjoy a relaxed and pleasant time in Queenstown.
RealNZ | TSS Earnslaw Queenstown Cruise
道治March 11, 2025
5.0
Skydiving is super fun, 15,000 feet, the free fall feels like life is free!
The package comes with a handheld camera, with photos and videos.
After the jump, it will be sent directly to your email for you to download.
It takes about 20 minutes to drive to the base.
NZONE Skydive Queenstown
Stacey KamNovember 2, 2023
4.0
The first time I skied, I contributed to New Zealand. Joined the beginner skiing package and almost all of them were called skiing down.
Cardrona Alpine Resort
