Wanaka Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in Apr)

Lake Wanaka in Autumn

#fallishere Lake Wanaka in Autumn is spectacular. Wānaka is a beautiful destination in New Zealand's South Island. To fully enjoy it, simply bring a sandwich and sit on the grass by the lake – it's a serene way to appreciate life. “That Wanaka Tree” is a viral tree 😂 The tree itself is quite busy even in autumn so be prepared to wait for a photo. There are no charges but also no seating near the tree. The landscape surrounding it seems to make it even more special. Wanaka is beautiful as an overall.

Half-Day Kayak Tour on Lake Wanaka

The team at Paddle Wanaka are easy to deal with and can cater to your needs whether it be a guided tour or you simply want to do your own thing. We highly recommend doing The Tiki Tour if you’re keen to do a guided tour and learn about the area. Depending on the wind direction, you will either paddle from the lakeshore and at the end be picked up by boat, or travel out to your start point by boat and paddle back to the lakeshore. The safety briefing before you set off is very thorough and you’re in safe hands. Our guide Austin was really knowledgeable and we enjoyed the stories he told us about Bull Island and Ruby Island, he shared several Maori legends with us as well. The information about Lake Wanaka and other lakes and rivers in the region was also interesting. We had an afternoon tea stop on Ruby Island before heading back to the lakeshore. The Tiki Tour is definitely worth doing. Thanks Austin and Chris for a great afternoon on the lake. #awesomepic #couplestrip #deliciousfood #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

This picturesque tree that lives in the wanaka lake in New Zealand is always worth taking a picture of!

Relative to the prosperity of Queenstown, I prefer Wanaka's peace and quiet. It is hidden between Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea and the Southern Alps. It is a dream town like a paradise. Walking in the windy and sunny days, strolling along the pebble beach, listening to the lake's sloppy, deciduous sand, even doing nothing, looking at the lonely tree in a daze, is a pleasant thing. Wanaka is the place I have been most obsessed with, because in addition to completely letting go of my own self, listening to the voice of my heart, I also understand that doing nothing can be so justified, people can not help but be drunk in time.

Wanaka - Serenity like no other.

Wanaka is a gorgeous skii town in the Otago region of New Zealand. With breathtaking glaciers and a back drop of the Mount Aspiring Alps it's a must visit for any travellers looking for a slice of bliss. Surrounded by nature walks and rugged hiking trails, there's plenty to do and see for any adventure seekers. With so much untouched natural beauty to look at, its easy to forget the hidden gem that is the Wanaka township and the great community vibes that the whole area brings. Will certainly be coming back next visit to New Zealand! #new Zealand Travel #hiking #naturalpark #tripblazers #snow Mountain

Fall Colours by the Lake

Visit Lake Wanaka during autumn for an immersive fall experience! The vibrant autumn colours are stunning to say the least. Look for the lonely tree, an icon of this gem. No matter where you look, the scenery is gorgeous. Plan this in your itinerary when visiting New Zealand! #passionpassport

The Wanaka tree is a bit of a legend on Instagram, even having its own hashtag #thatwanakatree.

I regret not staying a night in Wanaka, this is the life I want

😓The thing I regret the most about this family trip to New Zealand is not spending a night in Wanaka. I made the mistake of staying three nights in Queenstown, and I'm really crying over my own stupidity! I hope no one makes the same mistake as me❌ Personally, I'm not very fond of Queenstown. To me, it feels more like a tourist distribution center, quite commercialized. Wanaka, just an hour away, 🥰really made me experience the super chill life of the locals! 🚘The drive starts with many Z-shaped bends, so everyone must be careful! There are many lookouts along the way where you can stop to take photos, the scenery is spectacular, and there's the famous 📍Cardrona Bra Fence to check in at. 🌊Lying flat by the beautiful lake and basking in the sun, I can't imagine how blissful it is! There are more foreigners here, some walking, reading, lying flat, walking dogs, daydreaming... You can also try various activities, such as boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and cycling. 🌟Recommended check-in spots: ✅The Lone Tree🌲: 📍Wanaka tree, a very famous spot, no need to say more! There's plenty of parking 🅿️ nearby! ✅Lakeside Children's Playground: Right next to the Lone Tree, a paradise for kids to play, while parents can watch the lake view 👀! ✅Puzzling World: 📍Puzzling world, a place that combines fun and intelligence, with various mazes, illusion exhibitions, and interactive games, suitable for both adults and children! ✅Family Hiking: 📍Lake Wanaka Outlet Track, about an hour one way, 2-3 hours round trip, with parking at the entrance. There's a row of restaurants and cafes ☕ by the lakeside in the town, where you can enjoy delicious seafood while admiring the lake view, how wonderful! 🌟🌟🌟Thank you Wanaka, for letting me enjoy the lake and mountain scenery and the leisurely life of the locals, and for an unforgettable family time!

Snippets Of Attractions In Christchurch

New Zealand is a dream destination for many who loves the outdoors, mountain backdrops and instaworthy shots. There are 2 islands one in the North Island and one in the south island. Christchurch is a place located in the south and caters more for the adventure seekers who loves beautiful hikes, overlooking the mountain backdrops and also the many quiet soothing scenic walks. There are a few popular attraction in Christchurch are the gorgeous looking Mountcook and Lake Tekapo, The wanaka tree with the backdrop of the lake, the tasman glacier walk and many more. Before heading to Christchurch, it is recommended to plan your roadtrip to ensure you travel plans are efficient and you do not spend too much time on the road. #bucketlistreboot #newzealand #christchurch #naturescapes #naturalwonders #mustvisit #mountains #hikes #scenic #holidayvacation

Most famous tree in New Zealand!

One of the most Insta-famous and most photographed tree in New Zealand is That Wanaka Tree, a lonely willow tree in Lake Wanaka! Many tourists and photographers gather here at sunrise and sunset to capture this beautiful lone tree sitting in a lake with stunning mountain backdrop. It is really a unique sight to behold! This tree is located right in the town of Wanaka, in the South Island of New Zealand. It’s a small little town about an hour’s drive away from Queenstown. While you’re there, you can take your time to enjoy this unique little tree, but if you prefer to stay away from the crowds, you can take a stroll further down along the lake. I noticed there weren’t much people who did that so it was quieter and more peaceful, and you can enjoy the scenery of the snow mountains in the distant. #newzealand #unforgettableexperiences #scenicspotguide #thatwanakatree

The Iconic Tree of Lake Wanaka

Said to be the most photographed tree in New Zealand, I am not surprised about this statement because once you are there, you will see a huge crowd of people with their cameras trying to take photo of this tree! Even so, I would still recommend everyone to visit the place because the scenery here is really really beautiful! It might be touristy, but don’t ever let them stop you from coming because you’re gonna lose out on an opportunity to see something amazing! This is also one of the few spots of New Zealand where you do not have to hike a lot to reach the main view point of the location. The tree is merely a few minutes walk away from the carpark, making it easily accessible to everyone of all ages! Apart from the tree, the scenery around here are all really good spots to take some wonderful photos to bring home as memories too. Leave at least 30-mins to an hour when you are coming here, to fully immerse yourself in this wonderful spot! #hiking #nationalpark #travelinspiration #scenicspotguide #springholiday #naturalwonders

It's too chill, it's the lifestyle I've been dreaming of

Most of the time when I travel, I take pictures of the scenery, but this time when I was traveling in New Zealand, I saw a lot of people in a very relaxed state, and I couldn't help but want to capture it. Our trip in New Zealand is still quite special forces, we can't lie down on the mountain top like them to read books, they have lived my ideal vacation state, I'm tired of saying the word envy.

Most iconic track - Roy’s Peak New Zealand

One of the most famous Instagram locations in New Zealand is Roys Peak overlooking Lake Wanaka with awe-inspiring views of Mount Aspiring and other peaks of the central South Island. Getting to the peak is a picturesque hike through alpine meadows and tussocks grasslands The Roys Peak Track is one of the many hiking trails of Wanaka that one shouldn't miss while in New Zealand. Wanaka is also one of the chief skiing locations of the Southern Hemisphere (and a chance to escape the heat of summer of the Northern Hemisphere).#2023travelwish #awesomepic

Challenging & Rewarding

One of the most famous Instagrammable places in South Island, New Zealand. The paths are pretty well maintained and the view on the way up is stunning. Great challenging but rewarding hike, magnificent 360 panorama views from the summit! Would recommend trying this peak if you are reasonably fit. #spooktaculartrip #tripblazers #awesomepic #fallingforfall #couplestrip #urbanexplorer #bucketlistreboot #newzealand #newzealandtravel #mountain

The Most Instagram Worthy Peak in NZ!

Roys Peak, located near Wanaka is rated as one of the best hikes in New Zealand. It has one of the most Instagram worthy views at the peak and after I saw countless photos on Instagram, I knew I had to do this hike! The whole hike took me almost 8 hours to complete and I would rate it as quite a difficult hike. The journey up was long, monotonous and always at a constant incline. But I assure you when you reach the top, the stunning views will make everything worthwhile! I reached the peak in time for sunset and managed to capture an Instagram worthy photo of the golden sun rays shining on the peak. If you are planning to hike till night, be sure to bring along a flashlight as the road down will be in complete darkness. #momentssg #hiking #unforgettableexperiences #scenicspotguide

One of the most iconic views on the South Island of New Zealand: Roy's Peak. Travel tip: Start hiking at 4am if you want to catch sunrise on top of the mountain AND beat the heat (I couldn't image doing this hike under the hot sun).

Distorted Visual Perception - Puzzling World

Passing through the town of Wanaka on the South Island, it is a must-visit for tour groups, about 1 kilometer away from Lake Wanaka is Puzzling World. This is an attraction suitable for all ages, with over a hundred thousand visitors each year. Its exterior features leaning and swaying towers, which aptly represent the essence of this place. The facilities inside are all about bewildering your vision and senses, leaving you puzzled yet amused. The humorous ancient Roman wall paintings beside the restroom make for a great photo op, as if you're openly using the toilet with the ancients. Since 1973, Puzzling World has become a landmark attraction in the south, a unique world-class destination. Stuart Landsborough's Puzzling World is the only theme park in the world filled with quirky content! These bizarre and wonderful buildings are perfect models for your photographs. The unique café, maze center, and gift shop also offer a distinctive experience. The bathroom at the maze center is New Zealand's most entertaining public restroom, guaranteed to keep your camera clicking. All these facilities are open free of charge. The Illusion Room, which requires an admission fee, will surely bring you a surreal, dreamlike sensation. Every room you enter will make you feel as if you're in a dream, unable to distinguish reality from illusion. The Great Maze is also an interesting challenge, equipped with emergency exits for those with limited patience to enter and exit at will. It is the world's first 'modern style' maze, a true test of visitors' skills. Regardless of age or budget, Puzzling World is definitely the ideal choice for all visitors. Come and see the leaning towers - four slanted towers and another astonishingly inclined Leaning Tower of Wanaka at 53 degrees! Why not step into the Think Tank Cafe, where you can enjoy delicious food while challenging yourself with various intellectual games on the table. Then, don't forget to visit our restroom, where there's an extra room imitating an ancient Roman style bath - a perfect photo opportunity! How about experiencing the Illusion Rooms? Here, you can escape the gaze of Einstein, watch water flow uphill, see yourself shrink, and marvel at impossible art. From a brand new, fully immersive 'Fluorescent Room' to a room where the faces of 168 celebrities seem to follow you, a room where you appear to shrink or grow, and a room where objects seem to slide upwards, as well as a large exhibition hall filled with incredible illusion sculptures, these rooms must be seen to be believed and will challenge your perception of reality. The outdoor Great Maze is designed to encourage problem-solving, physical exercise, and fun. Puzzling World invented the modern style 3D maze, but don't worry, emergency exits are provided for those with limited time or patience!

Find the exit, enjoy the fun of adventure! Wanaka Maze World immersive maze experience

Wanaka Maze World is like a magical maze. Once you step into it, you will forget the way back, as if you are in a world full of mysteries. There are new surprises waiting to be discovered in every corner. Here, you need to find the exit, solve the puzzles, and enjoy the fun of adventure. Wanaka Maze World brings an immersive experience😱 Wanaka Maze World has built a mysterious maze. You will get lost in it, dancing with time. Walking through the winding paths, through the lush fog, you will find different surprises waiting for you at every turn. This place brings extraordinary experiences and memories🌿💫 Come to Wanaka Maze World and enjoy the fun of adventure. Step by step closer to the exit, feel the acceleration and release of the heartbeat, this is a wonderful game. Moreover, Wanaka Maze World is also an immersive playground, providing more opportunities for exploration and fun🧩✨ Enter the magical space of Wanaka Maze World, immerse yourself in it, explore puzzles and surprises. Embark on the journey of Wanaka Maze World and enjoy the fun of adventure to the fullest!😱

Here Reality and Illusion Collide

#christmastrip In the stunning backdrop of Wanaka, Puzzling World is a whimsical wonderland that challenges perceptions and sparks the imagination. The unique blend of optical illusions, mind-bending puzzles, and quirky attractions makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking an interactive and playful experience. Step into the SculptIllusion Gallery, where three-dimensional art comes to life. The mind-boggling sculptures and interactive displays create optical illusions that defy logic and leave visitors questioning reality. It's a feast for the senses and a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Embark on a journey through the Great Maze, an outdoor labyrinth that tests both navigation skills and teamwork. With twists, turns, and dead ends, the maze is a fun-filled challenge that guarantees laughter and friendly competition among friends and family. The Leaning Tower of Wanaka is an architectural marvel that seemingly defies gravity. Capture the perfect photo that plays with perspective as you pose beside this optical illusion masterpiece. It's a testament to the artistry and creativity that defines Puzzling World. Inside the Illusion Rooms, reality becomes a subjective concept. Be prepared to question your senses as you encounter rooms that challenge perceptions of size, shape, and gravity. The interactive nature of these exhibits adds an extra layer of delight to the overall experience. For a moment of respite, visit the café adorned with peculiar puzzles and optical illusions. Enjoy a cup of coffee surrounded by mind-bending decor, extending the immersive experience beyond the attractions. Puzzling World Wanaka is a captivating blend of entertainment and mental stimulation, ensuring visitors leave both amused and perplexed in the best possible way

The tranquil lakeside of Wanaka Roy Bay.

At Wanaka's Roys Bay, I saw a lake with distant mountains, clear water, and sunshine shining down on it, and tourists resting and playing in the water under the shade of trees. I felt like I had arrived in paradise. Seagulls, ducks, and people swam together in the water, while on the beach, people enjoyed the bliss of idleness. Everything was so comfortable and pleasant. On the way from Queenstown to Mount Cook, Wanaka is a place where you can stay for a day if time permits. In addition to enjoying the tranquility at Roy's Bay, you can also visit the nearby popular attraction, Lonely Tree, or spend half a day at Puzzling World with your children. For those who want to hike and enjoy the scenery, you can take a short one-hour hike at Mount Iron.