Lake Wanaka - a scenic gem
PHOTO: Lake Wanaka
Wanaka and itʼs surrounding region has to be one of the most popular areas in New Zealand for backpackers and independent travellers. The range of activities on offer coupled with excellent accommodation, transport links and gastronomic delights make Wanaka a truly sought after destination.
If you are travelling to Wanaka for the first time, you will be struck by the sheer beauty of the area as you arrive. Blessed with an amazing alpine panorama and within easy access to several ski fields and national parks, Lake Wanaka, New Zealandʼs fourth largest lake, is a scenic gem.
The town itself is a special place to visit. Cafeʼs, restaurants and bars enjoy front-seat views of the beauty that surrounds the region. Small boutique shops offer all sorts of gifts and delights with plenty of merchandise and food supplied locally.
Due to Wanakaʼs awe inspiring geographical setting, activities to suit every taste are available. Activities include but are not limited to; abseiling, aerobatic flights, boat charters, deep canyoning, gliding, golf, guided walking, fishing, four wheel drive adventures, horse trekking, hunting, jet boating, kayaking, aquatic pursuits, mountaineering, mountain biking, paragliding, parapenting, rafting, rock climbing, skiing, Nordic skiing, heli-skiing, snowbording, tandem skydiving, Trout fishing, swimming, water skiing, windsurfing and wine tasting.
There is also plenty to see with museums, art & craft trails, scenic tours, flights and gardens all within striking distance of this pretty town.
If you enjoy hiking, the Mount Aspiring National Park (which is part of the Te Wahipounamu South West New Zealand World Heritage Area) is right on Wanakaʼs doorstep. The third largest national park in New Zealand, Mt Aspiring National Park is one of the most spectacular pristine wilderness areas anywhere in the world. From this park you can enjoy plenty of walking and tramping and every age and ability is catered to. Try the Rob Roy valley walk or the Aspiring hut walk which are just a few of the spectacular walks on offer.
If you enjoy skiing, Wanaka is just 20 minutes from the hugely popular Mount Cardrona and Treble Cone ski resorts. If you are new to skiing, Cardrona has excellent facilities and gentle slopes. Cardrona also has more advanced slopes and some fantastic off piste skiing available to those more adventurous types.
Transport to the mountains and ski and snowboard hire are all available from Wanaka. It is always good to ask around about ski deals that are available. Some companies offer fantastic all-inclusive packages and are very competitive.
If you are looking to move on after your visit, Wanakaʼs central South Island location means you will be well placed for travelling to the West Coast, Mt Cook National Park and Fiordland. A leisurely drive to Queenstown takes an hour and a half and scheduled flights link Wanaka airport with domestic airline services in Queenstown. Daily scheduled coach and shuttle buses link Wanaka Region to the West Coast, Christchurch, Dunedin and Mt Cook.
For more information
Lake Wanaka i-SITE Visitor Centre
The Log Cabin, Lakefront, 100 Ardmore Street, Wanaka
Ph 03 4431 233
Email: lakewanaka@i-SITE.org