A Localβs Guide to Wanaka
If Queenstown is the adventure-mad extrovert of the two lakes, Wanaka is its quieter, equally stunning sibling, the kind of place where you can spend the morning on an alpine hike and the afternoon lying beside a lake framed by mountains, all without needing to fight a crowd for either.
We're lucky enough to call WΔnaka home, and we've picked up a few favourites along the way. Here's our honest, no-fluff guide to making the most of it.
Start Your Day at the Lake
Wanakaβs whole personality revolves around its lake, so it makes sense to start there. Head down to the lakefront in the early morning before the day-trippers arrive, and you'll often have the place almost to yourself. Grab a coffee from one of the cafes along Ardmore Street and just watch the water, on a still day, the reflections of the surrounding mountains are unreal.
If you're feeling energetic, hire a paddleboard or kayak and get out on the water itself. Lake Wanaka is famously clean and clear, and paddling out towards Ruby Island on a calm morning is one of those simple experiences that sticks with you long after the trip's over.
The Hike Everyone Talks About (For Good Reason)
You've probably heard of Roy's Peak, it's become something of an Instagram icon, and for good reason. The views from the top over the lake and surrounding mountains are genuinely spectacular. Just know what you're signing up for: it's a solid few hours of steady uphill walking, so bring good shoes, plenty of water, and start early to beat both the heat and the crowds.
If you want something similar but with fewer people, Isthmus Peak is a brilliant alternative nearby, similarly steep, similarly rewarding, but with a fraction of the foot traffic.
For something more relaxed, the Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain Track is a shorter walk with a genuinely impressive payoff for the effort involved, perfect if you want great views without committing your whole day.
Eat Like You Live Here
WΔnaka punches well above its weight for food, and it's official: several of our local favourites picked up recognition in the inaugural Michelin Guide New Zealand in 2026, including a Michelin star for Kika. We'll be doing a full deep-dive blog on WΔnaka's Michelin moment soon, but for now, know that this is a food scene worth taking seriously.
Kai Whakapai on the lakefront is a great all-day spot for a relaxed breakfast or lunch with a view. For something a bit more special in the evening, Francesca's Italian Kitchen is consistently excellent (and a Michelin Bib Gourmand pick), book ahead if you can.
If you want another Michelin-recognised option, Muttonbird is a cosy, funky upstairs spot.
And if you're driving through Cardrona on your way in or out of town, the Cardrona Hotel is an institution. It's a historic pub with a genuinely great menu, worth the detour even if you're not staying nearby.
Beyond the Obvious
Once you've ticked off the lake and the big hikes, there's plenty more to explore. Puzzling World is a bit of local kitsch, part maze, part illusion museum, and it's a fun couple of hours, especially if you've got kids with you.
For something different, head out to Rippon Vineyard. The wine is great, but honestly, the view over the vines to the lake and mountains beyond is worth the visit on its own.
If you're keen to get further off the beaten track, a drive up the Cardrona Valley or out towards Glendhu Bay rewards you with some of the quietest, most dramatic scenery in the region, minimal crowds, maximum payoff.
Our Best Piece of Advice
Honestly? Don't try to cram too much in. Wanaka rewards a slower pace, it's a place to actually stop, breathe, and take in the scenery rather than rush between ticking off a list. Base yourself somewhere comfortable, plan a couple of key activities each day, and leave room to just enjoy being there.
Looking for the perfect place to stay while you explore Wanaka? Browse our range of holiday homes in the area and find your home base for the trip.