Things to Do in Wanaka

Take a Water Taxi and explore Mou Waho Island. Discover a hidden lake which contains its own island, forming a Russian doll of islands and lakes. Meet the Weka, an adorable and curious bird that is partial to meeting humans.

Living a rich life is about experiences, not stuff – our spectacular backyard is full of adventure and we want to share it with you. Get out of your comfort zone and be rewarded as we conquer the highest waterfall cable climb in the world. Our Level 1 climb involves approximately 45mins of physical climbing and 4 bridge crossings. Our Via ferrata tour is perfect for those who love the outdoors, waterfalls and beautiful places. It is suitable for beginners, families and hesitant adventurers with basic fitness. No experience required. Your tour starts at the waterfall where your friendly guide will fit your safety gear and teach you how to use the equipment before starting the climb. You will be climbing on steel ladder rungs and crossing wire bridges to finish at a beautiful picnic spot. We then walk down a mountain trail and back to the base.   If you are more adventurous and are looking to explore more in this incredible vertical world, we recommend our intermediate Level 2 climb.

Experience a truly thrilling freefall over incredible natural beauty on this skydiving activity in Wanaka. See New Zealand from a totally unique perspective.

Fly from Treble Cone with a professional tandem paragliding pilot. Admire stunning views of Mt Aspiring, the twin waterfalls, and the Wanaka lakes.

Experience this one-of-a-kind wine tasting with a fascinating Māori culture spin! Learn about Māori history and their experiences of this region while sampling many wonderful wines. Of the wineries listed we will visit 2, if you have a preference please let me know.

With this boat trip on Lake Wanaka, you'll drink in its stunning landscapes and take a walk around either Ruby, Stevensons, or Mou Wah Island. You choose!

Strap yourself to a beautiful stranger and experience New Zealand’s most spectacular view from 9,000, 12,000 or 15,000-feet. View up to six lakes, the rugged Southern Alps & Mount Cook and experience 25 to 60-seconds of freefall at speeds up to 200kph.

On this small group tour, we'll pick you up anywhere in Wanaka at your preferred time. We've created this trip due to high demand for an easy e-bike ride with a focus on wine and food. After a quick 20-minute orientation on the e-bike, you're ready to roll. We've got your back with first aid kits, maps, and a spare bike. While it's not guided, we're nearby if you need help. Explore food and drink options, enjoy the flat, wide trail – great for beginners. It's a 6-hour trip, with about 2 hours of easy biking. We take care of the driving so you can savor the wine in style. Just a short 35-minute ride from Wanaka takes you to the unique Bannockburn landscape and their superb Pinot Noirs.

Discover one of the most beautiful areas of New Zealand's South Island with this boat trip on the stunning Lake Wanaka.

Experience the most stunning bike ride in Wānaka. Meander along the river trails from Hāwea and follow both the Hāwea and Clutha rivers all the way to Wānaka. Grade 1-2, family friendly riding.

Welcome to a Wine Lover's Paradise! Join us as we embark on a wine tasting - sightseeing adventure like no other visiting wineries around Wanaka - Pisa - Cromwell - Bannockburn - Bendigo. It is a day full of new mates, scenic beauty, a beautiful gourmet lunch platter and some seriously good wine. Meet the winemakers who are pouring their passions and get an insider's look into everything that is involved in creating the perfect glass of wine from vineyard to bottle. Living the Dream Tours is a wine tour company that encourages guests to unwind for an unforgettable day and let us do all the work. It's not just a tour; it's a connection with the artisans who make the magic happen.

Visit one of the most special places in Wanaka with this excursion to Mou Waho Island. Some of the most beautiful views of South Island await you.

Experience a unique climbing adventure that will take you into the heart of a waterfall exposing hidden pools, spectacular mountain views, and thrilling suspension bridge crossings.

If you are looking to include New Zealand Māori culture and a Welcome to Wānaka/Queenstown and to your special day this Māori welcome is a unique and special memory to include in your wedding day. Because it is personalised we can discuss what best suits your needs, from experience it is ideally suited prior to the Bride, Groom and Wedding party entering the reception, or at a gathering with all guests and family prior to the wedding day itself. The Bridge and Groom get a bone carving and the guests and wedding party get an experience they will remember in your wedding forever.

Experience the awe-inspiring glacial landscapes at your own pace with your bike rental and enjoy convenient transportation from Wanaka!

Discover Stevensons Island on Lake Wanaka on a shared cruise and a guided nature walk. See some of Wanaka's most spectacular views and benefit from outstanding photo opportunities.

A lovely, easy grade guided bike ride following another one of Wanaka’s beautiful rivers. Crystal blue water, endless mountain vistas and easy pedalling, make this a great trip for people wanting some gentle exercise. A great trip for the whole family. We'll provide all the necessary equipment, transport, and friendly, qualified, local guide.

Travel with the peace and comfort of knowing that, should you need assistance on your trip, Civitatis has your back - don't let anything spoil your trip!

Check out the iconic, unique, and award-winning attraction that has fascinated all ages since 1973. Engage in a fun, challenging, and sensory experience at Wanaka's world-famous Puzzling World.

Wanaka fishing charters offer a unique and interesting experience for several reasons: 1. Stunning Scenery: Lake Wanaka is set in the picturesque Southern Alps, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your fishing adventure. 2. Diverse Fish Species: The lake is home to a variety of fish, including brown and rainbow trout, and salmon making it an attractive destination for anglers of all skill levels. 3. Experienced Guides: charters provide an experienced fishing guide who knows the lake well and can offer valuable tips and insights to enhance your fishing experience. 4. Wildlife Sightings: In addition to fishing, you may have the chance to see local wildlife like birds and perhaps even glimpses of the elusive native bird, the takahe. 6. Relaxing Environment: Lake Wanaka provides a serene and tranquil environment, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely day of fishing, relaxation, and appreciation of nature.

Relax with a glass of local wine or beer and bask in the evening light on a happy hour cruise on Lake Wanaka. Take in amazing views of the lake, enjoy some snacks, and have fun with fellow travelers.

This is the Wānaka most locals have never seen. We take you well off the beaten track exploring private backroads high into the mountains of West Wānaka Station. The perfect mix of wide open walking trails, alpine meadows, jaw-dropping scenery, and high country farming life. You’ll love helping out and learning about our predator control conservation project along the way too. A relaxed picnic lunch awaits atop Lookout Hill. Don’t feel up to walking all day? No problem, we provide 4WD support so jump in any time and enjoy the view and friendly banter with your guide. A safe, fun and active day of classic kiwi adventure the whole family can enjoy together.

Enjoy a 35min Scenic helicopter flight including a 10min glacier/snow landing and spectacular views of the Southern Alps. Flights confirm with a minimum of 2 paying adults.

What makes this tour unique is that we embrace the environment/Kaitiakitanga we are protectors and guardians of the land and reducing carbon emissions through e-biking and combine past (Māori history) and present (wines of Wanaka). Along this E-Bike tour you will get an insight into the Māori footprint and history from many hundreds of years ago of the beautiful Otago region along with combining the wonderful present being the beautiful wines of this region. To give you the authentic New Zealand experience in the beautiful Central Otago, South Island region.

Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic adventure activities with some of the world’s most beautiful scenery as a backdrop. Marvel at the power and remarkable maneuverability of a high-speed jet boat.

The ‘Introduction To Rock Climbing’ is our most popular trip. You get the opportunity to experience outdoor rock climbing in a safe and fun way, focusing on maximum time actually climbing, whilst learning safe practices and good technique along the way. It is ideal for those who have never climbed before, or only on an indoor wall. The climbing can range from easy to challenging and we keep the group sizes small to ensure everyone has a great time and is challenged at their own level. Our qualified instructors/guides will take you to the most suitable venue in the beautiful Matukituki Valley near Wanaka.

An Official NZ Great Ride - 42km of purpose built trail. Bike, E-bike or Gravel Bike from Cromwell to historic Clyde, meet the shuttle and return back to Cromwell in our luxury Shuttle.

Why Choose Catch a Fish? Eco-Friendly Fishing: Quiet, fume-free trips powered by our electric trolling motor. Expert Guidance: Led by a seasoned skipper and biologist with over a decade of experience. Stunning Locations: Fish the pristine waters of Lake Wānaka, Lake Hāwea, Lake Wakatipu Queenstown and beyond. Custom Fishing Adventures: Flexible itineraries to fish anywhere in New Zealand, from lakes to the sea. Top-Quality Gear: Premium rods, reels, and advanced downrigger techniques included. Small Group Charters: Personalized experiences for 2–6 people. We need a minimum of two bookings to do this trip. If we have not reached minimum capacity, we will be in touch with you 24 hours before the trip.

Enjoy a birds-eye-view of the stunning Southern Alps of New Zealand on this 1hr tour. See Mt Aspiring up close and personal. View the multitude of glaciers in the region.

Immerse yourself in the environment and truly connect with nature Learn climbing and canyoning in one tour Enjoy stunning mountain and lake views. Get up close and personal with waterfalls Feel an adrenaline rush as you rappel down 6 waterfalls

View beautiful Wanaka from above on a scenic hot air balloon ride. Float over Wanaka's stunning landscape including Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka, with 360-degree views surrounded by the Southern Alps.

Join us for an exhilarating craft beer adventure, exploring Wanaka's top-notch breweries with delectable food pairings on our self-guided e-Bike tours. Immerse yourself in a safe, personalised, and enjoyable journey, giving you the freedom to uncover Wanaka's vibrant craft beer scene and culinary delights at your own pace. Embark on our specialized Hawea River Track adventure, a gem among Wanaka bike trails. This unique tour spans Wanaka's natural wonders, from the serene Lake Hawea John's Creek Trail to the thrilling Hawea River Track and Outlet track. As the only locally owned company offering the full Lake Hawea to Wanaka bike ride, we've ingeniously combined three tracks to craft the ultimate 1-day craft beer tour in New Zealand. Why settle for a standard bike rental and a big brand beer label when you can enjoy a craft beer exploration along the picturesque Lake Hawea to Wanaka bike trail?

Explore the outstanding scenery of Lake Wanaka as you cruise over to Ruby Island for a short guided walk. See some of Wanaka's most spectacular views and benefit from outstanding photo opportunities.

Off the beaten track, with great views, gentle terrain and the feeling of being remote,  What more could you ask for? This is a real snow adventure in a true Alpine environment. The Pisa Range offers fantastic terrain to explore and experience the snow. Our trips are suitable for all people of any age (7+) and most fitness levels, we keep our groups small so its ideal if you are seeking a rewarding scenic snow experience away from the crowds. The Alpine Guided Snowshoe is achievable by anybody.

Fly Further and See More from Wanaka. Window seats for everyone - Spectacular views of many Glaciers, Mt Aspiring, Waterfalls, the Southern Alps, 2 National Parks. Cruise & return on a different route

What makes this activity truly unique and exciting is the rare combination of learning to fly in one of the world’s most scenic locations. You’re not just a passenger—you’re in control, gaining hands-on experience with the guidance of a professional instructor. The setting over Lake Wanaka, known for its stunning natural beauty, elevates the experience, making it more than just a flight lesson—it's a journey through some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes. Plus, unlike typical flight lessons, this experience is designed to be shared. Up to two of your friends or family members can join you on this adventure, turning it into a memorable event for everyone. The mix of practical flying, stunning scenery, and the ability to share the moment with loved ones is what sets this flight apart from anything else.

Soar over Wānaka with two alpine landings, including Coromandel Peak - Mt Roy (if available), plus views of the Matukituki River, Mou Waho, Mount Aspiring, and Lake Hāwea.

Experience the ultimate 1 way adventure from Wanaka to Franz Josef. Our small group, fully-guided tour takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Wānaka and Hāwea lakes, over the stunning Haast Pass, and along the beautiful West Coast beaches to Franz Josef. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind authentic Kiwi experience with our famously passionate guides, renowned for their engaging stories and rich local knowledge. Travel in modern, comfortable minibuses, fully equipped with amenities to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the trip.

Explore the world's highest waterfall cable climb on a guided adventure at Lake Wanaka. Climb 320 meters up cascading waterfalls, admire spectacular mountains, and cross unique suspension bridges.

The Ultimate Lake and Mountain Adventure Wanaka’s boat and 4×4 tour brings you the best of both worlds with views from the lake and land looking over remote islands and National Parks. From start to finish we are off the beaten path, no people, truly remote, truly stunning. The best place to enjoy the views and your gourmet picnic!  The 4 hour tour departs from the Wanaka Marina and includes a 20 minutes boat ride to and from the base of Mt. Burke where you and your guide board our 4x4. 

Discover the wild beauty of New Zealand's West Coast and see why it is so dramatic.

Living a rich life is about experiences, not stuff – our spectacular backyard is full of adventure and we want to share it with you. Get out of your comfort zone and be rewarded as we conquer the highest waterfall cable climb in the world together. Our intermediate climb involves approximately 3hrs of climbing steel ladder rungs and crossing 6 bridges next to a spectacular waterfall and finishes with approximatley 45 minutes walk down a mountainside trail. This tour is perfect for active adventurers who love the exploring outdoors, waterfalls and beautiful places. You will be climbing next to vertical waterfalls and being happy with heights helps! Stay dry. No experience required. If you are hesitant or just want a smaller taste, we recommend our Level 1 / Beginner climb.

Enjoy a cruise on the crystal clear waters of Lake Wanaka to the remote Mou Waho Island nature reserve. See some of Wanaka's most spectacular views and benefit from outstanding photo opportunities.

Lets us take you on amazing Jet boat ride down the Mighty Clutha river. Amazing world renowned scenery , snow capped mountains and the famous Historic Red Bridge". The Clutha river is the second longest river in New Zealand. The river flows swiftly through the Upper Clutha Valley between ancient glacial terraces. We will take you through the long section called the "Snake" before reaching a rare switchback feature called the 'Devils Nook". Before heading back upstream to take in the magnificent views of the mountains.

Take a shuttle from Wānaka to Hāwea and bike back to Wānaka. Ride along the Gladstone Track, running along the front of Lake Hāwea, followed by the river trails all the way back to Wānaka.

Ride on possibly the best 1-day bike ride in New Zealand with our exclusive Hawea River Track adventure. We've crafted a unique experience by combining three different tracks, inventing a great ride that others now emulate. This leisurely exploration of Wanaka's scenic wonders offers stunning views along the gentle riverside track, showcasing the Upper Clutha's natural beauty. Join us for a pickup at 9 am, 11 am, or 2 pm from your accommodation. A 15-minute drive takes you to the wild and beautiful Lake Hawea, where you'll cruise along the Hawea River Track on an easy 30 km ride back to Wanaka town. A year-round delight, this classic Wanaka ride includes a strategic stop at Wanaka's best bakery for coffee and pastries. Once back in Wanaka town, just let us know, and we'll ensure you get a safe ride home. Experience the pinnacle of New Zealand's biking adventures, combining innovation and breathtaking landscapes for a day to remember

Explore Wanaka's alpine beauty with our exclusive quad bike tours. Yamaha 350-450cc Quad bikes offer safety and comfort for all skill levels.

This is an adventure like no other, paddling one of New Zealand’s most spectacular mountain rivers in our fun, inflatable packrafts. Start your action packed day with a scenic shuttle drive beneath the towering mountains, glaciers and waterfalls of the Matukituki Valley. After refreshments its gear-on, safety brief and paddle tuition before heading down-river on our stable and strong packrafts. Ride the wave trains, paddle into calm eddies and float with the river flow. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the river bank and play in turquoise swimming holes as you continue paddling down river. By the time the day is done your guide will have you paddling like a pro. You'll be accompanied by one of our friendly 'shuttle support' dogs on the drive, please let us know if this might be an issue for you and we can arrange otherwise.  

Experience an amazing self-guided 30km scenic ride, the ideal way to escape the crowds and explore the beautiful landscapes around Wanaka at your own pace.

Explore by 4WD the private backroads of West Wanaka Station an iconic alpine mountain farm high in the mountains surrounding Lake Wanaka. Pass herds of Red Deer, Angus Cattle and sheep grazing in their natural environment.  Climb Wanaka's very own "road to heaven" to our exclusive alpine cafe for refreshments and  jaw-dropping panoramic views over Lake Wanaka and beyond to Mt Aspiring National Park.  Our expert local guides provide in-depth knowledge on Wanaka's history and farming life. Off-road adventures do not come more authentic than this.