Things to Do in 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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

Skydive in New Zealand from 9,000, 12,000, or 15,000 feet! See six lakes, the Southern Alps, and Mount Cook. Enjoy 25-60 seconds of freefall at speeds up to 200kph for an unforgettable experience.

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.

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

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.

tart your journey on the calm waters of Lake Wānaka, where mist lingers on the surface and the mountains rise all around you. In just three hours, you’ll cast your line into some of the most scenic fishing waters in New Zealand. With expert guidance and top-quality gear, you’ll learn proven techniques like trolling and downrigging to target trout and salmon. Our boat is powered by a quiet electric trolling motor, letting you glide silently through the water—perfect for sneaking up on fish and soaking in the peaceful surroundings. As you fish beneath the peaks of Roys Peak, Mount Aspiring, and Treble Cone, you’ll feel far from the crowds, fully immersed in nature. With small groups (max 6 people), snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks included, this trip is designed for comfort, focus, and the thrill of the catch. It’s not just a fishing trip—it’s a moment of calm, a burst of excitement, and a memory made in one of the world’s most beautiful places.

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.

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

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

You’ll get lots of good advice from the folks at Paddle Wanaka. We’ll help you plan your route based on the weather and your experience level. Plus we’ll provide transport to your starting location, so you only need to paddle one way! Meander along the coastline, power down the lake, explore the local islands, jump off the jetties or picnic in style. How you take on this Mission is up to you.

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.

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?

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.

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

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

In other parts of the world, it may take several days to trek to places as beautiful as the Rob Roy Glacier, but we offer this experience in a World Heritage Area, in just one day! Our experienced local guides are with you from pick-up to drop-off, offering their knowledge of the area, it's history, flaura & fauna. The day begins with a scenic drive around Lake Wanaka into the Matukituki Valley. After driving through several fords, we arrive at Raspberry Hut. From here, the guided walk begins along the banks of the Matukituki River. We enter Mt Aspiring National Park via a swing bridge across the river, then the walk steadily climbs into a New Zealand Beech Rainforest with a wide variety of flaura & fauna. After walking for 2.5 hours, the forest drops away and we enter open ground. Here the beauty of Rob Roy Glacier unfolds. Take time to relax and enjoy one of the best views Mother Nature offers, while eating a gourmet lunch!

Ride gentle horses on a serene mountain trail suitable for all riders. Enjoy customized lessons and the beauty of loose rein exploration.

Wanaka fishing charters offer a distinctive angling experience set against the breathtaking backdrop of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. The pristine waters of Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea are home to diverse fish species, including brown and rainbow trout, as well as salmon, catering to anglers of all skill levels. Guided by seasoned experts, these charters provide valuable insights into the best fishing spots and techniques, enhancing the overall experience. This combination of scenic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and professional guidance makes Wanaka fishing charters a unique and memorable adventure.

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.

Enjoy a comfortable cruise on our 28 seat super taxi Moutimu and a knowledgeable Kiwi skipper to answer your questions along the way. Cruise through outstanding mountain scenery to the remote Mou Waho Island nature reserve. We are contracted to the Department of Conservation and every guest contributes to funding the conservation work on Mou Waho Island ensuring that it is a predator-free conservation area for our unique native birds and other fauna. Here you can see first-hand results of conservation efforts including the rare flightless Buff Weka (extinct on the mainland since 1920), the Mountain Stone Weta and many other native birds. A two hour self-guided nature walk is included and this will take you up to the natural glacial lake right on top of the island and magnificent mountain and lake scenery in every direction. This is rated as one of the top activities by visitors to Wanaka and rated among the best Wanaka walks and hikes.

Experience the grandeur of Milford Sound from above on this scenic roundtrip flight from Wanaka. Marvel at glaciers and mighty Mt. Aspiring, enjoy a brief landing to capture the splendor

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.

0830hrs daily shuttle from Wanaka to Bike the Lake Dunstan Trail - NZ's best one-day Official NZ Great Ride. Bike from Cromwell to historic Clyde, meet the shuttle and return transport back to Wanaka.

A fully hosted day where your Guest Experience Manager (who you will have a direct phone number for) will ensure you are set up to have a great ride and experience. The Lake Dunstan Trail is one an Official NZ Great Ride and possibly the best one-day NZ Great Ride in New Zealand. nzbiketrails is a Qualmark Gold accredited company - meaning that we a provider delivering within the top 10% of New Zealand Experiences. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional levels of Guest services which is represented by our reviews. Our aim is to help guests see the beauty of New Zealand, on great bikes, led by passionate trail riders who love what they do. We also aim to 'do good' in the communities that we operate in.

Escape into the beauty of Lake Wānaka on this fishing trip. Feel the thrill of the catch, the calm of the lake, and the joy of sharing the moment—no experience needed, just your sense of adventure.

Join us for a 3-hour fishing adventure on the peaceful waters of Lake Hāwea, surrounded by stunning mountain views. With clear, deep water and plenty of fish, it’s the perfect place to catch trout or salmon. You’ll learn and use great fishing techniques like trolling and using the downriggers, with help from a friendly, expert skipper. Our boat runs on a quiet electric motor, so you can enjoy a smooth, eco-friendly ride while staying close to nature. With small groups (max 6 people), you’ll have plenty of space to fish and relax. We’ll provide all the gear, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks—you just bring your excitement and enjoy the thrill of the catch in one of New Zealand’s hidden gems.

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.

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.

Climb aboard a jet boat to see the spectacular glaciers at the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park and get off the beaten path on a 50-minute wilderness walk.

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.

Discover Wanaka and Central Otago’s vineyards on a guided tour. Try wine tastings at 4 vineyards and enjoy a gourmet platter.

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.

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.

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. 

Get wet and wild as you experience the best of both worlds at Twin Falls Waterfall. Climb up one side, then enjoy the thrill of canyoning down the other with no prior experience needed.

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.