Things to Do in Wanaka

Experience the thrill of shooting a variety of firearms at a shooting range. Learn how to safely handle and operate firearms with a safety briefing.

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.

Experience the magic of a Central Otago winter on a day trip from Queenstown. Enjoy the snow at Snow Farm, visit the Cardrona Hotel, explore Wanaka, and see the Cromwell Heritage Precinct.

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.

Make the most out of your ski trip with a multi-day lift pass which provides access to all lifts across both Cardrona and Treble Cone ski fields

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!

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.

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.

With our travel insurance, you can travel with peace of mind and focus solely on unwinding and enjoying your holiday. 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.

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, this guided hike begins along the banks of the Matukituki River. We enter Mt Aspiring National Park via a swing bridge, crossing the river. The walk steadily climbs through 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, whilst enjoying a gourmet packed lunch!

Full-day tour from Queenstown via Kawarau Gorge, Lake Pukaki, and Aoraki Mt Cook with lunch included. Travel with expert local guides on this small group tour.

Lake Wānaka offers one of New Zealand’s most scenic alpine fishing experiences, with clear water, mountain views, and a peaceful setting that feels far from the crowds. In just three hours, this trip gives you the chance to enjoy guided fishing while surrounded by Roys Peak, Mount Aspiring, and Treble Cone. With help from your experienced skipper, you’ll target trout and salmon using quality gear and proven techniques such as trolling and downrigging. Our quiet electric trolling motor creates a smooth, low-impact experience, allowing you to enjoy the calm surroundings while minimising our impact on the lake. With small groups of up to 6 guests, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks included, this trip is designed to be relaxed, personal, and easy to enjoy. It is the perfect way to combine fishing, scenery, and a memorable Lake Wānaka experience.

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.

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.

Discover the flavors of Central Otago on a wine tour from Wanaka. Visit 6 boutique vineyards, taste up to 30 wines, and enjoy a 5-course lunch paired with award-winning wines.

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.

Embark on a guided 1-way tour from Wanaka to Franz Josef. See the Wanaka Tree, Lake Hawea, Lake Matheson, and the Blue Pools. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Hard Antler in Haast.

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.

Discover the beauty of New Zealand’s Southern Lakes region on a guided tour from Queenstown. Explore Arrowtown, Wanaka, and enjoy scenic drives with photo stops.

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.

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.

Self-guided kayak trip with one-way transport—explore Lake Wānaka's shoreline on your own with gear, tips, and a custom route provided. Know what you’re doing and just need the gear? Explore Lake Wanaka on this self-guided kayaking activity! We’ll get you and the gear out to where you start and your Mission is to paddle it all back! Head off with your buddy, partner or group of friends and enjoy a morning of paddling on Lake Wanaka. We’ll arm you with a kayak, safety equipment and a map, get you out on the lake and your mission is to paddle back to Wanaka Township. Paddle the shoreline, explore islands, jump off jetties, or stop for a picnic - it’s your adventure, your way.

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.

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

Fly to Milford Sound through two of New Zealand’s most picturesque National Parks. View alpine lakes nestled amongst soaring snow-capped mountain peaks and pristine glaciers.

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.

Enjoy uncrowded groomed rooms, legendary off-piste terrain and a stunning backdrop at the second biggest ski area in New Zealand's South Island.

Lake Hāwea is one of New Zealand’s most peaceful alpine lakes, offering a quieter and more scenic fishing experience away from the crowds. Surrounded by crystal-clear water, mountain views, and rugged Southern Alps scenery, this 3-hour adventure is ideal for beginners, families, couples, and experienced anglers alike. With guidance from your friendly skipper, you’ll target trout and salmon using quality gear and proven techniques such as trolling and downrigging. Our quiet electric trolling motor creates a smooth, low-impact experience, allowing you to stay connected to the calm natural surroundings. With small groups of up to 6 guests, there is plenty of space to fish, relax, and enjoy the lake. We provide the fishing gear, snacks, and cold non-alcoholic drinks, you just bring your sense of 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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

Lake Hāwea offers a quieter, more remote fishing experience than many of New Zealand’s better-known lakes. With six hours on the water, there is more time to explore different fishing spots, try multiple techniques, and settle into the peaceful rhythm of the lake. The electric trolling motor keeps the experience quiet and low-impact, so you can enjoy the stillness of the water, the mountain views, and the excitement of fishing for trout and salmon without disturbing the natural surroundings. This trip is about more than the catch. It is a full alpine escape, combining expert-guided fishing, crystal-clear water, dramatic scenery, and the peaceful charm that makes Lake Hāwea such a special place.

Enjoy a guided tour from Franz Josef to Wanaka. Admire the stunning scenery of the West Coast beaches, the Haast Pass, and the Wānaka and Hāwea lakes.

Guests love the balance of excellent wine, local stories, stunning scenery and easygoing fun, plus thoughtful touches like a curated charcuterie board. With door-to-door Wanaka pickup and a friendly, social vibe, it feels less like a tour and more like being shown around by a local friend who truly loves the region. This half-day tour is hosted by a passionate local guide with international wine-tour experience, offering a relaxed, personal feel from start to finish. Unlike larger operators, this tour runs in small groups, allowing real conversations with winemakers, unhurried tastings, and flexibility to adapt the day to the group’s interests. Wineries are carefully selected boutique producers, chosen for their quality, character and welcoming atmosphere rather than volume or commercial scale.

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

Take in the stunning vistas of Lake Wānaka and its surroundings from the sky. Beginning at Wānaka Airport, enjoy a thrilling helicopter ride that soars above the shimmering waters and rugged ridgelines of Roy Peak, culminating in an alpine landing at an impressive 1,200 meters on Mt Alpha. Here, you can step out and soak in 360-degree views that encompass the majestic Southern Alps and the expansive lake below. This scenic flight, available year-round, offers breathtaking perspectives, whether under summer's golden light or winter's crisp snow. A perfect choice for families and travellers looking to experience the beauty of New Zealand's South Island in a short time.

Explore the Aspiring Valley on a guided tour from Wanaka. See the West and East Matukituki rivers, cross a swing bridge. See how glaciers formed the valley visit a waterfall.

Embark on the Aspiring Snow Special, a one-hour helicopter adventure into New Zealand’s most remote and spectacular alpine landscapes. This unforgettable experience features a stunning glacier or snow landing in the heart of the Southern Alps, followed by a scenic local landing near the shores of Lake Wānaka. Soar above rugged mountain peaks, thundering waterfalls, sheer rock faces, and pristine alpine terrain, with lush native forests providing a striking contrast to the dramatic high-country scenery. Touch down on an alpine glacier or snowfield and step into a world of untouched wilderness before concluding your journey with a breathtaking second landing overlooking Lake Wānaka. Available year-round, the Aspiring Snow Special is a truly memorable experience and a standout highlight of any Wānaka holiday - offering remarkable views, rare access to remote landscapes, and moments you’ll never forget.

Soar over the Mount Aspiring National Park on a scenic flight with 2 landings. Admire the stunning views of Mt Aspiring and the surrounding landscapes.

Journey from Wanaka to Queenstown, soaking in the stunning views of the Southern Alps and Cardrona Valley. This small group tour is fully guided and designed for comfort, making stops at iconic sites like the historic Cardrona Hotel and the breathtaking Crowne Range lookout. Your passionate guide will share insightful stories along the way, creating a memorable experience. Travel in a modern, comfortable minibus with a small group. Visit the historic Cardrona Hotel and enjoy the scenic Crowne Range Lookout.

Yes! If Smooth Ride provides tours in addition to private transfers, it can stand out as a premium, hassle-free tour service that combines comfort, convenience, and personalized experiences.