5 / 5 - One review
How to get there
68km from Queenstown, by car or by bus.
When to go
Between October and March
Minimum stay
1 to 2 days
Wanaka (New Zealand)
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Emmanuelle Bluman
Practical information about Wanaka
Reviews of Wanaka
Wanaka is a small and pleasant town located on the shores of Lake Wanaka. It is less bustling than Queenstown but, despite its more peaceful nature, there's plenty to do for anyone who might be worried about getting bored!
My suggestion:
Ask at the tourist information office for the hiking map, and explore the wonders of the nearby Mount Aspiring National Park.
Summary:
In comparison to the bustle of Queenstown, Wanaka feels like a ghost town! You quickly notice the town's calm, and the peace and quiet is part of its charm. You can easily leave your car downtown, and take a walk along the lake before stopping for a drink or a meal in one of the many restaurants with lakeside views.
Boat trips are also on offer, and I have a weakness for jet boats and their intoxicating speed! Nonetheless, this is the kind of territory that is best explored on foot, by taking a breathtakingly beautiful hike.
If you only have a few hours to spend in Wanaka, I recommend that you take a walk up to the summit of Mount Roy, and enjoy the panoramic lake views. If you have more time, head instead toward Mount Aspiring National Park for a hike, with the longest and best known being the Routeburn Track, which takes two to four days.
©
Emmanuelle Bluman
84 travellers' photos
