Internationally renowned for its glaciers and magnificent tramping and climbing, it is nestled on the shores of an azure blue lake amongst the mighty peaks of the Southern Alps. The natural amphitheatre created by these mountains provides a backdrop of stunning scenery for the Warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow. Nature expresses itself best in autumn in Wanaka with a kaleidoscope of colours from alluring gold to vivid reds.
The weather is still kind to the visitor with the hot days quietly making way to the chillier temperatures of winter. The first frosts of winter help turn the autumn leaves red and gold.
This is a spectacular time of year for photographers and artists who want to make the most of the autumn colours and lake reflections.
Wanaka remains the alpine jewel in an area on the border of Mount Aspiring National Park, a world-class heritage area covering thousands of square hectares stretching from Makarora in the north to South Westland on the West Coast and south to the wilds of Fiordland.
Jet boat down the Clutha River on one of New Zealand's last natural, untapped rivers, spilling out of Lake Wanaka. Jet boat up the Matukituki River and take a walk in the valley and combine this with a helicopter flight to Mt Aspiring.
Wanaka walking and cycling tracks go from Glendhu Bay following around the lake edge to Wanaka, Albert Town to the Red Bridge near Luggate. Also from Albert Town you can cross the pedestrian bridge and take the track along the river to Lake Hawea.
This alpine resort features over 30 restaurants and has all the amenities to satisfy the most discerning visitor.
Centrally situated, visitors have a choice of accommodation and are within four hours drive of three international airports.
For many more attractions for all the family please see www.lakewanaka.co.nz
Make the most of your time in Wanaka....ask a local for their recommendations, visit the Wanaka i-Site Visitor Centre or visit Trip Advisor or www.lakewanaka.co.nz (they have a long list of walks, lake and river activities, cycling tracks, food and wine recommendations).
The population of the Wanaka region in 2023 is over 16,000 residents.
Visitors to New Zealand are advised to check the DriveSafe website for information on road rules and driving in New Zealand prior to collecting your rental vehicle.
