Quick Summary: Set on the southern end of Lake Wanaka on New Zealand's South Island, the resort town of Wanaka near Queenstown is the gateway to the Southern Alps' Mount Aspiring National Park. Surrounded by spectacular natural scenery of snow-capped mountains, glistening glaciers, azure alpine lakes, and densely wooded forests, the town offers an abundance of adventurous attractions and outdoor activities. Hit the slopes at the nearby Cardrona and Treble Cone ski resorts; head into the Mount Aspiring National Park for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching; and taste some of New Zealand’s top wines at one of the many wine estates in the region.


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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

Lake Wanaka

© Somphol/stock.adobe.com

Roy’s Peak

© Joshua/stock.adobe.com

Rippon Vineyard

© Rippon Vineyard

Mou Waho Island

© RG41_official/stock.adobe.com

Warbirds & Wheels Museum

© Warbirds & Wheels Museum

National Transport and Toy Museum

© National Transport and Toy Museum

Cinema Paradiso

© batuhan toker/stock.adobe.com

Puzzling World

© Puzzling World

Wanaka Lavender Farm

© Wanaka Lavender Farm

Francesca's Italian Kitchen

© Francesca's Italian Kitchen

Federal Diner

© Federal Diner

Big Fig

© Big Fig

Bistro Gentil

© Bistro Gentil

Thai Siam

© ArenaCreative/stock.adobe.com

The Cow Pizza & Spaghetti House

© The Cow Pizza & Spaghetti House

KOTA Restaurant and Bar

© BillionPhotos.com/stock.adobe.com

The Coffee Shack

© jobi_pro/stock.adobe.com

Relishes Cafe

© Relishes Café

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