Sometimes, July gets so hot that it makes you yearn for winter, but in Wanaka , New Zealand, July is the height of winter, so visitors can get their wish.

This town, famous for the Wanaka Tree, a picturesque willow tree that stands alone in Lake Wanaka, is a bustling resort town in the southern winter, located on the South Island of New Zealand in the mountains.

Visitors will enjoy the spectacular skiing in Wanaka as well as the gorgeous mountain setting, which is also great for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even ice climbing.

There are alpine lakes, snow-capped mountains, and even glaciers in Wanaka where visitors can have a nice picnic.

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