Unmissable Activities in Wānaka, New Zealand

Must-Try Activities in Wānaka

Wānaka, a stunning destination in New Zealand, is not only renowned for its pristine nature but also offers plenty of thrilling recreational activities. Here are some fantastic experiences you shouldn’t miss when visiting Wānaka.

The Secret Sauna at Lake Hāwea

The Secret Sauna is one of our favorite activities during our stay in Wānaka. This wooden sauna is located by Lake Hāwea and offers a fantastic relaxation experience with cold water directly from the lake. They provide slippers to easily dash into the water, which is quite essential!

Things to Know:

• Book online in advance.
• There are both shared and private sauna options.
• Dress in swimwear for convenience.
• A lounge area is available for relaxation after your sauna session.

Conquering Rocky Mountain via Diamond Lake

On our trip, we opted to hike the loop around Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain since Roy's Peak was closed for sheep breeding season. The journey takes about 3-4 hours and ranges from easy to moderate difficulty. The initial stretch to Diamond Lake is relatively easy, but it gets steeper with loose rocks afterward.

Remember to take the left fork at the junction; it will help conserve your energy for the steeper sections ahead!

Highlight: From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the river and lake. The best time to hike is on clear days to fully enjoy these stunning sights!

Exploring Glacier Rob Roy

The route to Glacier Rob Roy is a magnificent journey from Wānaka and well worth the experience. We decided to drive there and were treated to beautiful scenery along the way. Keep in mind that there are several small rivers to cross, and after heavy rains, you might need a vehicle with high clearance.

The trip to Glacier Rob Roy usually takes a day and culminates with the spectacular sight of waterfalls and glaciers. Make sure you have a good pair of hiking shoes for this adventure!

Cardrona Hotel: A Charming Stop

On our way from Queenstown to Wānaka, we stopped at the historic Cardrona Hotel for lunch. The hotel’s exterior looks like it’s straight out of a Western movie, but inside it’s very cozy.

Once a lodging for gold seekers, it has now transformed into a restaurant and hotel. We enjoyed a delicious burger for lunch. If you have time, consider booking a night here for a complete experience!

Blue Pools: Weather-Dependent Destination

Blue Pools is about an hour’s drive from Wānaka and is highly dependent on the weather. We visited on a sunny day, and the water was incredibly beautiful. However, on overcast days, you might want to reconsider your trip.

Note: Entrance to Blue Pools is free, but be prepared for icy cold water! Aim to go early or late in the day to avoid the tourist crowds.

Thunder Creek Falls and Fantail Falls

We continued driving for about 10-15 minutes from Blue Pools and stumbled upon these magnificent waterfalls. Just a short 5-minute walk from the road leads you to the falls. It’s exhilarating to feel the cool water and see the droplets splashing on your face!

The Wānaka Tree: A Famous Icon

The Wānaka willow tree, proudly half-submerged in the lake, is one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand. If you’re a photography enthusiast, visit at dawn for the best lighting.

Hiking Roys Peak

Roys Peak is the most famous hiking trail in Wānaka, but unfortunately, it’s closed in October and November. If you visit outside of this timeframe, make sure to try this trail for stunning views of the lake and the Southern Alps!

Wānaka Lavender Farm

This is a fun stop if you visit during the flower season (starting in December). We captured many beautiful photos with the purple lavender fields and the majestic mountain backdrop.

Other Activities Near Wānaka

If you have extra time, don’t miss these activities:

• Iron Road Waterfall Climb: A beginner-friendly hike up a waterfall.
• Rippon Vineyard: The most beautiful vineyard in Wānaka, perfect for wine tasting.
• Packrafting Tour: A unique experience combining hiking and paddling on rivers.

Dining in Wānaka

Despite its small size, Wānaka offers great dining options. We particularly enjoyed:

• Federal Diner
• Crumb Bakehouse
• Scroggin Coffee & Eatery
• Big Fig
• Wānaka Ramen

All these places are easily found on Google Maps.

Where to Stay in Wānaka

If you’re looking for accommodation in Wānaka, there are plenty of hotels and lodges with stunning views of the lake and mountains. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

Helpful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

When planning your trip to Wānaka, Vietnamese travelers should note:

• Visa: You need to apply for a New Zealand visa before arrival.
• Flights: Book tickets from Hanoi (HAN) or Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Queenstown, then travel on to Wānaka.
• Costs: A meal here can range from 200,000 to 500,000 VND.
• Time Zone: New Zealand is GMT+13, so adjust your schedule accordingly when booking flights.

Article adapted and edited from source: Salt in Our Hair