OtagoNature & Landscapes

Lake Wanaka

A glacier-carved alpine lake surrounded by the Southern Alps, and home to a single lone willow standing in the shallows that's become one of New Zealand's most photographed trees.

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Lake Wanaka

Quick Facts

Region
Otago, South Island
Best time
Year-round
Entry fee
Free
Duration
Half day – multi-day

Overview

Lake Wanaka is the fourth-largest lake in New Zealand, carved out by glaciers and ringed by the peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park. The town of Wanaka on its shore has a more relaxed, less commercialised feel than nearby Queenstown, while still offering easy access to hiking, skiing, mountain biking and water sports.

'That Wanaka Tree' — a lone willow growing directly out of the lake's shallow water near the town centre — has become one of the most photographed trees in the country, particularly popular at sunrise and sunset when it's silhouetted against the lake and mountains behind.

Things To Do

  • That Wanaka Tree — the iconic lone willow, a short walk from the town centre along the lakefront.
  • Roys Peak Track — a demanding but rewarding day walk with sweeping views over the lake.
  • Lake cruises and water sports — kayaking, paddleboarding, boating and fishing on the lake.
  • Mount Aspiring National Park — walking tracks ranging from short strolls to multi-day alpine routes.
  • Puzzling World — a quirky attraction of illusion rooms and a giant maze, on the edge of town.
Tip: That Wanaka Tree is best photographed early morning or at sunset when the light is soft — it's also a popular spot, so arriving outside the middle of the day means fewer people in your shot.

Getting There

Wanaka is about 1 hour's drive from Queenstown over the Crown Range, one of the highest sealed roads in New Zealand, or around 3.5 hours from Christchurch via the Mackenzie Basin. Wanaka also has its own small airport.

LocationWanaka, Otago
Opening HoursLakefront and tree accessible 24/7
Entry FeeFree
DurationHalf day for the lakefront; multi-day for national park tramping
AccessibilityLakefront path is flat and accessible; Roys Peak and alpine tracks are steep

Nearby Attractions

Skyline Gondola

Skyline Gondola

A gondola above Queenstown with luge tracks and views over Lake Wakatipu.

Kawarau Bridge Bungy

Kawarau Bridge Bungy

The birthplace of commercial bungy jumping, about 40 minutes' drive away.

Otago Peninsula

Otago Peninsula

Albatross, penguins and seals on a peninsula near Dunedin.

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