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Planning a trip to Wanaka with kids? This laid-back lakeside town is one of our favourite stops on New Zealand’s South Island — with the perfect mix of outdoor adventures, scenic views, and family-friendly activities.
We visited Wanaka as part of our South Island campervan road trip and again on the drive between Queenston and Lake Tekapo, and we quickly realised it’s the kind of place you’ll wish you had longer to explore.
From iconic hikes and lake activities to fun attractions like Puzzling World and easy day trips nearby, there’s no shortage of things to do, even if you just want to slow down for a day or two.
In this guide, we’re sharing the best things to do in Wanaka to help you plan your stay.
Wanaka – Quick Guide
- ✔ Best for: Nature, lakes, family activities
- ✔ Top experience: Puzzling World
- ✔ Best winter activity: Snow Farm NZ
- ✔ Best walk: Roys Peak or Blue Pools
- ✔ Perfect for: 1–2 days
Plan Your Trip
Here are a few things we always organise before travelling:
- Stay connected: We use Airalo eSIM
- Car hire: Compare options with DiscoverCars
- Travel insurance: Check SafetyWing or World2Cover via Klook
- Airport transfers: Book with Welcome Pickups
- Accommodation: Find the best deals here
- Tours: We always use GetYourGuide
A Guide To Wanaka New Zealand
Wanaka is located approximately an hour from Queenstown, with many people choosing to visit just as a day trip from Queenstown or when passing through on their way north.
We were lucky enough to stay overnight in the Wanaka area during our 16 day South Island campervan trip around New Zealand in winter, and we are glad we did.
There is a tranquillity about Wanaka that makes it really beautiful.
However, it is also a very family-friendly town with so many things to do in Wanaka with kids!
Heading to NZ soon? Check out our ultimate guide to what to pack for New Zealand for adults & kids.
Fun Things To Do In Wanaka With Kids
Wanaka is a great place if you want to enjoy the fresh air, great outdoors and lake views. The whole town is built around Lake Wanaka and it is a breathtaking sight, no matter what time of year you visit.
Here are the best things to do in Wanaka for families for a memorable trip:
1. Hike Roys Peak Track
If you’ve seen photos of Wanaka, chances are you’ve seen the view from Roys Peak.
This is one of the most iconic hikes in New Zealand, with sweeping views over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. It’s a challenging uphill climb the entire way, but the payoff at the top is absolutely worth it.
We didn’t attempt this one with the kids, but it’s a popular sunrise hike for those wanting that famous ridgeline photo. If you’re travelling without young kids or have older, confident hikers, this is definitely one to add to your list or to your South Island itinerary.
Good to know:
- Steep and exposed with little shade
- Best done early morning or late afternoon
- Bring plenty of water
👉 One of Wanaka’s most famous experiences — worth planning ahead if you want to tick it off.
2. Kayak Lake Wanaka
No visit to Wanaka feels complete without getting out on the water, and kayaking is one of the best ways to experience the lake up close.
On calmer days, the water is incredibly still, reflecting the surrounding mountains and creating some pretty special views. It’s a peaceful way to slow things down for a couple of hours and take in the scenery from a different perspective.
There are a range of guided kayak tours available, from short scenic paddles to longer half-day experiences, depending on how active you want to be.
👉 This is one of the most scenic ways to experience Lake Wanaka — check availability for your dates here.
3. Challenge Your Mind At Puzzling World
Puzzling World is one of Wanaka’s most iconic attractions — and it’s easy to see why.
We spent a good half day here and honestly could have stayed longer. From the moment you walk in, there’s something to capture your attention, whether it’s the illusion rooms, interactive exhibits, or the famous leaning tower outside.
The maze was a highlight for us (even if we didn’t quite make it all the way through before needing a snack break). And even the café keeps things fun, with puzzles and games at the tables while you eat.
👉 If you’re visiting Wanaka with kids, this is an easy must-do — grab your tickets in advance here.
4. Go See That Wanaka Tree
Some places are iconic for a really simple reason, and That Wanaka Tree brings in a lot of crowds each year.
More than you would expect for a tree, but if you fancy yourself a bit of a travel photographer or Instagrammer, the tree is a must-visit Wanaka site!
The tree lives within Lake Wanaka, and throughout the year it changes to match the seasons, from blooming leaves to being left sparse and bare in winter. Plus, throughout the seasons, you get a different backdrop to match.
Honestly…. most overrated thing ever, and it wasn’t worth the walk for me, but it did create plenty of jokes on the trip when we commented on how much more impressive other trees in New Zealand were.
Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds because for some reason, it gets crazy busy!
PLANNING A NZ ROAD TRIP?
Our favourite way to explore NZ is by motorhome! Check out Jucy Campervans for a budget option or for extra comfort try Star RV.
5. Enjoy The Outdoors
Wanaka, just like the rest of New Zealand’s South Island, is a dream for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors.
Make the most of the fresh air and enjoy the many outdoor activities in Wanaka. There are many different walking and hiking tracks to suit all fitness levels and ages.
Some popular hiking trails in Wanaka are:
- Roys Peak Track
- Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain walks
- Mount Iron Track
Or head to Mount Aspiring National Park, located around 50 minutes from Wanaka for a variety of hikes to suit all fitness levels.
Wanaka is home to plenty of adrenaline junkie activities too, so if you love to get your heart rate up, you will love some of the many extreme sports and adventure experiences on offer.
Other fun outdoors things to do in Wanaka:
- Wildwire Wanaka waterfall cable climb
- Horseriding
- Paddleboarding
- Parasailing
- Canyoning
- Bike riding
- Skydiving
6. Visit the Blue Pools Track
Located about an hour from Wanaka along the Haast Pass, the Blue Pools Track is one of the most beautiful short walks in the region.
The track itself is easy and mostly flat, making it a great option for families. The highlight is crossing the swing bridges and looking down into the incredibly clear blue water — it almost doesn’t look real.
This was one of those stops that surprised us the most. It’s quick, easy, and really rewarding, especially if you’re already driving through the area.
👉 A great family-friendly walk — we’ve included this in our South Island walks guide if you want more stops like this.
7. Go Bike Riding Around Wanaka
Wanaka is a fantastic place for cycling, with a range of trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
There are plenty of easy lakeside paths that are perfect for families, as well as longer trails like parts of the Clutha River Track if you’re looking for more of an adventure.
We saw lots of families out riding, and it’s a great way to explore the area at your own pace while taking in the scenery.
If you don’t have your own bikes, there are plenty of hire options in town, including e-bikes for a more relaxed ride.
👉 Join a bike tour in Wanaka along the Hawea & Clutha Rivers
8. Visit Local Wineries Near Wanaka
Wanaka sits right on the edge of the Central Otago wine region, one of New Zealand’s most famous areas for Pinot Noir.
Even if you’re travelling with kids, visiting a winery can still be a relaxed and enjoyable experience, especially at vineyards that offer food, outdoor seating, or space to explore. Ayrburn in Arrowtown is incredible!
If you’re travelling without kids or planning a day just for the adults, there are also guided wine tours available that take you to multiple vineyards without needing to drive.
👉 We’ve shared our favourite New Zealand winery tours in this guide if you want to plan a wine tasting day.
9. Visit The Wanaka Lakefront Playground
One of the simplest but most memorable stops for our kids was the lakefront playground right in town.
It’s a really well-designed space with plenty to keep kids entertained, including the much-loved dinosaur slide. Ours ended up spending far longer here than we expected, making friends and running around while we enjoyed the lake views nearby.
It’s also a great spot to take a break between activities, especially if you’re travelling with younger kids. Although our big kids enjoyed visiting a second time at 10 and 13, though. Still fun!
👉 A great free activity that’s perfect for breaking up the day.
10. Go Jet Boating in Wanaka
Jet boating is one of those classic New Zealand experiences, and Wanaka is a great place to try it.
We’ve done jet boating in New Zealand, and it’s always such a fun mix of adrenaline and scenery. The Wanaka jet boat rides along the Matukituki River are especially memorable, with incredible mountain views as you speed through narrow waterways and spin your way down the river.
It’s definitely one of those activities where the kids (and adults) will be talking about it long after it’s over.
👉 If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, this is one of the most fun things to do in Wanaka — check availability here.
11. Wanaka Lavender Farm
Just a short drive from town, Wanaka Lavender Farm is a lovely spot to slow things down for a while.
Depending on the time of year, you’ll find rows of purple lavender in bloom, along with farm animals, gardens, and plenty of space for kids to explore. Our kids loved seeing the alpacas and goats, while we enjoyed wandering through the grounds and browsing the shop.
And of course, you can’t visit without trying the lavender ice cream — it’s a bit of a novelty, but definitely worth it.
👉 A great option for a relaxed outing that works well for all ages.
12. Explore Lake Hawea
If you’re looking to escape the crowds a little, Lake Hawea is well worth the short drive from Wanaka.
It has a quieter, more untouched feel compared to Lake Wanaka, with wide open spaces and beautiful mountain scenery. It’s a great spot for a picnic, a swim in warmer months, or just a peaceful walk along the water.
We loved the slower pace here — it felt like a bit of a hidden gem compared to some of the busier spots.
👉 Perfect if you want a more relaxed, off-the-beaten-path experience.
13. Walk the Mount Iron Track
If you’re looking for a shorter walk with incredible views, Mount Iron is a great alternative to Roys Peak.
This loop track takes around 1–2 hours and offers panoramic views over Wanaka, Lake Wanaka, and the surrounding mountains without the long climb of some of the more challenging hikes.
We found this to be a really manageable option with kids, especially if you take your time and enjoy the views along the way.
👉 A great option if you want a rewarding hike without committing to a full-day trek.
14. Take a Lake Wanaka Cruise or Water Taxi
If kayaking isn’t your thing, a lake cruise or water taxi is a great way to experience Lake Wanaka without the effort.
These trips take you out onto the water with incredible views of the surrounding mountains, and some tours even include stops at nearby islands like Mou Waho.
It’s a more relaxed option that still lets you take in the beauty of the area — perfect if you want something a little slower-paced.
👉 A great alternative to kayaking, especially for families or mixed-age groups – try this Happy Hour cruise with a glass of wine or beer included.
Top Things To Do In Wanaka In Winter
Wanaka is a perfect winter destination! Close enough to incredible ski slopes and winter experiences that you simply won’t want to miss!
15. Visit The Snow Farm NZ
If you’re visiting Wanaka in winter, Snow Farm is an absolute must — especially with kids.
It’s one of the most accessible places to experience snow without needing to commit to full ski gear or lessons. The tubing hill was easily the highlight for our family, and we all ended up having just as much fun as the kids.
The drive up is incredibly scenic (and a bit of an adventure in itself), and once you arrive, there’s a range of activities from snowshoeing to cross-country skiing and ski lessons, depending on conditions.
👉 This was one of our kids’ favourite experiences on the South Island — check current conditions and details before you go.
For updated pricing and snow season information, visit their website.
Watch our Snow Farm video on YouTube HERE.
16. Hit the Ski Fields Near Wanaka
Wanaka is perfectly positioned for access to some of New Zealand’s best ski fields.
Treble Cone is one of the most popular options, known for its incredible views and runs for a range of skill levels. It’s about a 40-minute drive from town and a great choice if you’re looking for a classic ski experience.
For ski passes and details, visit the Treble Cone website.
For beginners, Cardrona Alpine Resort is another excellent option, with wide beginner slopes and plenty of lessons available. It’s especially good if you’re travelling with kids or trying skiing for the first time.
👉 If you’re visiting in winter, spending at least one day on the slopes is definitely one of the best things to do in Wanaka area.
17. Visit Cardrona Alpine Resort
For beginners, head to the Cardrona Alpine Resort where they have some of the best learn to ski lessons and beginner tracks for anyone trying skiing or snowboarding for the first time.
They have 4 chair lifts to get you to the different areas and for those of you not wanting to ski, there’s plenty of delicious eats too!
There are shuttle buses to take you to and from all the nearby ski fields.
18. Take A Scenic Flight With A Glacier Landing
For something truly unforgettable, a scenic flight from Wanaka is one of the most incredible experiences you can have.
These helicopter tours take you up through the Matukituki Valley and into the Southern Alps, where you’ll see snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and landscapes that are otherwise completely inaccessible.
The highlight is landing on a glacier — standing up there surrounded by mountains is something you don’t forget in a hurry.
It’s definitely more of a splurge experience, but one that feels completely worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
👉 If this is on your bucket list, it’s worth booking ahead — check availability here.
Day Trips From Wanaka
There is plenty to do if you want to get out and about from Wanaka for a day too, with day trip options galore!
Of course, one of the best day trips from Wanaka is Queenstown, which is under an hour away. There are so many family-friendly activities in Queenstown, although it’s somewhere you want to spend more than a day trip.
Check out our 5-day Queenstown itinerary if you want to really immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful cities in New Zealand.
A visit to Arrowtown is also a bit of fun. Situated around 50 minutes from Wanaka, you could easily combine a visit on your way back from Queenstown.
The town looks like a vision from the past, with a quaint main street and an interesting gold rush history. Nearby, you will find the Shotover Jet Boat which is one of our all-time favourite experiences in New Zealand.
Where To Stay In Wanaka
While many people opt to visit Wanaka from Queenstown as a day trip or as they pass through, there are options available to stay in Wanaka so you have time to visit more of the local Wanaka attractions.
Hotels in Wanaka
For hotel accommodation in Wanaka, check out these great choices:
- Lakeside Apartments – Central location, great views of Lake Wanaka, swimming pool.
- Clearbrook Motel Wanaka – Close to city centre, restaurants and more.
- Edgewater – Located on the edge of the lake, less central but still within walking distance to many facilities.
For a budget-friendly alternative, check out the many private rentals and holiday homes available in Wanaka on websites like Airbnb.
Camping In Wanaka
While you will not find much in the way of freedom camping in and around Wanaka, you will find a few options within an hour away if you are looking to keep your costs as low as possible.
Alternatively, there are several holiday parks and paid campgrounds available in Wanaka that are reasonably priced. Here are some options:
You may need to phone to confirm a booking as not all holiday parks have campsite bookings available online. Alternatively, check out our recommended camping apps for New Zealand too.
Places To Eat In Wanaka
If you are looking for where to eat in Wanaka, there are plenty of great options. For finer dining, restaurants and trendy cafes, you will find many great choices across the street from Lake Wanaka.
Some popular choices of places to eat in Wanaka are:
- Big Fig Wanaka
- Kika
- Muttonbird
- Tititea Steak House
- The Doughbin Bakery & Cafe
For something a little more casual, you can’t go past picking up a feast of fish and chips from Erik’s Fish and Chips van. The food van is permanently located in the middle of town, on Ardmore Street and is a popular choice for locals and visitors.
Even in winter, you will find fish and chips a popular choice in New Zealand (much like our home in Australia), so we couldn’t pass up the chance to try the award-winning seafood during our stay.
Wrapped in paper and ready to take down the beach for a fish and chips banquet by the lake, or just as easy to take back to your accommodation or campsite as we did with the kids in our campervan before making our way to our next stop on our road trip route.
FAQs For Your Trip To Wanaka
Is Wanaka worth visiting?
Yes, Wanaka is definitely worth visiting! It offers breathtaking natural landscapes, outdoor activities, and a relaxed atmosphere.
How many days do you need in Wanaka?
To fully explore the area and experience its beauty, it is recommended to spend at least 1-2 days in Wanaka.
Is Wanaka suitable for families?
Yes, Wanaka is a great destination for families! It offers a range of family-friendly activities such as hiking, biking, lake cruises, and wildlife encounters.
How do I get to Wanaka?
The easiest way to get to Wanaka is by flying into Queenstown International Airport, which is about a 1-hour drive away. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach Wanaka.
When is the best time to visit Wanaka?
Wanaka is a year-round destination. The summer months (December to February) are popular for outdoor activities. The winter months (June to August) are perfect for winter sports.
There are plenty of fun things to do in Wanaka with kids! You will have no trouble finding what to do in Wanaka New Zealand during your visit, whether you are in town with kids or having an adults-only escape. Wanaka is well worth dedicating some time during your New Zealand South Island explorations!
For more New Zealand planning resources check out these:
- Cost of travel in New Zealand
- Things to do in Lake Tekapo
- Best South Island campsites
- Essential NZ camping apps
- South Island campervan itinerary
- Wilderness Motorhomes review
- Weekend in Auckland
- Best things to do in NZ
- Queenstown with kids
- Christchurch with kids
- Auckland indoor activities
- Queenstown indoor activities