Top Experiences in Lake Wanaka

The Ultimate Lake and Mountain Adventure

Wanaka’s boat and 4×4 tour brings you the best of both worlds with views from the lake and land looking over remote islands and National Parks. From start to finish we are off the beaten path, no people, truly remote, truly stunning. The best place to enjoy the views and your gourmet picnic! 

The 4 hour tour departs from the Wanaka Marina and includes a 20 minutes boat ride to and from the base of Mt. Burke where you and your guide board our 4x4. 

Come and join us on a trip to our favourite place on Lake Wanaka, Mou Waho Island.Where you can find an island, on a lake, on an island, on a lake, on an island on the sea! Mou Waho Island is a protected nature reserve and is home to many native New Zealand birds including the curious and flightless Weka. A short walk takes you to the top of the island where you will be exposed to breathtaking panoramic views of the Arethusa pool, Lake Wanaka and its surrounding peaks.

Our water taxi leaves Wanaka Marina twice-daily travelling 15km up Lake Wanaka, passing Mou Tapu Island and the steep cliff of fisherman's cove to Mou Waho Island. Your friendly and knowledgeable skipper will inform you of the fascinating geology of the alps and the glaciers that created the lake as you travel along its sparkling waters.

Trip includes a 1.5+ hour freedom walk on the island.

Note: Christmas Day Mou Waho Island Tour includes a Xmas picnic and will run a bit longer so we can all celebrate together.

 

What makes this tour unique is that we embrace the environment/Kaitiakitanga we are protectors and guardians of the land and reducing carbon emissions through e-biking and combine past (Māori history) and present (wines of Wanaka).
Along this E-Bike tour you will get an insight into the Māori footprint and history from many hundreds of years ago of the beautiful Otago region along with combining the wonderful present being the beautiful wines of this region. To give you the authentic New Zealand experience in the beautiful Central Otago, South Island region.

See all the highlights of New Zealand's scenic South Island on this five-day guided sightseeing tour. Travel by coach from Christchurch to Queenstown, experience the majesty of Milford Sound, view the glacier at Franz Josef and travel aboard the famous TranzAlpine Express train. Highlights include Mount Cook, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Haast Past, Franz Joseph and the incredible TranzAlpine Rail Journey

You won’t find this once-in-a-lifetime hike on any map or tour guide. Walk the high road into our dramatic mountain range and tower over the deep blues of Lake Wanaka. Explore the spectacular scenery, succumb to the comforts of our four-wheel drive and let our expert guide pass on tips and tales of our local flora and fauna. This exclusive hike is suitable for all ages and abilities, but on these wide-open private trails the only passers-by will be of the four-legged variety.

Picturesque mountains, deep fiords and icy glaciers - this is New Zealand's South Island. See for yourself on a four-day independent tour highlighting this scenic region. Travel by coach from Christchurch to Queenstown and up the West Coast to Greymouth before a return to Christchurch. View Franz Josef glacier and experience Milford Sound.

Lake Cruise and Mou Waho Island Nature Walk

 
• A “must see” in Wanaka, this cruise to the remote and magical Mou Waho Island nature reserve, is predator free and home to the rare and  flightless Buff Weka, (extinct on mainland NZ)
• Optional one hour return guided bush walk included, taking you up to reveal the island’s secret- a lake right on top of the island!
• “High Tea” overlooking both these lakes, and the panorama of the spectacular scenery of the Southern Alps spread out before us.
• The option to plant a native tree on the island as part of this eco-experience is also a unique.
• Morning or afternoon tea supplied.
• Departs 9.00am and 1.30pm, allow 4 hours.

If you are looking to include New Zealand Māori culture and a Welcome to Wānaka/Queenstown and to your special day this Māori welcome is a unique and special memory to include in your wedding day.

Because it is personalised we can discuss what best suits your needs, from experience it is ideally suited prior to the Bride, Groom and Wedding party entering the reception, or at a gathering with all guests and family prior to the wedding day itself. The Bridge and Groom get a bone carving and the guests and wedding party get an experience they will remember in your wedding forever.

Cruise to unique Mou Waho Island for a guided nature walk to a natural glacial lake on top of the island . Once aboard our fast lake cruiser, guests can relax in comfort and enjoy a 30 minute cruise among spectacular mountain scenery with commentary on local history, geology and culture. Once you reach the island you will take a guided walk to the island summit and outstanding photo opportunities.

Relax with a glass of chilled local wine as you bask in the evening light on the lake!

This one hour cruise has one local wine or beer included in the ticket and is a great way to see the lake scenery before your evening meal.  The cruise is fully licensed so further drinks can be purchased on board for just $6.

During you flight you will have 360 degree view of the whole area. The township of Wanaka is surrounded by the mountains of the Southern Alps and by Mt. Aspiring National Park. You will be stunned by the beauty of Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea, New Zealand's ninth largest lake. The unspoiled natural beauty of the Wanaka region is an unforgettable experience.

Ride on possibly the best 1-day bike ride in New Zealand with our exclusive Hawea River Track adventure. We've crafted a unique experience by combining three different tracks, inventing a great ride that others now emulate.
This leisurely exploration of Wanaka's scenic wonders offers stunning views along the gentle riverside track, showcasing the Upper Clutha's natural beauty. Join us for a pickup at 9 am, 11 am, or 2 pm from your accommodation. A 15-minute drive takes you to the wild and beautiful Lake Hawea, where you'll cruise along the Hawea River Track on an easy 30 km ride back to Wanaka town. A year-round delight, this classic Wanaka ride includes a strategic stop at Wanaka's best bakery for coffee and pastries. Once back in Wanaka town, just let us know, and we'll ensure you get a safe ride home. Experience the pinnacle of New Zealand's biking adventures, combining innovation and breathtaking landscapes for a day to remember

This is the most popular cruise when time is limited, the Ruby Island Cruise is a great way to explore the outstanding scenery of Lake Wanaka, New Zealand in just over 1-Hour.

Guests will enjoy a guided tour of the island with many photo opportunities on this small-group tour. The grade is easy and suitable for children and seniors as well.

Enjoy a 2 hour small group cruise and nature walk to Stevensons island. Once aboard the luxury catamaran, guests will relax in comfort and enjoy a 45 minute cruise among spectacular mountain scenery followed by a guided tour to the island summit with outstanding photo opportunities. Once back to your vessel enjoy complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits while you cruise back to Wanaka. Licensed bar with happy hour prices available as well.